Spiced Cranberry Jello
A vibrant, spiced cranberry Jell-O dessert featuring citrus and walnut accents, perfect for holiday gatherings or festive occasions, blending tartness with warm spices.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the raspberry Jell-O in boiling water.
- Stir in the cranberry sauce, cold water, lemon juice, cinnamon, and cloves.
- Refrigerate for 1 1/2 hours until partially set.
- Mix in the orange sections and chopped walnuts.
- Pour the mixture into a 5-cup mold.
- Refrigerate for an additional 4 hours until firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant flavor boost, consider using fresh cranberries instead of canned cranberry sauce, but be sure to sweeten them to taste. You can also substitute walnuts with pecans or omit nuts for a nut-free version. To enhance the spice profile, try adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon and cloves. This dish pairs beautifully with Spiced Tea.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Spiced Cranberry Jello chilled, garnished with additional orange slices or a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant touch. It makes a festive side dish for holiday meals and pairs well with savory dishes like roasted turkey or ham. Consider serving it alongside Bunny Patch Dessert for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If the Jell-O begins to lose its firmness, you can re-chill it for a few hours to set again. Avoid freezing, as it can alter the texture of the gelatin.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spiced Cranberry Jello contains roughly 449 calories, with 6g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), iron (28% of the Daily Value), and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 12g 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?
Yes, this Jello can be made a day or two in advance, making it perfect for holiday gatherings. Just ensure it is well-covered in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.
What can I use if I don't have raspberry Jell-O?
You can easily substitute with any berry-flavored gelatin, such as strawberry or black cherry, depending on your preference. Each will impart a slightly different taste but will still complement the cranberries well.
Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
To make a vegan-friendly version, use agar-agar as a substitute for traditional gelatin. Follow the package instructions for the proper ratio and preparation to ensure the Jello sets correctly.
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).