cranberry gelatin salad recipe

The Best cranberry gelatin salad recipe

I’ve been making this cranberry gelatin salad recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a classic dish that originated in the Midwest, where it was often served at church potlucks and family gatherings.

The combination of tart cranberries, sweet orange juice, and creamy gelatin is a match made in heaven. I love how this recipe is so easy to make and customize to your taste.

My kids adore helping me in the kitchen, measuring out the ingredients and stirring the mixture until it’s set. We make this salad all year round, but it’s especially popular during the holidays when we’re looking for a light and refreshing side dish that’s perfect for a big family gathering.

The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can add or subtract ingredients to suit your tastes, from chopped nuts or shredded coconut to dried cranberries or even a splash of citrus zest. The key to making this recipe is using high-quality gelatin that sets properly, so be sure to choose a good brand and follow the package instructions carefully.

Once you’ve mastered this technique, you can experiment with different flavors and add-ins to create a unique salad that’s all your own. I’ve made this recipe so many times that I can practically make it with my eyes closed – but every time I serve it, I get rave reviews from my loved ones.

There’s something special about this dish that just brings people together, don’t you think? Whether you’re serving it at a casual dinner party or packing it in lunches for school or work, this cranberry gelatin salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Cranberry Gelatin Salad

4.7 from 514 votes

A classic holiday side dish combining tart cranberries with sweet gelatin and crunchy nuts. This vibrant salad is perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 25 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 180 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Salad

1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce
1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, undrained
1 package (6 oz) raspberry or cherry gelatin
1 cup boiling water
1/2 cup cold water
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
1/2 cup chopped celery (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a medium mixing bowl, pour the boiling water over the gelatin powder and whisk for 2 minutes until completely dissolved.
2The mixture should be clear with no granules visible.
3Add the cold water and stir.
4Then mix in the crushed pineapple with its juice and the whole berry cranberry sauce, breaking up any large cranberry clusters with the whisk.
5Fold in the chopped nuts and celery if using.
6Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch dish or a 6-cup gelatin mold that has been lightly sprayed with nonstick spray.
7Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until firm.
8The gelatin should be set and jiggle slightly when shaken.
9To unmold, dip the mold in warm water for 10 seconds and invert onto a serving plate.

🔧Equipment

9×13 inch baking dish or 6-cup gelatin mold
Medium mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 180 kcal🧈Total Fat: 6g💛Saturated Fat: 0.5g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 80mg🌾Total Carbs: 32g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 26g🥩Protein: 2g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use sugar-free gelatin and reduce the nuts. You can also add 1 cup of diced apples or mandarin oranges for extra texture.

Watch Video Of How Cranberry Gelatin Salad Works

This cranberry gelatin salad is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or just need a light and refreshing side dish for everyday meals. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easy it is to store and reheat – simply scoop out the desired amount into individual containers or serve straight from the mold.

If you do choose to reheat your salad, be sure to do so gently over low heat until warmed through. When serving, consider garnishing with fresh fruit or chopped nuts for added visual appeal.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Gelatin Salad

Q: What type of gelatin is best for this recipe?

I highly recommend using unflavored gelatin for this recipe, as it won’t affect the flavor of the cranberries and orange juice. You can find unflavored gelatin in most grocery stores or online.

Q: Can I use fresh or frozen cranberries instead of dried?

Yes, you can use fresh or frozen cranberries if you prefer – just be sure to thaw them first if using frozen. However, keep in mind that fresh cranberries will give your salad a slightly different texture and flavor than dried.

Q: How long does this salad need to chill before serving?

This salad needs at least 3-4 hours to chill before serving – but the longer it chills, the better it will set and hold its shape.

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this salad up to 24 hours in advance – just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until serving.

Q: What if I don’t have orange juice on hand?

No worries! You can substitute pineapple juice or grapefruit juice if you prefer – just be aware that these juices may change the flavor profile slightly.

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