Blueberry Cloud Jello Salad: Creamy, Fruity & Perfect for Potlucks

📜 Introduction

Creamy Blueberry Cloud Salad has long held a nostalgic place in American culinary history. First popularized in the early 1900s, these colorful, gelatin-based dishes became staples of 1950s potlucks, church suppers, and family holiday spreads. What began as a novelty turned into a movement, especially in the South and Midwest, where every gathering seemed to feature a vibrant, fruity blueberry jello salad nestled in a 9×13 glass dish. 💒🫐

Among these retro classics, the Blueberry Cloud Jello Salad stands out. With its deep purple hue, fluffy cream cheese layer, and light Cool Whip topping, this creamy blueberry dessert salad delivers layers of comfort in every bite. Its texture — cool, smooth, and slightly tangy — is what gives it the nickname “cloud.” It’s both eye-catching and surprisingly satisfying, making it the perfect potluck jello salad for Easter brunches, Sunday suppers, or nostalgic-themed parties.

This old-school favorite also goes by names like blueberry gelatin salad, blueberry pineapple jello, and even congealed salad blueberry in Southern recipe boxes. The base of blueberry jello salad often includes crushed pineapple and softened cream cheese, giving it a sweet yet slightly tart flavor that’s incredibly addictive.

Today, this old-fashioned jello salad remains beloved across the USA 🇺🇸, particularly in the South and Midwest. It’s also popular in Canada 🇨🇦, the UK 🇬🇧, and anywhere nostalgia is celebrated. Easy to make, requiring no baking, and holding up beautifully in the fridge — this jello salad recipe has stood the test of time.

Whether you’re reviving a handwritten family recipe or discovering the magic of this dish for the first time, Blueberry Cloud Jello Salad brings joyful simplicity and creamy charm to any table.

👉 Want more delicious blasts from the past? Check out my Vintage Potluck Salad Recipes — perfect for holidays, picnics, and church gatherings.

7 Reasons to Love This Creamy Blueberry Cloud Salad

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• Author: Donald Anderson
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This creamy Blueberry Cloud Salad is the ultimate retro dessert for potlucks! Fruity, fluffy, and irresistibly sweet — a classic made easy.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 can (21 oz) blueberry pie filling
• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
• 2 packages (3 oz each) blackberry or blueberry gelatin
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping
• 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)

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Instructions

1. Dissolve gelatin in boiling water; mix in pineapple (with juice) and blueberry pie filling.
2. Pour into dish and refrigerate until firm (about 2 hours).
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, fold in whipped topping, and spread over set gelatin.
4. Sprinkle with pecans, chill for another hour before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes / 3 hours chill time
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-bake
• Cuisine: American

🛠️ What You’ll Need

Making blueberry cloud Jello salad is as easy as it is nostalgic. You don’t need any fancy equipment — just a few mixing bowls, a good spatula, and your favorite glass dish. This dessert is all about simple prep, smart layering, and a chilled finish that turns familiar ingredients into something show-stopping. 🥄❄️

🍽️ Essential Tools

To get started, gather the following:

• 9×13-inch glass baking dish – the classic choice for serving and showcasing layers
• (Optional) Trifle bowl – for a fancier presentation
• 2–3 mixing bowls – for Jello, fruit base, and cream topping
• Hand mixer or whisk – to blend the cream cheese layer until silky smooth
• Spatula or spoon – for folding and layering

📌 Presentation Tip: Use a clear dish to show off the layers — the vibrant purple base and fluffy white topping make it visually striking.

🧊 Prep Tips for Best Results

• Soften your cream cheese to room temperature for easier mixing
• Chill your mixing bowl before whipping the topping for extra fluffiness
• Prepare the Jello base first — it needs at least 2 hours to set before layering

You’ll find this is the kind of dessert that travels well, holds up beautifully in the fridge, and always disappears from the buffet table.

Love layered desserts? You’ll adore our Layered Strawberry Matcha Tiramisu — fruity, creamy, and just as irresistible.

🧁 Ingredients for Blueberry Cloud Jello Salad

This blueberry cloud Jello salad is built on a few pantry staples, but the result is anything but basic. The rich, fruity grape and blueberry base is topped with a fluffy, tangy cream layer — creating that signature “cloud” effect that makes this retro dish so memorable. 🫐☁️

🧾 Main Ingredients

Here’s all you need to whip up this vibrant, creamy, no-bake treat:

• 2 packages (3 oz each) grape Jello – forms the vibrant purple base
• 2 cups boiling water – ensures the gelatin fully dissolves for a smooth, set texture
• 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained – adds juicy sweetness and texture
• 1 can (21 oz) blueberry pie filling – the star fruit that gives this salad its name
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened – blends smoothly into the topping for a rich and creamy consistency
• 1 cup sour cream – brings a subtle tang that perfectly offsets the dessert’s sweetness
• 1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip – brings light, airy texture and a smooth, fluffy finish to the topping
• Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts – adds crunch and a rich, nutty finish to each bite

📌 Flavor Tip: The combination of grape Jello and blueberry pie filling creates a unique depth of berry flavor — sweet, tart, and a little floral.

🫐 Optional Add-Ins

Want to take it up a notch? Try these easy enhancements:

• Fresh blueberries – perfect for garnishing or gently folding into the topping for bursts of juicy flavor
• Crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers – ideal as a base layer or a sweet, crunchy sprinkle on top
• Lemon zest – brightens up the cream layer with a citrus kick

🍴 Substitution Notes

• Substitute with raspberry Jello for a slightly tangier twist and a vibrant flavor change
• Opt for low-fat cream cheese and light Cool Whip to enjoy a lighter version with fewer calories but all the flavor
• Try vegan whipped topping and cream cheese for a dairy-free version

Craving more Cool Whip desserts? Browse our No-Bake Cool Whip Desserts for inspiration.

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

This blueberry cloud Jello salad is a simple, no-bake recipe that comes together in three easy stages: fruity base, creamy topping, and chill time. It’s as fun to make as it is to serve — and even easier to enjoy. Let’s break it down so every layer turns out perfectly fluffy and flavorful. 🫐🥄❄️

🍇 Step 1: Prepare the Jello Base

1. In a large mixing bowl, dissolve 2 (3 oz) packages of grape Jello in 2 cups of boiling water. Stir until fully dissolved.
2. Add 1 can (20 oz) drained crushed pineapple and 1 can (21 oz) blueberry pie filling. Stir gently to combine.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch glass dish (or a trifle bowl for layered presentation).
4. Chill in the refrigerator for 2–3 hours, or until the Jello is completely firm and set to perfection.

📌 Tip: Make sure the Jello is firm before adding the topping, or it may mix unevenly.

🍰 Step 2: Mix the Cream Layer

1. In a separate bowl, use a hand mixer or whisk to beat 1 package (8 oz) softened cream cheese and 1 cup sour cream until smooth and creamy.
2. Gently fold in 1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip until fluffy and well combined.

📌 Texture Tip: For the smoothest topping, soften the cream cheese thoroughly before mixing and fold gently to preserve airiness.

🧊 Step 3: Assemble & Chill

1. Once the Jello base is set, carefully spoon the cream topping over the fruit layer. Gently use a spatula to spread the topping evenly, being careful not to disrupt the set Jello layer beneath.
2. Top with fresh blueberries, a sprinkle of chopped pecans, or crushed graham crackers for extra flavor and texture, if you like.
3. Chill for a minimum of 1 additional hour to ensure the topping is perfectly firm and ready to serve.

📌 Serving Tip: Use a large spoon or sharp-edged spatula to serve clean squares — or scoop into dessert cups for easy portioning at parties.

Love creamy layers? You’ll also enjoy our Biscoff Tiramisu — a rich, no-bake dessert with spiced cookie crunch.

🧮 Nutrition Score (Approx. per Serving)

While this Blueberry Cloud Jello Salad leans into indulgent, retro charm, it still offers a relatively light treat compared to dense baked desserts like pies or cakes. This creamy blueberry dessert salad delivers a sweet, nostalgic flavor with every spoonful — and thanks to its no-bake nature, it’s perfect for summer potlucks and reunions. 🍇🥄💜

The foundation, crafted with blueberry jello and crushed pineapple, brings vibrant fruity notes, while the cream cheese and whipped topping layer delivers a silky, cloud-like finish on top. It’s a classic example of how an old-fashioned jello salad can feel decadent without being overly heavy.

📊 Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving – about ¾ cup)

• Calories: ~210
• Total Fat: 10 tbsp
• Saturated Fat: 6 tbsp
• Carbohydrates: 28 tbsp
• Sugars: 21 tbsp
• Protein: 2 tbsp
• Sodium: 115 mg

The natural sweetness is delivered by the blend of grape gelatin and blueberry-pineapple jello, while the smooth, airy texture comes from the combination of cream cheese and Cool Whip that gives this crowd-pleaser its signature fluff.

💡 Clever Swaps for a Slimmed-Down Blueberry Jello Treat

If you’re looking to lighten things up, this jello salad recipe is flexible:

• Opt for Neufchâtel or low-fat cream cheese to keep the base light and wholesome while still delivering that rich, creamy texture.
• Swap regular whipped topping for lite Cool Whip
• Choose sugar-free Jello and no-sugar-added blueberry pie filling to cut back on sugar while keeping all the fruity flavor intact.
• Use plant-based substitutes like agar-agar, dairy-free cream cheese, and vegan whipped topping to create a fully vegan blueberry gelatin salad

📌 Pro Tip: Serve in smaller ½ cup portions to keep your serving calorie-conscious. This blueberry cloud Jello salad is rich and creamy, so a little really does go a long way.

Looking for another light, fruity dessert? Try my Frozen Yogurt Bark with Berries — refreshing, protein-packed, and naturally sweetened with fruit.

🍽️ Serving & Storage Tips

This blueberry cloud Jello salad is the kind of dish that brings people back for seconds — not just for its sweet flavor, but for its dreamy texture and retro appeal. Whether you’re planning a church picnic, baby shower, or Sunday dinner, this old-fashioned Jello salad is simple to prep, stunning to serve, and perfect for making ahead. 🍇🍴❄️

🍽️ When to Serve Blueberry Jello Salad

This creamy blueberry dessert salad fits just about any festive or casual occasion:

• Easter brunches and springtime luncheons
• Bridal and baby showers — serve in mini parfait cups
• Church potlucks and summer BBQ spreads
• Make-ahead holiday desserts or family reunion favorites
• Pair it with Southern staples like fried chicken, baked ham, or pulled pork

Because this Jello salad recipe holds its shape and chills beautifully, it’s perfect for buffet-style meals and picnic tables. If you’re planning a themed event, use a clear trifle bowl or individual serving cups for a layered, show-stopping presentation.

📌 Presentation Tip: For a fancy touch, spoon the blueberry gelatin salad into clear plastic cups and garnish with a fresh blueberry and mint leaf. It’s a charming way to elevate this potluck Jello salad.

🧊 How to Store Cream Cheese Jello Salad

Thanks to its chilled nature and congealed consistency, blueberry pineapple Jello dishes like this one store wonderfully:

• Keep covered in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Avoid freezing — it disrupts the texture of the gelatin and cream cheese layer
• Lightly stir or fluff the topping with a spoon before serving leftovers to restore its airy texture.
• Cover with plastic wrap or store in a sealed container to retain moisture and keep the dessert from drying out.

📌 Leftover Tip: Store in small mason jars for grab-and-go dessert cups throughout the week — an easy, delightful snack inspired by congealed salad blueberry recipes from decades past.

Craving more retro treats with fruity flair? Try my Blueberry Ricotta Breakfast Cake — just as fluffy, fruity, and ready for any potluck!

🔀 Variations & Flavor Ideas

One of the most delightful parts of making Blueberry Cloud Jello Salad is how endlessly customizable it is. With a few creative twists, you can transform this old-fashioned Jello salad into something fresh while preserving its creamy, retro charm. Whether you’re hosting a potluck or just craving a new take on your favorite blueberry Jello salad, these ideas will inspire. 🌈🫐🍒

🍒 Fruity Flavor Alternatives for Blueberry Jello Salad

Looking to switch up the fruit or color of your Jello salad recipe? These variations keep things exciting while still capturing that nostalgic, cloud-like texture:

• Try raspberry or cherry Jello in place of grape for a red-tinted version of this blueberry gelatin salad
• Swap in cherry pie filling for a bold flavor, or use it with chocolate Cool Whip for a black forest-inspired twist
• Add mandarin oranges, chopped bananas, or strawberries for an extra layer of fruitiness
• Replace the traditional filling with crushed mango or peach slices to give the blueberry pineapple Jello vibe a tropical lift

📌 Flavor Pairing Tip: Always match or complement your Jello and pie filling flavors (e.g., raspberry Jello with raspberry pie filling) for a balanced, colorful congealed salad blueberry variation.

🍰 Creative Topping Ideas for Cream Cheese Jello Salad

The fluffy top layer of this creamy blueberry dessert salad is a blank canvas for fun textures and flavors:

• Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes for a tropical flair
• Mix in mini marshmallows for extra pillowy softness
• Layer crushed pretzels or graham cracker crumbs for sweet-salty crunch
• Garnish with lemon zest or white chocolate curls for brightness

You can even turn this into a layered potluck Jello salad trifle, alternating Jello, cream cheese, and fruit in a tall glass dish.

🌱 Vegan-Friendly Blueberry Cloud Jello Salad

Adapting this recipe to suit dairy-free or vegan diets is easier than you think:

• Use vegan cream cheese and coconut whipped topping in place of traditional ingredients
• Substitute standard gelatin with plant-based gelatin or agar-agar
• Replace blueberry pie filling with a homemade fruit compote of blueberries simmered with maple syrup

📌 Texture Tip: Vegan gelatins can be softer, so firm up your base layer a bit more to support the cream cheese topping.

Looking for more berry-packed treats? Try our Ube Crinkle Cookies — colorful, chewy, and perfect alongside creamy desserts.

❓ FAQs About Blueberry Cloud Jello Salad

📝 Conclusion

Blueberry Cloud Jello Salad is more than just a dessert — it’s a delicious piece of Americana. With its fruity base, creamy topping, and fluffy texture, it captures everything we love about vintage potluck dishes: it’s colorful, comforting, and easy to prepare. 💜🫐✨

This no-bake classic brings together the nostalgia of mid-century Jello creations with a modern touch of tangy cream cheese and airy Cool Whip. Whether you’re serving it for Easter, a baby shower, or a summer BBQ, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s also make-ahead friendly, customizable, and just as welcome on a buffet as it is at a backyard table.

From the moment your spoon hits that jiggly, jewel-toned layer of grape and blueberry to the final bite of cloud-like topping, you’ll understand why this salad has stood the test of time.

So go ahead — revive that retro recipe box, grab your glass dish, and whip up this blueberry Jello salad with pride. And don’t forget to tag your creations online or leave a comment to share your own family twist! 🥄💬

Looking to round out your retro dessert table? Don’t miss our Sticky Toffee Chia Pudding — a modern-meets-vintage sweet you’ll love just as much.