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Creamy Cottage Cheese Jello Salad Recipe

Creamy Cottage Cheese Jello Salad Recipe

Olivia Brooks
This Creamy Cottage Cheese Jello Salad Recipe features cottage cheese, mandarin oranges, and whipped topping for a fluffy, fruity dessert everyone enjoys.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Whisk or spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons.
  • Rubber spatula
  • Serving bowl or dish
  • Refrigerator space

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cottage cheese small curd works best
  • 1 packet 3 oz flavored gelatin (strawberry or orange recommended)
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 cup cold water
  • 1 cup whipped topping like Cool Whip, thawed
  • 1 cup canned crushed pineapple drained
  • 1/2 cup mandarin oranges drained
  • 2 tablespoons sugar optional, adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional add-ins:

  • Mini marshmallows 1/2 cup
  • Chopped nuts for crunch
  • Fresh berries

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the gelatin

  • In a medium bowl, dissolve the gelatin powder in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir well until completely dissolved. Then add 1 cup of cold water and mix again.
  • Let it cool slightly, but do not let it set.

Step 2: Mix the base

  • In a large mixing bowl, add the cottage cheese. Stir it gently to break up large lumps and make it smooth and creamy.
  • Add vanilla extract and sugar (if using), and mix well.

Step 3: Combine gelatin and cottage cheese

  • Slowly pour the slightly cooled gelatin into the cottage cheese mixture. Stir gently to combine everything evenly.

Step 4: Add fruit

  • Fold in the crushed pineapple and mandarin oranges. Make sure they are well drained to avoid excess liquid.

Step 5: Add whipped topping

  • Now gently fold in the whipped topping. This step gives the salad its signature light, fluffy texture.
  • Be careful not to overmix—you want it airy and soft.

Step 6: Chill

  • Transfer the mixture into a serving bowl or dish. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully set and chilled.

Step 7: Serve

  • Once chilled, give it a light stir and serve cold. You can garnish with extra fruit or a dollop of whipped topping if you like.

Notes

  • Always drain canned fruit well to avoid a watery salad
  • Use small curd cottage cheese for a smoother texture
  • Let gelatin cool slightly before mixing to prevent curdling
  • Fold gently to keep the mixture fluffy
  • Chill long enough for the best consistency
Keyword Creamy Cottage Cheese Jello Salad Recipe