Cranberry Marble Mold

Prep: 20 min Cuisine: American

A colorful, fruity gelatin mold with tart cranberry and sweet pineapple flavors, finished with creamy sour cream swirl, perfect for festive gatherings or light desserts.

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Ingredients

  • 2 (3 oz.) pkg. cherry Jell-O
  • 2 c. boiling water
  • 1 (8 3/4 oz.) crushed pineapple
  • 1 can cranberry sauce
  • 1 c. sour cream

Instructions

  1. Dissolve the cherry Jell-O in boiling water and stir in crushed pineapple.
  2. Chill the mixture until it becomes thick enough to hold its shape.
  3. Fold in cranberry sauce and sour cream into the thickened gelatin, creating a marbled effect by stirring gently.

Tips & Substitutions

For a smoother texture, ensure the boiling water is truly boiling before dissolving the cherry Jell-O. If you can't find crushed pineapple, you can substitute with diced peaches or pear for a different flavor profile. For a lighter version, consider using low-fat sour cream or yogurt instead of regular sour cream. This dish is perfect for potlucks, so browse more American recipes for additional options.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Cranberry Marble Mold chilled for the best flavor and texture. This dish pairs beautifully with Best Deviled Eggs as an appetizer or as a side with a holiday meal. For a complete spread, consider adding a fresh salad or a light protein such as turkey or chicken. It also makes a colorful addition to any brunch table.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The gelatin may become firmer over time, but it will still retain its flavor. If you want to serve it again, you can cut it into squares directly from the fridge. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture of the gelatin.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Cranberry Marble Mold contains roughly 192 calories, with 4g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.

192 kcal 10% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.3g 9% DV
Total Fat 1.6g 2% DV
Carbs 41.6g 15% DV
Fiber 2.5g 9% DV
Sugar 8.4g 17% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 132.8mg 6% DV
Potassium 193.1mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 3.8mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 32.1mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 4.6mg 5% DV
Calcium 71.3mg 5% DV
Iron 1.2mg 7% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk

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 Jell-O?

Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of Jell-O. Raspberry or strawberry would pair nicely with the cranberry and pineapple, adding a unique twist to the dish. Just remember that the flavor and color will change accordingly, but the overall concept will remain delicious.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this recipe is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat or meat byproducts. Just ensure the Jell-O brand you choose is vegetarian-friendly, as some gelatin products may contain animal-derived ingredients. Many brands now offer plant-based alternatives to traditional gelatin.

How can I make this recipe more festive?

To make this recipe more festive, consider adding chopped nuts or shredded coconut on top for garnish. You can also layer the mold in a clear dish to showcase the beautiful marbled effect. Adding seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds can enhance the presentation and flavor, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.

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).

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