Cranberry-Banana Mold
A vibrant and festive cranberry-banana mold combining tart cranberry sauce with sweet bananas and crunchy pecans. Perfect as a refreshing side or a light dessert, this colorful dish appeals to those seeking a sweet-tart flavor with added texture, suitable for holiday gatherings or casual entertaining.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the raspberry jello in boiling water.
- Add the cranberry sauce and stir until blended.
- Chill until partially thickened.
- Add sliced bananas and chopped pecans.
- Spoon into a mold and chill until firm.
- Serve on greens.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, blend the cranberry sauce before adding it to the jello mixture. If you prefer a different flavor, consider using cherry or strawberry jello instead of raspberry. For a healthier option, you could substitute the bananas with diced apples or use a low-sugar cranberry sauce to make this a Lite Dessert. Always ensure the jello is well dissolved before chilling.
Serving Suggestions
This cranberry-banana mold is delightful on its own but can be served alongside a fresh salad dressed with Rosalyn'S French Dressing for a refreshing contrast. It also pairs beautifully with Smothered Potatoes With Squash for a balanced meal. Consider garnishing with fresh mint or additional pecans for an elegant touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To serve, you can enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge. If you want to reintroduce some texture, consider letting it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving, as this can enhance the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry-Banana Mold contains roughly 151 calories, with 2g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 8g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned cranberry sauce?
While fresh cranberries can be used, they will require cooking and sweetening before incorporating them into the mold. The canned version provides a convenient and consistent flavor that complements the jello well, making it a preferred choice for this recipe.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this recipe is suitable for vegan diets as it contains no animal-derived ingredients. Just ensure that the jello used is vegan-friendly, as some brands may contain gelatin derived from animal sources. Look for agar-agar based alternatives if needed.
How long does it take for the mold to set?
The mold typically takes about 4-6 hours to set completely in the refrigerator. For best results, prepare it the night before serving, allowing ample time for it to firm up. If you’re in a hurry, chilling it in a freezer for about 30 minutes can help speed up the process.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).