Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Cranberry Apple Jello Salad is a classic holiday dish that brings together cranberries, apples, and crushed pineapple in a beautiful Jello mold. It’s sweet, tangy, and has a lovely crunch from fresh apples and chopped nuts. This jello salad is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering, and it pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like turkey or ham.
Ingredients
- 1 package (6 oz) raspberry or cranberry-flavored Jello
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained (reserve juice)
- 1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1 apple, chopped (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup cold water
Instructions
1. Dissolve the Jello
- Boil Water: In a medium heatproof bowl, pour 2 cups of boiling water.
- Add Jello: Add the raspberry or cranberry-flavored Jello to the boiling water and stir for about 2 minutes, or until completely dissolved.
2. Mix in the Fruit
- Add Reserved Pineapple Juice: Measure out 1/2 cup of the reserved pineapple juice and add enough cold water to make 1 cup total. Stir it into the dissolved Jello mixture.
- Add Cranberry Sauce: Stir in the whole berry cranberry sauce until well combined.
- Add Fruit: Add the drained crushed pineapple, chopped apple, and chopped nuts (if using). Mix everything together until evenly distributed.
3. Chill and Set
- Pour into Mold or Dish: Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch dish or a Jello mold.
- Refrigerate: Place in the refrigerator and chill for at least 4 hours or until the Jello is fully set.
4. Serve
- Unmold or Serve from Dish: If using a mold, carefully loosen the edges and invert the Jello onto a serving platter. Otherwise, serve directly from the dish.
- Garnish (Optional): Garnish with additional chopped nuts or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
Cooking Notes
- Apple Texture: For the best texture, use crisp apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala. They add a wonderful crunch to the salad.
- Reserved Juice: Using the reserved pineapple juice adds a boost of flavor to the Jello mixture. Make sure to use it for extra fruity taste.
Variations
- Orange Cranberry Jello Salad: Substitute raspberry or cranberry-flavored Jello with orange-flavored Jello and add a teaspoon of orange zest for a citrusy twist.
- Marshmallow Topping: Fold in 1 cup of mini marshmallows for a sweeter touch and more fun texture.
- Creamy Topping: Spread a thin layer of sweetened cream cheese or sour cream on top of the Jello salad for a creamy contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Cranberry Apple Jello Salad ahead of time?
Yes! This is a great make-ahead dish. Prepare it up to 1-2 days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
How do I store leftover Cranberry Apple Jello Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of cranberry sauce?
You can use fresh cranberries, but they should be cooked first to soften and sweeten them. Cook 1 cup of fresh cranberries with 1/2 cup of sugar and 1/2 cup of water until they burst and the mixture thickens slightly, then let cool before adding to the Jello mixture.
Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans or even omit the nuts if you prefer a nut-free version.
What can I serve with Cranberry Apple Jello Salad?
This salad pairs wonderfully with holiday meals, especially alongside roasted turkey, baked ham, or any savory main course. It adds a fruity and refreshing contrast to richer dishes.
Cranberry Apple Jello Salad is a classic and festive dish that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or any occasion that calls for something bright and fruity. The combination of sweet, tangy cranberries, juicy pineapple, and crunchy apples creates a refreshing and delightful treat that will have everyone coming back for more.
Try this easy and colorful recipe for your next gathering, and add a touch of nostalgia to your holiday table!
