Pineapple Cranberry Squares
A vibrant, fruity dessert featuring pineapple, cranberries, and pecans in a refreshing gelatin base topped with creamy cheese mixture, perfect for festive gatherings or summer parties.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 9-inch square pan, dissolve gelatin in boiling water.
- Stir in crushed pineapple, cranberry sauce, and wine.
- Chill until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Fold in chopped pecans.
- Chill until the mixture is firm.
- In a small bowl, beat cream cheese with sour cream until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the gelatin layer.
- Keep chilled until serving.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding a splash of orange juice or zest to the gelatin mixture. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute Port wine with additional fruit juice like cranberry or pineapple juice. To enhance texture, lightly toast the pecans before folding them in. This recipe can also be adapted for different fruits by experimenting with flavors in the gelatin.
Serving Suggestions
These Pineapple Cranberry Squares are delightful on their own, but they pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also complement well with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced dessert experience. Consider serving them alongside Barbara'S Berry Pie for a festive touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the texture, avoid freezing the squares, as the gelatin may separate upon thawing. When ready to serve, you can cut the squares into smaller pieces for easy portioning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple Cranberry Squares contains roughly 417 calories, with 6g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value) and protein (12% of the Daily Value). 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 pineapple instead of canned?
While fresh pineapple can be used, it may require additional preparation to ensure the right consistency. Canned crushed pineapple is already softened and contains juice, which helps in the jelly setting. If using fresh, make sure to crush it finely and adjust the liquid content accordingly.
How long does it take for the squares to set?
After chilling, the squares usually take about 4 to 6 hours to set completely, depending on your refrigerator's temperature. It's best to prepare them a day in advance if you're planning to serve them for a gathering, ensuring they are fully firm before cutting.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, these squares are perfect for making ahead! You can prepare them up to two days in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
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).