Cranberry jello salad
Cranberry jello salad is a classic dish that blends tangy cranberries with sweet, fruity gelatin for a colorful and refreshing treat. It usually has a mix of cranberries, jello, and…
Tip: save now, cook later.Cranberry jello salad is a classic dish that blends tangy cranberries with sweet, fruity gelatin for a colorful and refreshing treat. It usually has a mix of cranberries, jello, and sometimes nuts or whipped topping, creating a fun mix of textures that’s both jiggly and creamy. It’s often a holiday favorite or a picnic crowd-pleaser because of its bright color and simple, sweet-tart flavor.
I love making cranberry jello salad because it’s so easy to pull together and always brings back happy memories of family gatherings. One of my favorite things to add is a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for a little crunch—it balances the softness perfectly. I also like to use a berry-flavored jello to mix things up and make it even more flavorful.
When I serve cranberry jello salad, I usually spoon it into a pretty bowl or dish, letting the shiny, jewel-like berries shine through. It pairs wonderfully with hearty meals like roast turkey or ham, adding a bright, fresh note to the plate. This dish always makes me smile because it feels like a little burst of holiday cheer no matter the occasion.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberry Gelatin: This is the heart of the salad, giving the dish its lovely red color and tart cranberry flavor. If cranberry gelatin isn’t available, raspberry or cherry gelatin works well, giving a similar sweetness and color.
Fresh or Frozen Cranberries: Using fresh cranberries gives a nice texture and natural tartness. Frozen cranberries are fine too and easy to keep on hand. You can also substitute with fresh pomegranate seeds for a different crunch and sweetness.
Orange Juice: Adds a citrusy brightness that complements the tart cranberries. If you don’t have orange juice, apple juice or pineapple juice can add a nice flavor twist.
Crushed Pineapple: Provides sweetness and a bit of tropical flavor. Make sure to drain it well so the salad is not watery. Canned peaches or mango can be used as alternatives if you want a different fruity note.
Chopped Nuts: Optional, but I love the crunch they add. Walnuts and pecans are classic choices here. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or toasted coconut flakes are tasty substitutes.
How Do You Make Sure the Jello Salad Sets Perfectly?
Getting the gelatin to set right is key to a beautiful cranberry jello salad. Make sure you:
- Dissolve the gelatin fully in boiling water for a smooth texture without lumps.
- Let the gelatin cool to room temperature before adding fruit—this stops the fruit from sinking or the gelatin from melting too fast.
- Stir in fruit gently to avoid breaking it down, keeping nice whole berries suspended.
- Chill the salad for at least 4 hours (overnight works great) so it firms up properly.
For easy unmolding, dip your mold in warm water briefly, then invert onto a plate. If you prefer, serve the salad straight from the bowl—still delicious and less fuss! Patience here will get you that perfect, jiggly texture that’s easy to slice and looks great on the table.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – big enough to dissolve gelatin and mix in the cranberries comfortably.
- Measuring cups – for accurate water, juice, and other liquid amounts.
- Whisk or spoon – helps dissolve the gelatin smoothly without lumps.
- Gelatin mold or glass bowl – for setting and shaping the jello salad nicely.
- Refrigerator space – to chill and set the gelatin firmly for several hours.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap cranberry gelatin for raspberry or cherry to change the flavor and color.
- Add chopped apples or grapes for a fresh, crunchy twist inside the salad.
- Mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a nice texture contrast.
- Stir whipped cream or cream cheese into the set gelatin for a creamy, richer salad.
How to Make Cranberry Jello Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (6 oz) package cranberry-flavored gelatin
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 (12 oz) bag fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup orange juice
- ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained
- Optional: ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
For Garnish:
- Whipped cream or a dollop of sour cream
- Fresh mint leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
Gathering and mixing your ingredients only takes about 15 minutes. However, the salad needs to chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours to set properly. For best results, plan to make it ahead to allow enough time for chilling.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Dissolving the Gelatin:
In a medium bowl, pour 1 cup of boiling water over the cranberry gelatin powder. Stir it well until the gelatin completely dissolves. This ensures a smooth and jiggly salad.
2. Mixing the Sweeteners and Juice:
Add 1 cup of sugar to the warm gelatin and stir until it’s fully dissolved. Then pour in the orange juice and mix everything together until combined.
3. Adding Fruit and Nuts:
Let the gelatin mixture cool to room temperature, but don’t let it start setting yet. Carefully stir in the fresh or frozen cranberries, drained crushed pineapple, and chopped nuts if you’re using them. This adds texture and bursts of flavor in every bite.
4. Setting the Salad:
Pour the mixture into a gelatin mold or a glass bowl, smoothing it out evenly. Place it in your refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours until the salad is firm and ready to serve.
5. Serving and Garnishing:
When ready, either unmold the jello salad onto a serving dish or serve it directly in the bowl. Top with a dollop of whipped cream or sour cream and garnish with fresh mint leaves for a festive and beautiful finish.
Can I Use Frozen Cranberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes! Frozen cranberries work just fine—no need to thaw them first. They’ll add a nice texture and tartness, just stir them in while the gelatin mixture is still cool but not set.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! It actually tastes better after chilling overnight. Just cover it tightly and keep it refrigerated for up to 2 days before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture may soften slightly, but it will still taste great.
Can I Use a Different Flavor of Gelatin?
Yes, feel free to swap cranberry gelatin for cherry, raspberry, or strawberry to change up the flavor—just pick one that complements the cranberries well.