Cranberry Jello Salad Recipe

Cranberry Jello Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that brings a burst of flavor to any table. This classic recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweet, jiggly goodness of Jell-O, creating a side dish or dessert that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or family gatherings. 

It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and a crowd-pleaser for all ages. The bright red color and creamy texture make it a festive addition to your menu, especially around Thanksgiving or Christmas. 

Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

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Cranberry Jello Salad Recipe – Fun Party Food Idea

Why You'll Love This Cranberry Jello Salad Recipe

This Cranberry Jello Salad is a fantastic choice for any occasion. It’s quick to prepare, taking less than 20 minutes of active time, and requires only a handful of ingredients you likely already have or can easily find. 

The combination of sweet, tart, and creamy flavors creates a balanced dish that pairs well with savory mains or stands alone as a light dessert. Plus, it’s versatile—you can customize it with your favorite fruits or nuts. 

It’s also a great make-ahead option, freeing up your time for other dishes. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual summer barbecue, this salad brings a pop of color and flavor everyone will enjoy.

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Ingredients For Cranberry Jello Salad

To make this Cranberry Jello Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

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Kitchen Equipment Needed

You don’t need fancy tools to make this recipe, but having these items on hand will make the process smooth:

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Cranberry Jello Salad – Sweet & Tangy Holiday Classic

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create a perfect Cranberry Jello Salad. Each step is broken down to ensure even beginners can nail it.

1. Dissolve the Jell-O

In a large mixing bowl, add one 6-ounce package of raspberry Jell-O. Pour in 1 cup of boiling water (you can heat this in a saucepan or microwave). Stir with a spatula for about 2 minutes until the Jell-O powder is completely dissolved. 

Make sure there are no grainy bits left. Then, add 1 cup of cold water and stir for another 30 seconds to combine. This step ensures the Jell-O sets properly later.

2. Mix in the Cranberry Sauce

Add one 14-ounce can of whole berry cranberry sauce to the Jell-O mixture. Use a spatula to break up any large chunks of cranberry sauce and stir until it’s fully blended with the Jell-O. 

The sauce will give the salad its signature tart flavor and vibrant color. Stir gently to avoid splashing.

3. Add Pineapple, Walnuts, Celery, and Apple

Drain one 8-ounce can of crushed pineapple thoroughly to remove excess liquid, then add it to the mixture. Next, stir in 1 cup of chopped walnuts, 1/2 cup of diced celery, and 1 diced apple. 

Use a knife and cutting board to dice the apple and celery into small, bite-sized pieces before adding. Mix everything gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.

4. Fold in the Sour Cream

Add 1 cup of sour cream to the mixture. Use a spatula to fold it in gently, creating a creamy texture without overmixing. The sour cream adds a smooth, tangy contrast to the sweet and tart flavors. 

Make sure it’s fully incorporated but don’t stir too vigorously, as you want to keep the mixture light.

5. Pour into a Dish and Chill

Pour the mixture into a 9x13-inch dish or a decorative mold if you want a fancier presentation. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even surface. 

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 4 hours, or until fully set. Overnight chilling works best for a firm texture.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once set, remove the salad from the refrigerator. If using a mold, dip the bottom in warm water for 10 seconds to loosen it, then invert onto a serving platter. 

For a 9x13-inch dish, cut into squares or scoop with a spoon. Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

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Serving Suggestions

Cranberry Jello Salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a side dish alongside holiday classics like turkey or ham for a festive touch. It pairs beautifully with savory dishes like BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches or Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Recipe. 

For a lighter meal, pair it with a green salad or grilled veggies. You can also present it as a dessert with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of extra chopped walnuts. For a fun twist, serve it in individual dessert cups for a party-ready portion.

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Cranberry Jello Salad Recipe – Perfect for Thanksgiving & Christmas

Variations to Try

This recipe is easy to customize to suit your tastes or dietary needs:

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Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors. This salad doesn’t freeze well, as the Jell-O can become watery when thawed. 

Serve it chilled straight from the fridge—no reheating needed! If you’re taking it to a potluck, keep it in a cooler with ice packs to maintain its texture.

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Nutritional Facts

Per serving (based on 8 servings):

  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 80mg

These values are approximate and depend on the specific brands of ingredients used. Adjust portion sizes to fit your dietary needs.

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Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

This Cranberry Jello Salad isn’t just tasty—it’s packed with nutritious ingredients:

  • Cranberries: Rich in antioxidants, cranberries support urinary tract health and may reduce inflammation. Their tart flavor adds a refreshing zing.
  • Walnuts: A great source of omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts promote heart health and brain function. They add a satisfying crunch.
  • Apples: High in fiber and vitamin C, apples aid digestion and boost immunity. They bring a natural sweetness to the dish.
  • Pineapple: Contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion, and adds a tropical sweetness.
  • Celery: Low in calories and high in fiber, celery supports hydration and digestive health.

For more on healthy ingredients, check out Health Benefits of Chia Seeds.

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Tips for Success

To ensure your Cranberry Jello Salad turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips:

  • Use boiling water to fully dissolve the Jell-O to avoid a grainy texture.
  • Drain the crushed pineapple well to prevent the salad from becoming too watery.
  • Chill the salad for at least 4 hours to ensure it sets properly.
  • Dice the apple and celery into small, uniform pieces for a consistent texture.
  • For a smoother salad, blend the cranberry sauce before mixing it in.

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FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this Cranberry Jello Salad is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it up to 2 days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully over time, making it even tastier.

2. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned cranberry sauce?

Fresh cranberries can work, but you’ll need to cook them down with sugar to mimic the texture and sweetness of whole berry cranberry sauce. Simmer 1 cup of fresh cranberries with 1/2 cup of sugar and 1/4 cup of water until soft, then cool before using.

3. Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Use agar-agar instead of Jell-O (follow package instructions for setting) and replace sour cream with coconut cream or a vegan yogurt alternative.

4. Can I leave out the nuts for an allergy-friendly version?

Yes, simply omit the walnuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for a nut-free crunch. The salad will still be delicious and textured.

5. How do I prevent the Jell-O from sticking to the mold?

Lightly grease the mold with a neutral oil like vegetable oil before pouring in the mixture. Alternatively, dip the mold in warm water for 10 seconds before unmolding to loosen it.

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Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Jello Salad is a delightful blend of sweet, tart, and creamy flavors that’s sure to brighten any meal. It’s simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough for special occasions. With its vibrant color and refreshing taste, it’s a dish that brings joy to the table, whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or a casual dinner. 

The make-ahead nature and versatility make it a go-to recipe you’ll want to keep in your repertoire. Try it out, experiment with variations, and enjoy a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

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Cranberry Jello Salad Recipe