Cranberry Mold
A vibrant, fruity cranberry mold combining the tartness of cranberry sauce with the sweetness of pineapple and mandarin oranges. Enhanced with nuts and orange zest, this gelatin dessert is perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions, offering a refreshing and colorful addition to any table.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the orange juice and crushed pineapple juice with enough water to make 1 1/4 cups.
- Dissolve the raspberry jello in 1 cup boiling water.
- Add the orange rind and the prepared juices to the dissolved jello.
- Crush the cranberry sauce with a fork and add it to the mixture.
- Add the crushed pineapple and orange sections to the mixture.
- Chill until slightly thickened.
- Add the chopped nuts and orange sections.
- Pour the mixture into a mold and chill until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant flavor, use freshly squeezed orange juice instead of bottled. You can substitute walnuts for the nuts if you prefer a different texture. If you want to reduce sugar, consider using sugar-free raspberry jello. Ensure the jello is fully dissolved before adding other ingredients to avoid clumps. This cranberry mold can be made a day in advance for easier entertaining.
Serving Suggestions
This cranberry mold makes a beautiful centerpiece for holiday gatherings and pairs beautifully with dishes like roast turkey or ham. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or as a part of a buffet spread. For a festive touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves or additional orange zest before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply allow it to come to room temperature; avoid microwaving as it may alter the texture. If desired, you can serve it chilled or at room temperature, depending on your preference.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Mold contains roughly 196 calories, with 3g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (19% of the Daily Value).
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 make this recipe vegan?
Yes, to make this cranberry mold vegan, ensure that the jello is plant-based, as some brands may contain gelatin. You can find vegan gelatin substitutes to achieve a similar texture without using animal products. Additionally, all other ingredients listed are naturally vegan.
How long does it take for the mold to set?
Typically, the cranberry mold takes about 4-6 hours to chill until firm in the refrigerator. For best results, prepare it the night before serving. This allows ample time for the flavors to meld and the gelatin to fully set, giving you a perfect mold.
Can I add other fruits to the mold?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other fruits such as diced apples, grapes, or berries. Just ensure they are properly drained if using canned fruit. Adding a variety of textures will enhance the overall flavor and visual appeal of your cranberry mold.
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).