Introduction

No-Bake Cranberry Yum Yum is a delightfully creamy dessert combining tangy cranberry sauce with a rich cream cheese layer on a spiced graham cracker crust. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you want a fuss-free, crowd-pleasing treat.

A square slice of layered dessert placed on a white plate with a scalloped edge, showing four clear layers: a crumbly light brown base, a thick creamy white layer with a hint of pink blending, a bright red cranberry layer mixed with white cream, and a fluffy white topping sprinkled with golden brown crumbs and pecan pieces. The top is decorated with three glossy red cranberries and small green leaves. A silver fork rests beside the dessert on the plate, all set on a coarse brown fabric over a dark wooden surface, with a white marbled background faintly visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
2 cups whipping cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract, divided
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 (14 oz.) can whole berry cranberry sauce
3 tablespoons chopped pecans

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, ground cinnamon, and melted butter. Blend with a fork until the crumbs are fully moistened.
Step 2: Set aside 1 tablespoon of the crumb mixture for topping later.
Step 3: Press the remaining crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch pan that has been sprayed with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 4: Using an electric mixer, beat together the softened cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: In a separate bowl, whip the whipping cream, granulated sugar, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Step 6: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture by hand until well combined and fluffy.
Step 7: Spread just under half of the cream cheese and whipped cream mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust.
Step 8: Stir the cranberry sauce in its can slightly to break it up, then spoon large dollops over the cream cheese layer. Carefully spread the cranberry sauce evenly across the layer.
Step 9: Spread the remaining cream cheese and whipped cream mixture gently on top of the cranberry sauce, covering it completely and evenly.
Step 10: Combine the chopped pecans with the reserved 1 tablespoon of graham cracker crumbs and sprinkle evenly over the top of the dessert.
Step 11: Cover the dish and refrigerate for several hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter option, use 1/3-less fat cream cheese without sacrificing flavor or texture.
If you prefer, substitute an 8-ounce container of Cool Whip non-dairy whipped topping for the homemade whipped cream in the cream cheese mixture.
To serve a larger crowd, double the recipe and use a 9×13-inch pan for easy scaling.

Storage

Store the dessert covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed chilled. When ready to serve, you can gently stir to refresh the texture if needed, but avoid letting it sit out too long to maintain freshness.

How to Serve

The dish is a layered dessert in a clear glass rectangular dish, showing four distinct layers. The bottom layer is a light brown crumbly base, likely a crust. Above it is a thick layer of smooth white cream. The third layer is a deep red fruit or berry sauce, evenly spread across the dessert. The top layer is another thick, smooth white cream, covered with a generous sprinkle of golden brown crushed nuts and crumbs that add texture. The dish sits on a piece of burlap on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, this no-bake dessert actually tastes better after resting overnight in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld and the layers to set firmly.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned cranberry sauce?

Canned whole berry cranberry sauce is recommended for the right texture and sweetness, but if using fresh cranberries, you’ll need to cook them with sugar and water to form a similar sauce before assembling.