Cranberry Fruit Mold
A vibrant and refreshing cranberry fruit mold that combines tangy cranberry sauce with crisp apples and oranges. Perfect for festive occasions or as a cool, fruity dessert, it appeals to those who enjoy sweet and tart flavors with a colorful presentation. Suitable for family gatherings and holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the fruit jello in boiling water.
- Mash the jellied cranberry sauce and add it to the dissolved jello.
- Stir until smooth and add 1 cup of cold water.
- Chill until the mixture thickens.
- Fold in the diced peeled apples and oranges.
- Pour into a 6-cup mold and chill until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the jellied cranberry sauce is well mashed before incorporating it into the jello. You can substitute the fruit jello with a sugar-free variety for a lighter option. Additionally, adding crushed pineapple or walnuts can enhance the flavor and texture. Remember to use chilled water to help the mixture set faster.
Serving Suggestions
This cranberry fruit mold makes a delightful side dish or dessert for holiday meals, pairing beautifully with roasted turkey or ham. It can also be served alongside other festive dishes like 14-Day Sweet Pickles for a refreshing contrast. Garnish with mint leaves for an elegant touch before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cranberry fruit mold in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To serve, simply cut it into slices and enjoy cold. Avoid freezing, as the texture may not hold up well after thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Fruit Mold contains roughly 151 calories, with 2g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g 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 fresh fruit instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh diced apples and oranges in this recipe. Just make sure to peel and dice them properly, and consider adding them just before the mold sets to retain their texture.
How long does it take for the mold to set?
Typically, the cranberry fruit mold takes about 4-6 hours to fully set in the refrigerator. For quicker results, you can chill it in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, but keep an eye on it to prevent freezing.
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this recipe can be made vegan by using plant-based jello alternatives. Check the ingredients on the jello packaging to ensure it meets vegan standards, as some brands may contain gelatin.
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).