Cranberry Squares
Cranberry Squares are a vibrant, refreshing dessert that beautifully blend the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of pineapple and sugar. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a light summer treat, this dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, appealing to fruit lovers and those seeking a unique dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve gelatin in hot water.
- Add sugar, lemon juice, and pineapple juice. Stir to dissolve.
- Chill until partially set. Add remaining ingredients.
- Chill in oiled pan or in individual molds until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, substitute the cherry flavored gelatin with raspberry or cranberry gelatin for a different flavor profile. If you want a more tart taste, consider increasing the lemon juice slightly. Fresh cranberries can also be used instead of ground raw cranberries, but you'll need to adjust the sugar to balance the tartness. This dish is a great complement to Honey-Glazed Carrots.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cranberry squares as a refreshing dessert or a unique side dish at your holiday gatherings. They pair wonderfully with savory dishes like Red Hot Dogs or even as a light accompaniment to a festive brunch. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture and serve alongside a glass of Holiday Citrus Quencher for a vibrant meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, if you prefer it slightly warm, you can let it sit at room temperature for a bit before serving. However, this dish is best enjoyed chilled, so it's recommended to serve it cold straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Squares contains roughly 318 calories, with 4g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. 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 make this recipe vegan?
Yes, to make this recipe vegan, use a plant-based gelatin substitute, such as agar-agar or pectin, instead of traditional gelatin. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as juices and sweeteners, are vegan-friendly. This way, you can enjoy a delicious plant-based version of these cranberry squares.
How can I make this dish more festive?
To enhance the festive feel, consider adding chopped fresh herbs, like mint or parsley, on top before serving. You can also serve the squares in decorative molds or cut them into fun shapes. Pairing them with a vibrant dish like Festive Corn Relish will add color to your holiday table.
What can I substitute for the pineapple juice?
If you don't have pineapple juice, orange juice is a great substitute that will maintain the fruity flavor. Alternatively, you can use a blend of apple juice and a little lemon juice to mimic the sweetness and acidity of pineapple juice. Both options will work well in this recipe.
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).