Frozen Cranberry Mold
A refreshing frozen cranberry mold combining tart cranberry sauce, sweet mandarin oranges, and creamy Cool Whip, ideal for festive gatherings or a cool summer treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a Tupperware Jel-Ring mold.
- Freeze until firm before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
Ensure the cranberries are fully mixed with the Cool Whip for an even texture. If you prefer a sweeter mold, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup. You can substitute walnuts with pecans or omit them entirely for a nut-free version. For a fruity twist, try adding diced apples or pineapple. This dish is also great for holiday gatherings alongside Fluffy Berry Pie.
Serving Suggestions
This Frozen Cranberry Mold makes an excellent side dish for holiday meals, pairing nicely with roasted meats and vegetarian dishes alike. Consider serving it with a dollop of additional Cool Whip on top or alongside another dessert like Candy-Crust Mint Pie for a festive spread. Garnish with extra mandarin oranges or walnuts for added flair.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer. It’s best consumed within two weeks for optimal freshness. To serve, let it thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours or at room temperature for about 30 minutes before slicing. Avoid refreezing once thawed to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Frozen Cranberry Mold contains roughly 706 calories, with 16g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value) and calcium (26% 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 use fresh cranberries instead of canned?
Fresh cranberries are more tart and would require cooking down with sugar to achieve a similar flavor to canned cranberry sauce. If you choose to use fresh, simmer them with sugar and water until softened, then cool before mixing with the other ingredients.
How long does it take to freeze the mold?
The mold typically takes about 4-6 hours to freeze completely, but for best results, consider leaving it overnight. This ensures that it’s firm enough to hold its shape when unmolded and served.
Can I make this mold in advance?
Absolutely! This Frozen Cranberry Mold can be prepared a few days in advance, making it a convenient option for holiday meals. Just be sure to keep it well-covered in the freezer until you are ready to serve.
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).