Spiced Cranberry Orange Mold
A vibrant, fruity gelatin mold combining tangy cranberry and zesty orange flavors with warm spices, perfect for festive occasions or refreshing summer desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the gelatin with boiling water.
- Stir in cranberry sauce, cold water, lemon juice, cinnamon, and ground clove.
- Refrigerate about 1 1/2 hours until thickened.
- Stir in the diced orange sections.
- Spoon the mixture into a 5-cup mold and refrigerate for 4 hours until firm.
- Unmold the gelatin and garnish as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more vibrant flavor, consider adding a splash of orange zest along with the diced orange sections. If you prefer a sweeter taste, feel free to adjust the amount of cranberry sauce. Additionally, you can substitute the gelatin with a vegan alternative like agar-agar for a plant-based version. This recipe is a delightful addition to your holiday spread, especially when paired with dishes like Low-Fat Cream Of Broccoli Soup.
Serving Suggestions
This Spiced Cranberry Orange Mold makes a festive centerpiece for holiday meals. It pairs beautifully with savory dishes like roast turkey or ham, and can also serve as a refreshing side with salads like New York Style Macaroni Salad. Garnish with fresh mint leaves or additional orange slices for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the gelatin appears to lose its firmness, you can gently stir it before serving. Avoid freezing, as it may alter the texture. Serve chilled for the best taste experience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spiced Cranberry Orange Mold contains roughly 277 calories, with 3g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is a good source of calcium (10% 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 use fresh cranberries instead of canned sauce?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but you'll need to cook them down with some sugar and water to create a sauce. This will add a tart and fresh flavor, but ensure you allow it to cool before mixing it with the gelatin.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
To make this Spiced Cranberry Orange Mold vegan, substitute the gelatin with agar-agar, a plant-based gelling agent. Follow the package instructions for the correct ratios and cooking method to ensure it sets properly.
What can I do if the gelatin doesn't set?
If your gelatin doesn't set, it may be due to not using enough gelatin or not allowing it enough time in the fridge. Make sure to follow the instructions closely and consider adding a bit more gelatin if needed for a firmer texture.
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).