Layered Cranberry-Yogurt Fruit Nut Mold
A vibrant layered dessert combining tart cranberries, sweet fruit, creamy yogurt, and crunchy nuts, perfect for festive gatherings or a refreshing treat for fruit lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix gelatin with sugar and 1 cup cranberry juice cocktail over low heat until gelatin is dissolved.
- Add 1 cup of remaining juice and set aside.
- Drain strawberries and pineapple, then reserve the fruit.
- Measure 3/4 cup of juice and add it to the gelatin mixture.
- Add the whole berry cranberry sauce and stir well.
- Pour half of the gelatin mixture into a 9 x 13 x 2-inch pan and chill slightly.
- Add strawberries and mashed bananas to the remaining gelatin and chill until firm.
- Spread the thickened yogurt and broken walnuts over the layered fruit and gelatin.
- Let the gelatin thicken slightly, then add pineapple and second mashed banana to the mixture.
- Spoon the remaining gelatin over the yogurt layer.
- Layer the different layers and chill until fully set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the gelatin is completely dissolved before adding the remaining ingredients. If fresh strawberries are unavailable, use other berries or even mixed frozen fruits. You can substitute the walnuts with pecans or omit them entirely for a nut-free version. To enhance flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract to the yogurt layer.
Serving Suggestions
This layered mold is perfect for summer gatherings or holiday celebrations. Serve it with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with English Muffin Delight for a delightful brunch spread or as a refreshing dessert after a hearty meal. Garnish with fresh mint for an appealing touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The gelatin may lose some firmness over time, but it can still be enjoyed chilled. Avoid freezing as it may alter the texture of the yogurt and fruit layers. Serve it again cold for the best experience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Layered Cranberry-Yogurt Fruit Nut Mold contains roughly 564 calories, with 11g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (80% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. It also contributes 7g 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 ahead of time?
Absolutely! This layered cranberry-yogurt fruit nut mold can be made a day in advance. Just allow it ample time to chill and set in the refrigerator. It’s a great make-ahead dessert for parties, allowing you to enjoy your time with guests without last-minute preparation.
What can I use instead of cranberry juice cocktail?
If you prefer a different flavor, substitute cranberry juice cocktail with pomegranate juice or a blend of mixed berry juices. Just ensure to use a juice that is sweetened to achieve a similar taste profile. Unsweetened options can be adjusted with a bit of added sugar to taste.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it uses unflavored gelatin derived from plant sources. However, if you need a vegan option, consider using agar-agar as a substitute for gelatin, adjusting the quantities according to package instructions. This will help achieve a similar texture while keeping it plant-based.
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).