Cranberry Jello
Cranberry Jello is a vibrant and refreshing dish that combines tart cranberries with sweet cherry Jell-O, creating a delightful balance of flavors. The addition of crushed pineapple, crisp apples, and crunchy nuts makes it a perfect side dish for holiday gatherings or a festive potluck.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook cranberries in water on high until all cranberries pop.
- Add Jell-O and sugar.
- Add pineapple, apples, and nuts.
- Chill.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh cranberries and ensure they are fully popped when cooked. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar to 1 cup. You can substitute walnuts for the nuts if desired. To add a unique flavor, consider incorporating a splash of orange juice or zest. This dish can also be made vegan by using a plant-based gelatin alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this vibrant cranberry Jello as a refreshing side dish at holiday gatherings or family dinners. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats and can complement dishes like Hot Cider Dressing For Spinach Salad. For an added touch, garnish with fresh mint or a dollop of whipped cream. This dish is also delightful alongside American recipes featuring turkey or ham.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors will continue to meld as it sits. If you need to reheat, do so gently in a microwave, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. This dish is best enjoyed chilled, so consider serving it cold even after reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Jello contains roughly 305 calories, with 1g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g 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 frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries if fresh ones are unavailable. Just ensure to thaw and drain them well before cooking to avoid excess moisture. The cooking time may be slightly longer, so monitor closely until they pop.
How long does it take for the Jello to set?
After chilling, the Jello typically takes about 4 to 6 hours to set completely. For best results, prepare it the night before and allow it to set overnight in the refrigerator. This ensures a firm texture that's easy to slice.
Can I add other fruits to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other fruits like diced pears, mandarin oranges, or even shredded coconut. Just keep the total amount similar to maintain the right consistency. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish to your liking.
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).