Venus Cranberry Mold
A vibrant cranberry mold combining sweet, tart, and nutty flavors, perfect for holiday gatherings or a festive appetizer that appeals to a wide range of tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the cherry gelatin in boiling water.
- Chill until the gelatin begins to thicken.
- Add chopped celery, chopped walnuts, peeled and chopped apple, and the whole cranberry sauce to the gelatin.
- Pour the mixture into a mold.
- Chill until the gelatin is firm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a refreshing twist, consider substituting the walnuts with pecans or sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. You can also use sugar-free cherry gelatin for a lighter option. Ensure the boiling water is truly boiling for proper gelatin dissolution. If you want to add a hint of spice, a dash of cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This Venus Cranberry Mold makes a lovely centerpiece on a holiday table or can be served as a side dish with roasted meats. It pairs beautifully with a light salad, such as Strawberry Spinach Salad With Lemon Dressing, to balance out the flavors. For an added touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To serve again, simply unmold and slice as needed. If the gelatin becomes too soft after a few days, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before serving to firm it up again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Venus Cranberry Mold contains roughly 313 calories, with 7g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. 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 make this mold ahead of time?
Absolutely! This mold can be prepared a day or two in advance. Just ensure it's well covered in the refrigerator to prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods. The flavors will even meld together if allowed to sit overnight.
Is it possible to use a different flavor of gelatin?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of gelatin, such as raspberry or orange, to create your own unique twist. Just keep in mind that the overall flavor profile of the dish will change accordingly.
How do I unmold the gelatin without breaking it?
To unmold, run warm water over the outside of the mold for a few seconds to loosen it. You can also gently slide a knife around the edges. Invert the mold onto a serving plate while giving it a light shake to help release the gelatin.
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).