What ingredients do I need to make a classic cranberry jello salad?

To make a classic cranberry jello salad, you'll need cranberry-flavored gelatin, boiling water, cold water or crushed ice, canned whole cranberry sauce, miniature marshmallows, crushed pineapple (drained), and chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans. Mix the gelatin with boiling water until dissolved, then add cold water or ice to help it set. After it starts to thicken, fold in the cranberry sauce, marshmallows, pineapple, and nuts. Chill in the refrigerator until firm, usually about 3-4 hours.

How do I prevent my cranberry jello salad from becoming too watery?

To keep your cranberry jello salad from becoming watery, make sure to thoroughly drain the canned pineapple before adding it to the mixture, as excess liquid can cause the salad to weep. Also, use the recommended amount of gelatin and allow the salad to firm up completely in the refrigerator before serving. Avoid stirring the salad too vigorously once it starts to set, as this can break the gelatin structure and create water separation.

Can I prepare cranberry jello salad in advance for holiday meals?

Yes, cranberry jello salad is an excellent make-ahead dish for holiday meals. Prepare it at least 4 hours before serving to allow the gelatin to set completely. It can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator to save time on the day of your event. Just keep it tightly covered to prevent it from absorbing any other odors in the fridge and stir gently before serving if some liquid accumulates on top.

What variations can I try with cranberry jello salad?

There are several easy variations to customize your cranberry jello salad. You can swap out cranberry gelatin for raspberry or cherry flavors, add fresh fruit like orange segments or chopped apples for added texture, or substitute nuts with shredded coconut for a tropical twist. For a creamy version, fold in some whipped cream or sour cream just before the gelatin sets. Each variation adds a unique flavor without changing the basic preparation.

Is cranberry jello salad healthy to include in my diet?

Cranberry jello salad can be part of a balanced diet but should be enjoyed in moderation. It contains fruit, providing some vitamins and fiber, especially when using whole cranberry sauce and pineapple. However, it also includes sugar from the gelatin mix and marshmallows, which can add calories without significant nutrients. To make it healthier, choose sugar-free gelatin and reduce or skip marshmallows, adding more fresh fruit to increase nutritional value.

Cranberry Jello Salad Recipes With Fresh Tangy Flavors

Name: Cranberry Jello Salad
Prep time: 2 h 10 min
Total time: 2 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 packages (3 ounces each) of cherry, raspberry, or cranberry-flavored gelatin; 1 1/2 cups boiling water; 20 ounces crushed pineapple (including juice) Adds tropical sweetness and moisture; 1 can (15 ounces) whole cranberry sauce or 2 cups homemade cranberry sauce; 3/4 cup chopped pecans; 3/4 cup cranberry or apple juice; 8 ounces softened cream cheese Creates a smooth, creamy layer; 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for the topping); 1 cup sour cream (for the topping); 1/4 cup chopped pecans (for garnishing the topping); 2 packages (3 ounces each) of cranberry-flavored gelatin Provides the jello structure and sweet flavor; 20 ounces crushed pineapple (including juice) Adds tropical sweetness and moisture; 8 ounces softened cream cheese Creates a smooth, creamy layer

Description

🍒 Enjoy a sweet and tangy dessert that’s perfect for holidays and special occasions, combining fresh fruit flavors with a creamy topping.
🍍 This Cranberry Jello Salad offers a refreshing and festive treat that’s easy to prepare and sure to delight your guests.

Ingredients

Scale

2 packages (3 ounces each) of cherry, raspberry, or cranberry-flavored gelatin

1 1/2 cups boiling water

20 ounces crushed pineapple (including juice) Adds tropical sweetness and moisture

1 can (15 ounces) whole cranberry sauce or 2 cups homemade cranberry sauce

3/4 cup chopped pecans

3/4 cup cranberry or apple juice

8 ounces softened cream cheese Creates a smooth, creamy layer

1/2 cup powdered sugar (for the topping)

1 cup sour cream (for the topping)

1/4 cup chopped pecans (for garnishing the topping)

2 packages (3 ounces each) of cranberry-flavored gelatin Provides the jello structure and sweet flavor

20 ounces crushed pineapple (including juice) Adds tropical sweetness and moisture

8 ounces softened cream cheese Creates a smooth, creamy layer

Instructions

1-First, pour the gelatin into boiling water and let it dissolve completely.

2-Next, stir in the pineapple, cranberry sauce, pecans, and juice.

3-Then, pour into a dish and refrigerate for 2 hours.

4-After that, make and add the creamy topping.

5-Finally, garnish and chill before serving.

Notes

🥄 Adjust juice amount to make the gelatin firmer or softer.
🥂 Substitute ginger ale for juice for a fizzy twist.
❄️ Store salad in the refrigerator and consume within two days for best taste and freshness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Category: Dessert
Method: Mixing and chilling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 220
Fat: 11 g
Carbohydrates: 29 g
Protein: 3 g

Keywords: cranberry jello salad, tangy dessert, holiday salad, creamy jello salad