cranberry jello salad recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
cranberry jello salad recipe
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The Best cranberry jello salad recipe

I’ve been making this cranberry jello salad recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a classic dish that originated in the Midwest, where jellied salads were a staple at family gatherings and potlucks.

The combination of tart cranberries, sweet pineapple, and creamy orange gelatin is a match made in heaven. My kids love helping me make it, and they can’t get enough of the colorful fruit and crunchy nuts that add texture to the dish.

This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday dinner, a summer barbecue, or just a quick weeknight meal. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make – just mix together some jello, whipped cream, and fruit, and you’re done!

The best part is that it’s actually quite healthy, considering it’s made with real fruit and not much added sugar. I like to serve it in a big bowl or individual cups for a fun twist on a traditional side dish.

My family loves when I bring this to potlucks or family gatherings because it’s always a crowd-pleaser. The best part is that it’s so versatile – you can customize it with your favorite fruits and nuts to make it your own.

I’ve even added some chopped fresh mint to give it a refreshing twist during the summer months.

Cranberry Jello Salad

Cranberry Jello Salad

4.8 from 1462 votes

A classic holiday side dish that combines tart cranberries with sweet pineapple and crunchy walnuts in a vibrant gelatin base. This retro recipe is both refreshing and festive, 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 (6 oz) package raspberry or cherry flavored gelatin
1 cup boiling water
1 (14 oz) can whole berry cranberry sauce
1 (8 oz) can crushed pineapple, undrained
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/2 cup chopped celery

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a medium mixing bowl, pour the boiling water over the gelatin powder and whisk for about 2 minutes until the gelatin is fully dissolved and the mixture is clear.
2Ensure no granules remain at the bottom of the bowl.
3Add the whole berry cranberry sauce and undrained crushed pineapple to the dissolved gelatin, stirring gently with a whisk until the cranberry sauce breaks apart and the mixture is evenly combined.
4The color should be a uniform deep red.
5Fold in the chopped walnuts and chopped celery using a rubber spatula, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.
6Refrigerate the mixture for about 1 hour or until it thickens to the consistency of unbeaten egg whites.
7Pour the thickened mixture into a lightly oiled 8-cup gelatin mold or a 9×13 inch dish, smoothing the top with the spatula.
8Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the gelatin is fully set and firm to the touch.
9To unmold, dip the mold into warm water for about 10 seconds, then invert onto a serving platter and gently lift the mold away.
10If using a dish, simply cut the salad into squares and serve chilled.

🔧Equipment

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

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 180 kcal🧈Total Fat: 6g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 95mg🌾Total Carbs: 32g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 26g🥩Protein: 3g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use sugar-free gelatin and reduced-sugar cranberry sauce. You can substitute pecans for walnuts or add 1/2 cup of diced apples for extra crunch.

Watch Video Of How Cranberry Jello Salad Works

This cranberry jello salad recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just need a quick weeknight meal. It’s incredibly easy to make and customize with your favorite fruits and nuts.

Plus, it’s surprisingly healthy considering its sweet taste! To store leftovers, simply refrigerate in an airtight container at 40°F (4°C) or below for up to 3 days.

When reheating leftovers, be sure to do so gently over low heat until the mixture is smooth and creamy once again.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cranberry Jello Salad

1.

Q: What type of jello should I use for this recipe?
A: For this recipe, you’ll want to use a plain or fruit-flavored jello mix, such as lemon or orange. Avoid using jello mixes with artificial flavors or colors.

2.

Q: Can I use fresh or frozen cranberries instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can use fresh or frozen cranberries instead of canned. Just be sure to thaw them first if using frozen.

3.

Q: How long does this salad keep in the fridge?
A: This salad will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days without spoiling. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container and refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below.

4.

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this salad ahead of time by preparing the jello mixture and refrigerating until ready to serve.

5.

Q: What other fruits can I add to this salad?
A: Some other fruits you can add to this salad include diced apples, grapes, or mandarin oranges. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different combinations!

6.

Q: Is this salad suitable for vegans?
A: No, this salad contains gelatin derived from animal products. If you’re looking for a vegan alternative, consider substituting with agar agar powder or another plant-based gelatin substitute.

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