Spiced Cranberry Ring
A festive and tangy cranberry ring with orange, walnuts, and warm spices, perfect for holiday gatherings and loved ones seeking a colorful, flavorful gelatin dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve gelatin, salt, cinnamon, and cloves in boiling water.
- Add cranberry sauce and orange rind to the gelatin mixture and chill until thickened.
- Fold in orange sections, chopped walnuts, and chopped apples.
- Pour the mixture into a 6-cup mold.
- Chill until firm, about 4 hours.
- Unmold the gelatin ring.
- Alternatively, pour into an 11 x 13-inch pan, chill until firm, and cut into squares.
- Garnish with whipped cream if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vibrant flavor, consider adding a splash of orange juice to the gelatin mixture. You can substitute chopped pecans for walnuts if desired. If you prefer a smoother texture, blend the cranberry sauce before adding it to the gelatin. This Spiced Cranberry Ring pairs wonderfully with Linda'S Spiced Pretzels for a festive spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Spiced Cranberry Ring chilled, garnished with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. It makes a delightful addition to a holiday brunch or potluck. Consider pairing it with a light salad, such as Pear, Cashew And Cherry Salad, for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The gelatin ring can be served cold directly from the fridge, and it holds its shape well. If you need to rehydrate the dessert slightly, a light drizzle of orange juice can refresh its flavor without compromising texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spiced Cranberry Ring contains roughly 423 calories, with 8g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (12% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 683mg per serving (30% 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 cranberry sauce?
While fresh cranberries can be used, they need to be cooked down with sugar before adding to the gelatin. This will ensure the right sweetness and texture. Using whole berry cranberry sauce simplifies the process and provides a consistent flavor.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version of the Spiced Cranberry Ring, use a plant-based gelatin substitute, such as agar-agar, instead of traditional gelatin. Ensure that the cranberry sauce is also free from animal products, which is often the case with canned varieties.
What can I do if my gelatin doesn't set properly?
If your gelatin doesn't set, it may be due to insufficient chilling time or incorrect proportions. Ensure that you dissolve the gelatin completely and allow ample time in the refrigerator. If it stays liquid, consider adding a bit more gelatin or using a different brand.
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).