Crunch Pineapple Cranberry Mold
A vibrant, fruity gelatin mold combining pineapple, cranberry, and citrus flavors, perfect for festive gatherings or as a refreshing side dish for holiday dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain syrup from pineapple and add enough water to make 1 1/2 cups liquid.
- Heat the liquid to boiling and pour over the lemon-flavored gelatin.
- Stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved.
- Stir in the crushed pineapple, cranberry sauce, orange peel, lemon juice, and chopped nuts if using.
- Pour the mixture into a 10-inch ring mold and chill until firm.
- Unmold the mold and garnish with pineapple slices and salad greens as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant twist, consider adding a splash of orange juice along with the lemon juice. If you're looking for a lighter texture, you can substitute sugar-free gelatin for the regular lemon-flavored gelatin. Using fresh cranberries instead of canned cranberry sauce can enhance the flavor, but they will need to be cooked down with sugar before adding. This dish can also be made ahead of time to save on prep.
Serving Suggestions
This mold is a delightful addition to holiday meals or summer picnics. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats or can be served alongside a fresh salad, such as Confetti Pasta Salad. Garnish with fresh mint or serve with a drizzle of Family French Dressing for added flavor. Add a side of Hot Spiced Fruit Salad for a sweet contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To serve the mold again, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before slicing to make it easier to cut. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change after thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crunch Pineapple Cranberry Mold contains roughly 378 calories, with 8g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (62% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 8g 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 use fresh pineapple instead of canned for this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but you will need to finely chop it and ensure you measure out the equivalent amount. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly from canned pineapple since fresh pineapple has a firmer texture.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! To make this recipe vegan, ensure that the gelatin used is plant-based, like agar-agar or pectin. Additionally, check that your cranberry sauce does not contain any animal products. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegan version of the Crunch Pineapple Cranberry Mold.
How long does it take for the mold to set?
The mold typically takes about 4-6 hours to set in the refrigerator. For best results, prepare it the night before serving to ensure it is fully firm. If you’re in a hurry, you can place it in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, but be sure to monitor it closely to prevent freezing.
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).