Cranberry Dessert
A vibrant and creamy cranberry dessert combining tart cranberries, sweet pineapple, and marshmallows, all folded into a fluffy Dream Whip base. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a refreshing treat, it offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that appeal to both fruit and dessert lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cherry jello with 1 cup hot juice from the drained pineapple and water, if needed.
- Add marshmallows, cranberries, drained pineapple, chopped walnuts, and Dream Whip.
- Optionally, add a small, chopped apple for extra flavor and texture.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding extra Dream Whip or using a whipped cream alternative. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the mini marshmallows with a sugar-free version. For added flavor, try incorporating a small, chopped apple along with the other ingredients. This dessert can also be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight.
Serving Suggestions
This cranberry dessert is perfect as a festive side dish or a sweet end to any meal. It pairs beautifully with savory dishes like Crocked Swiss Steak or can be a refreshing addition to a brunch spread. For an extra touch, garnish with a sprinkle of chopped walnuts or serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture, avoid freezing this dessert as the marshmallows may become soggy upon thawing. When ready to serve, give it a good stir to reincorporate the ingredients, and it will be just as delicious as when first made.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Dessert contains roughly 1318 calories, with 22g protein, 148g carbohydrates, and 81g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (64% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (56% of the Daily Value), and protein (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. It also contributes 16g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 a different flavor of jello?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of jello such as raspberry or strawberry for a unique twist. Each flavor will bring a different taste profile, so feel free to get creative based on your preferences and what you have on hand.
How can I make this dessert vegan?
To make this dessert vegan, substitute the Dream Whip with a plant-based whipped topping and ensure the jello used is vegan-friendly, as some brands contain gelatin derived from animal products. Additionally, use a vegan marshmallow alternative for a completely plant-based version.
Can I add other fruits to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can enhance the fruitiness by adding other fruits like sliced bananas, fresh berries, or diced apples. Just make sure to balance the sweetness and acidity of the additional fruits with the rest of the ingredients for the best flavor.
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).