Cranberry Sauce Jello
A festive and sweet cranberry Jello salad featuring cherry flavor and creamy Cool Whip, perfect for holiday gatherings and family desserts.
Ingredients
- 1 large cherry Jell-O
- 1 can jellied cranberry sauce, cold ⓘ
Instructions
- Add 1 1/2 cups boiling water to the cherry Jell-O and mix well.
- Add 1 cup cold water and chill until the mixture is soft set.
- Stir in the can of jellied cranberry sauce and about half of the Cool Whip.
- Mix well until combined.
- Add walnuts if desired.
- Chill until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use boiling water to fully dissolve the cherry Jell-O. If you want a lighter version, consider substituting the Cool Whip with a vegan whipped topping. You can also add fresh cranberries for extra texture and tartness. If walnuts aren’t your preference, chopped pecans or almonds can be a delightful alternative. This dish can be made ahead of time, making it a great addition to holiday gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cranberry Sauce Jello as a festive side dish during holiday meals, especially alongside turkey or ham. It pairs beautifully with Sweet Potato-Banana Casserole, adding a sweet and tart contrast. You can garnish it with additional Cool Whip and walnuts for an appealing presentation. This dish is also a great addition to potlucks and family gatherings, providing a refreshing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture may change slightly, but it will still be delicious. If you need to reheat it, allow it to come to room temperature before serving, as this dish is best enjoyed chilled. Avoid freezing, as the gelatin may separate upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Sauce Jello contains roughly 159 calories, with 1g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 cranberries instead of jellied cranberry sauce?
While jellied cranberry sauce gives this dish its classic flavor and texture, you can use fresh cranberries. Simply cook them down with sugar and water until they burst, then mix them in once the Jell-O is softened. This will give your dish a more tart and fresh taste.
How long does it take for the Jell-O to set?
Typically, the Jell-O will take about 2-4 hours to set in the refrigerator. To ensure it reaches a soft set before adding the cranberry sauce, check it after about 2 hours. If it’s not set, give it a bit more time, as temperatures may vary based on your fridge.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegan by using a plant-based gelatin alternative and substituting the Cool Whip with a vegan whipped topping. Just ensure the cherry Jell-O you choose is vegan-friendly, as some brands may contain animal-derived ingredients.
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).