Pineapple Cranberry Mold
A vibrant gelatin mold combining pineapple, cranberry, and port wine flavors, perfect for holiday gatherings or festive occasions, offering a sweet-tart, fruity centerpiece.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain crushed pineapple and reserve the juice.
- Combine the reserved pineapple juice with 3/4 cup canned pineapple juice in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and stir in the raspberry gelatin until dissolved.
- Break up the cranberry sauce and add it to the gelatin mixture.
- Stir in Port wine or cranberry juice.
- Chill the mixture until it is slightly thickened.
- Add the crushed pineapple, diced apple, and chopped walnuts to the mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a 2-quart mold.
- Chill until the mold is firm, about 4 hours or overnight.
- Unmold onto a serving plate and garnish with sliced pineapple.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure that the cranberry sauce is well broken up before adding it to the gelatin mixture. You can substitute the Port wine with additional cranberry juice if you prefer a non-alcoholic option. If you want a different flavor profile, consider adding some citrus zest or a splash of orange juice for a refreshing twist. This mold is reminiscent of classic American recipes, making it a great choice for potlucks.
Serving Suggestions
This delightful mold can be served as a refreshing side dish or dessert. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats or as part of a festive buffet alongside dishes like Uncle Otto Sparkman'S Punch. Garnish with additional diced apples or fresh mint for a pop of color. Consider serving it alongside a light salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The gelatin may soften slightly over time, but it will remain flavorful. Avoid freezing the mold, as the texture will change when thawed. To serve again, simply remove from the fridge and unmold onto a plate for a fresh presentation.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple Cranberry Mold contains roughly 215 calories, with 3g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% 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 Pineapple Cranberry Mold can be made a day in advance. Just ensure it is well-chilled and firm before serving. This makes it perfect for holiday gatherings or potlucks, allowing you to save time on the day of the event.
What can I use instead of walnuts?
If you need a nut-free option, you can omit the walnuts entirely or replace them with toasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for some crunch. Diced dried fruits like cranberries or apricots can also add a nice texture and sweetness.
Is there a way to make this mold vegan?
Yes, to make this Pineapple Cranberry Mold vegan, use fruit-based gelatin or agar-agar as a substitute for traditional gelatin. Ensure all other ingredients, like the cranberry sauce and juice, are also free from animal products for a completely vegan dish.
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).