Plymouth Rock Holiday Mold
A festive holiday mold combining citrus, cranberry, apples, and nuts, offering a colorful and flavorful centerpiece perfect for family gatherings and special celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small bowl, dissolve 3 oz. lemon gelatin in 1 cup boiling water.
- Stir in 3/4 cup cold water.
- Chill until thickened.
- Spoon 1/4 cup lemon gelatin into the bottom of a 4-cup ring mold.
- Arrange sliced apples and pecan halves in the gelatin.
- Carefully spoon remaining lemon gelatin over the fruit and nuts.
- In another small bowl, dissolve 3 oz. orange or raspberry gelatin in 1 cup boiling water.
- Stir in 8 oz. cranberry sauce and 1/4 cup lemon juice; chill until thickened, about 3 hours.
- Unmold onto a serving plate.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant flavor, consider using fresh lemon juice instead of bottled. If you prefer a twist, try substituting the orange or raspberry gelatin with a different flavor like grape or cherry. Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved before chilling to achieve the best texture. You can add other fruits like berries for added color and taste, enhancing the visual appeal of the mold.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this festive mold chilled on a platter, garnished with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a light salad, such as One-Week Slaw, or as a side to a holiday meal. For a complete dessert experience, consider serving it alongside whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you need to reheat, it’s best to let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly. Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the texture of the gelatin.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Plymouth Rock Holiday Mold contains roughly 147 calories, with 2g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% 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 vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by using plant-based gelatin alternatives, such as agar-agar. Ensure that the fruit juices used are 100% fruit juice without any added gelatin. This adjustment will maintain the integrity of the dish while accommodating vegan diets.
How long does this mold need to chill?
The gelatin should chill until thickened, which typically takes about 3 hours. However, for the best texture, consider leaving it in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures a firmer set, making it easier to unmold and serve.
What can I substitute for cranberry sauce?
If you don't have cranberry sauce, you can use other fruit preserves or sauces, such as raspberry or cherry. Just ensure the substitute is similar in consistency and sweetness. You can also make a homemade sauce by cooking down fresh or frozen berries with a bit of sugar, if preferred.
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).