No-Bake Cranberry Yum Yum is a delightful treat that’s perfect for the holidays or any time you want something sweet and refreshing without turning on the oven. It’s a creamy, tangy, and fruity dessert that combines tart cranberries, sweet whipped topping, and crunchy ingredients like pecans or coconut, all mixed together in one bowl. The best part? It’s super simple to make and doesn’t require any baking at all.
I love making this dessert because it saves me so much time and still impresses everyone who tries it. The contrast between the creamy texture and the little bursts of cranberry flavor is one of my favorite parts. Sometimes I like to add a bit of orange zest or swap in different nuts for a little twist, but the classic version is always a crowd-pleaser.
When I serve No-Bake Cranberry Yum Yum, I usually chill it for a few hours so the flavors really come together, then spoon it into cute little bowls or glasses. It’s a great ending to a big meal or a nice treat on a chilly afternoon. I’ve shared this recipe at family gatherings and potlucks, and it always gets asked for again—something about that creamy, cranberry combo just keeps people coming back for more!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberries: Fresh or frozen both work well here. If fresh aren’t available, frozen cranberries are a great substitute and just as tasty. For a sweeter note, you could mix in some dried cranberries too.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess and tang to the dessert. If you want a lighter version, try using a low-fat or Neufchâtel cream cheese. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Whipped Topping: Cool Whip or similar whipped topping gives this dessert its fluffy texture. For a dairy-free option, coconut whipped cream works nicely. Just fold gently to keep it light.
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These create a crunchy base and topping. If you don’t have graham crackers, digestive biscuits or vanilla wafer crumbs can be used. Just adjust the sweetness accordingly.
Butter: Melted butter binds the crumbs for crust and topping. If you prefer, you can swap it for coconut oil for a subtle flavor change or softened margarine for a dairy-free choice.
How Do You Get the Perfect Layers in No-Bake Cranberry Yum Yum?
Layering is the key to this dessert’s look and texture. Here’s how to get nice, even layers without mixing them up:
- Press the crust firmly: When adding the graham cracker crumbs and butter to the pan, use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to press it down tightly and evenly.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture gently: Use a spatula to smooth it evenly over the crust. Be careful not to press too hard to avoid mixing layers.
- Cool the cranberry topping: Make sure your cranberry mixture is fully cooled before spreading it over the cream layer. Warm topping will melt the creamy layer and muddle your layers.
- Sprinkle the topping crumbs lightly: Don’t press the last crumb topping into the cranberries. A gentle sprinkle adds crunch without mixing layers.
Chilling overnight really helps the layers set and firm up, making the dessert easy to cut and serve clean squares. Patience here pays off!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan – perfect for cooking the cranberry mixture evenly without burning.
- Mixing bowls – you’ll need a couple for combining the crust and cream layers separately.
- Hand mixer or whisk – makes beating the cream cheese smooth and folding in the whipped topping easier.
- 9×9 inch baking pan – a good size to layer and chill your dessert for easy slicing.
- Spatula – great for spreading layers evenly without mixing them together.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap cranberries for raspberries or strawberries for a different fruit twist and a sweeter taste.
- Mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the crust or sprinkle on top for added crunch and nuttiness.
- Stir in a teaspoon of orange zest to the cream cheese layer for a fresh, citrusy note that brightens the flavors.
- Add a layer of crushed ginger snaps to the crust for some warm spice and extra texture.
No-Bake Cranberry Yum Yum
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries (plus a few extra whole cranberries for garnish)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 cups whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for sprinkling or mixing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare and cook the cranberry topping, plus additional time to assemble. You’ll want to chill the dessert for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow everything to set perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cranberry Layer:
In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the cranberries pop and the mixture thickens into a jam-like consistency, about 10 to 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
2. Make the Crust:
Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter in a bowl until the mixture feels like wet sand. Press about two-thirds of this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×9 inch pan to create the crust.
3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped topping until creamy and well combined.
4. Assemble the Layers:
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust in the pan. Once the cranberry mixture has cooled, spread it evenly over the cream cheese. Sprinkle the remaining graham cracker crumbs on top for a bit of crunch.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for the best results. Before serving, garnish with whole cranberries and chopped nuts if you like. Cut into squares and enjoy your creamy, tart, and crunchy treat!
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen cranberries work perfectly! Just thaw them before cooking to ensure an even consistency in the cranberry layer.
How Long Should I Chill the Dessert?
For the best texture and flavor, chill the dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the layers to set firmly and the flavors to meld together.
Can I Substitute the Graham Cracker Crust?
Absolutely! You can use crushed digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers as a substitute. Just keep in mind the sweetness and adjust sugar if needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dessert is best enjoyed chilled and fresh.
