Cranberry Whip Cream Salad
A vibrant, fruity dessert salad combining cranberries, pineapple, grapes, and whipped topping, perfect for festive gatherings or light, refreshing treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the crushed pineapple and save the liquid.
- Add enough boiling water to the pineapple liquid to make 1 cup.
- Dissolve the raspberry jello in the hot liquid.
- Stir in the cranberry sauce and chopped nuts.
- Chill until the jello is partially set.
- Fold in the halved grapes, pineapple, and Dream Whip.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered 6-cup mold and chill until fully set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting the Dream Whip with a homemade whipped cream or Greek yogurt. If you prefer a different flavor, try using cherry or strawberry jello instead of raspberry. Ensure that the jello is partially set before folding in the fruits to maintain their shape. Chopped pecans can also be an excellent alternative to the nuts used in this recipe.
Serving Suggestions
This Cranberry Whip Cream Salad makes a delightful side dish for holiday meals or potlucks. It pairs beautifully with a savory main like roasted turkey or glazed ham. Garnish with additional grapes or nuts for an appealing presentation, and consider serving it alongside a light dessert like Breakfast Applesauce Bars for a well-rounded meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep for up to 3 days. Be aware that the texture may change slightly as it sits. If you need to serve it again, give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh the mixture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Whip Cream Salad contains roughly 475 calories, with 6g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is a good source of potassium (15% of the Daily Value), protein (11% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned cranberry sauce?
Using fresh cranberries will change the texture and flavor profile of the dish. If you choose this route, you'll need to cook the cranberries with sugar and water until they burst, creating a sauce-like consistency. This may also affect the sweetness of your salad, so adjust the sugar accordingly.
Is it possible to make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! To make this salad vegan, substitute Dream Whip with a plant-based whipped topping or coconut whipped cream. Ensure that the jello is also vegan by selecting a brand that does not contain gelatin, or use agar-agar as a replacement for a similar texture.
Can I prepare this salad a day in advance?
Yes, preparing this salad a day in advance is actually a great idea. It allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge.
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).