Creamy Cranberry Mold
A vibrant, creamy dessert combining tart cranberry sauce with sweet cherry Jell-O and smooth sour cream, perfect for holiday gatherings or festive occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the cherry Jell-O in 2 cups of boiling water.
- Stir in the cranberry sauce until well blended.
- Mix until fully combined.
- Add sour cream and beat with an electric mixer until creamy.
- Pour the mixture into a mold and chill until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of orange juice or zest to the mixture for a citrusy twist. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt. For a fun texture, fold in some chopped nuts or mini marshmallows before chilling. Ensure the Jell-O is fully dissolved to avoid graininess in the final mold.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the creamy cranberry mold as a festive side dish during holiday meals or family gatherings. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats and can be a refreshing complement to richer dishes. Consider garnishing with fresh cranberries or mint leaves for an attractive presentation. For a sweet ending, try serving with Grama'S Chocolate Chip Cookies for a delightful dessert combo.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The creamy cranberry mold can be sliced and served cold straight from the fridge. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture of the sour cream. For best results, consume within a few days for optimal flavor and consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Cranberry Mold contains roughly 118 calories, with 4g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is a good source of calcium (11% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for making ahead! You can prepare the creamy cranberry mold up to 24 hours in advance. Just ensure it is well covered in the fridge to maintain freshness. Chilling overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead dish for gatherings.
What can I use instead of cherry Jell-O?
You can easily substitute cherry Jell-O with another flavor, such as raspberry or strawberry, for a different taste profile. Just keep in mind that the color and flavor will change slightly, but it will still yield a delicious result. Alternatively, for a more natural option, you could use fruit juice and gelatin.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it does not contain any meat or animal products aside from the dairy. However, if you want to ensure it’s suitable for all dietary preferences, check the Jell-O packaging for any gelatin sources, as some brands may use fish-derived gelatin.
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).