This fun and colorful Cranberry Jello Salad is a holiday favorite! Made with tart cranberry sauce, sweet Jello, and crunchy nuts, it’s a delightful treat that adds a splash of color to your table.
I can’t help but smile when I see this dish at family gatherings. It’s like eating dessert and salad at the same time—what’s not to love? 😄
Making this salad is super easy. Just mix, chill, and serve! I love enjoying it with turkey dinner—it really brings the flavors together!
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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cranberry Jello: This is the star of the dish! A 12 oz package of cranberry jello gives you that beautiful color and flavor. If you want a healthier option, use a sugar-free version. It still tastes great!
Cranberry Sauce: You can use either the whole berry or jellied cranberry sauce depending on your texture preference. If you’re out, a homemade cranberry sauce can work too. Just make sure it’s sweetened to taste.
Chopped Nuts: I like to add pecans for a nice crunch, but walnuts are a great substitute if you prefer them. If you’re nut-free, feel free to skip this ingredient altogether.
Apples: Diced apples add a fresh bite. My favorite are Granny Smith for their tartness, but any firm, crisp apple will do. If you’re avoiding sweet fruits, you can leave them out or swap them with another crunchy veggie.
Cream Topping: Whipped cream makes everything better! You can use store-bought whipped cream or make your own for a richer taste. For a lighter alternative, consider using yogurt.
How Do You Get the Perfect Jello Set?
The most important part of making jello salad is ensuring it sets up properly. Here are a few tips to help you succeed:
- Start with boiling water to ensure the jello fully dissolves. Stir it well until there are no granules left.
- Mix in the cranberry sauce and sugar while the jello is still warm. This helps blend the flavors nicely.
- Be patient! Allow it to chill for at least 4-6 hours or overnight for the best texture. The longer, the better.
- For an elegant look, use a mold with interesting shapes. Be sure to lightly grease it before pouring in the mixture!
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How to Make Cranberry Jello Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 1 (12 oz) package of cranberry jello
- 1 1/2 cups boiling water
- 1 (14 oz) can cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1 cup diced apples (optional)
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped (optional)
For Serving:
- 1 cup whipped cream or whipped topping
- Fresh cranberries, for garnish
- Fresh herbs (like rosemary), for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cranberry jello salad requires about 10 minutes of active prep time and needs 4-6 hours to chill and set in the refrigerator. If you can, make it the night before for the best results!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Dissolve the Jello:
Start by placing the cranberry jello in a mixing bowl. Carefully pour in 1 1/2 cups of boiling water over the jello. Use a whisk or spoon to stir it well until the jello is completely dissolved. This part is super simple!
2. Mix in Additional Ingredients:
Next, add the cranberry sauce and granulated sugar to the bowl. Mix everything together until it’s well combined, and you can’t see any lumps from the jello or sugar. If you want to add a twist, gently fold in the optional chopped pecans or walnuts, diced apples, and finely chopped celery.
3. Pour and Refrigerate:
Now, take the mixture and pour it into a decorative mold or a nice bowl. This will help make it look appealing when serving. Cover it with plastic wrap or a lid, and put it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for about 4 to 6 hours, or even overnight, until it’s set firm.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s set and ready, scoop out some portions with a spoon. Serve each portion topped with a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with fresh cranberries and a sprig of herbs like rosemary if you’d like. It’s a pretty and delicious treat, perfect as a side dish or a dessert!
Can I Use Different Flavors of Jello for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While cranberry jello is traditional, you can experiment with other flavors like raspberry or cherry for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that the overall taste and color will change, so choose flavors that complement the cranberry sauce!
How Can I Make This Salad Healthier?
If you want to lighten this recipe, try using sugar-free jello and cranberry sauce. You can also reduce the sugar or substitute it with a natural sweetener like honey or agave. Adding more diced fruits, like oranges or pears, is another great way to boost nutrition!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The jello salad keeps well, but be aware that the texture might change slightly as it sits. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again!
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Definitely! This jello salad is perfect for make-ahead prep. You can prepare it a day or two before your gathering. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve, and add the whipped cream and garnishes just before serving for the best presentation!
