If you’re looking for a vibrant and refreshing dessert that bursts with tangy sweetness and a playful texture, this Cranberry Jello Salad Recipe is your new go-to favorite. It perfectly balances the tartness of cranberry juice and fresh cranberries with the gentle creaminess of whipped cream and the fun surprise of mini marshmallows. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering or simply want a cheery, colorful dish to brighten up your table, this recipe brings joy with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cranberry Jello Salad Recipe uses a handful of simple yet essential ingredients, each handpicked to create the ideal harmony of flavors, textures, and colors. From the tart cranberry juice to the sweet marshmallows and juicy pineapple chunks, every element plays a starring role.
- 1 cup 100% cranberry juice: Provides a rich, natural tartness that forms the dessert’s flavorful base.
- 2 cups cranberry juice (for mixing): Adds liquid volume and intensifies the jello’s vibrant color and taste.
- 1 cup unflavored gelatin powder: The magic ingredient that helps the salad set perfectly while remaining tender.
- 1 cup fresh cranberries: Adds bursts of tart chewiness and visual contrast throughout the salad.
- 1 cup canned pineapple chunks, drained: Brings a juicy, tropical sweetness that balances the cranberries.
- 1 cup mini marshmallows: Introduces a soft, sweet texture for an unexpected delight in every mouthful.
- 1 cup whipped cream (for serving): Adds richness and lightness, making the salad irresistible when served.
How to Make Cranberry Jello Salad Recipe
Step 1: Bloom the Gelatin
Start by sprinkling the unflavored gelatin powder over 1 cup of cold cranberry juice. Let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow the gelatin to fully absorb the liquid and bloom. This step ensures a smooth, firm set without any clumps.
Step 2: Dissolve the Gelatin
Gently heat 2 cups of cranberry juice in a saucepan, then combine it with the bloomed gelatin mixture. Stir continuously until the gelatin dissolves completely, creating a glossy, even liquid base.
Step 3: Add the Fresh Ingredients
Fold in fresh cranberries and drained pineapple chunks into the gelatin mixture for delightful bursts of flavor and texture. Then, gently mix in the mini marshmallows, taking care not to crush them, so they remain light and fluffy.
Step 4: Chill Until Set
Pour the prepared mixture into a mold or dish and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 4 hours. This waiting period allows the gelatin to firm up perfectly, turning the salad into a beautiful, sliceable dessert.
Step 5: Prepare the Whipped Cream
Just before serving, whip the cream until soft peaks form. This fresh whipped cream will add a luscious top layer that complements the tart and sweet flavors below.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the Cranberry Jello Salad into squares or scoop it into bowls, then dollop generously with the whipped cream. Serve chilled for the freshest, most satisfying bite.
How to Serve Cranberry Jello Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few extra fresh cranberries or a sprig of mint on top of each serving elevates the look and adds a fresh flavor contrast, making your Cranberry Jello Salad Recipe even more festive and inviting.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with savory holiday mains like roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even a creamy chicken casserole. The tart and creamy texture helps balance richer, heavier flavors on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering your Cranberry Jello Salad Recipe in clear glass cups or individual parfait glasses to showcase the colorful layers. You can also add alternating layers of whipped cream and jello for a stunning visual effect that’s perfect for parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator. The salad maintains its texture and flavor well for up to 3 days, making it ideal for enjoying over several meals or saving for unexpected guests.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this Cranberry Jello Salad Recipe, as the gelatin’s texture and the marshmallows can become rubbery or lose their delicate consistency when frozen and thawed.
Reheating
This dish is best served chilled and does not require reheating. Warming it would melt the gelatin and ruin the texture, so it’s a perfect make-ahead cold dessert or salad.
FAQs
Can I use flavored gelatin instead of unflavored?
While you can experiment with flavored gelatin, using unflavored gelatin ensures the pure cranberry taste shines through. Flavored gelatin might overpower the delicate balance of this salad.
What can I substitute for fresh cranberries?
If fresh cranberries are unavailable, frozen cranberries work well too; just thaw and drain them before adding. Avoid dried cranberries, as they change the texture and sweetness significantly.
Is there a dairy-free option for the whipped cream?
Absolutely! Coconut whipped cream or any plant-based whipped topping can be used for a dairy-free twist, which pairs nicely with the tart flavors of the cranberry jello.
How long does the salad need to chill?
For the gelatin to set properly, chilling it for at least 4 hours is essential. Overnight chilling is even better for maximum firmness and flavor development.
Can I make the salad without marshmallows?
Yes, you can omit the marshmallows if you prefer. However, the marshmallows add a lovely sweet softness that contrasts beautifully with the tart cranberries and pineapple. They’re highly recommended!
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Jello Salad Recipe is a delightful classic that’s easy to make and sure to brighten any meal with its cheerful color and flavor. Whether it’s a holiday staple or a fun weeknight treat, don’t hesitate to bring this sparkling dish to your table and watch it become a beloved favorite for all your get-togethers.
Print
Cranberry Jello Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes plus 4 hours chilling
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing and festive Cranberry Jello Salad blending the tartness of fresh cranberries and cranberry juice with the sweetness of pineapple chunks and mini marshmallows, set in a delicate gelatin mold and topped with fluffy whipped cream. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a light dessert.
Ingredients
Gelatin Base
- 1 cup 100% cranberry juice (cold)
- 2 cups 100% cranberry juice (heated)
- 1 cup unflavored gelatin powder
Mix-ins
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 cup canned pineapple chunks, drained
- 1 cup mini marshmallows
Topping
- 1 cup whipped cream
Instructions
- Bloom the gelatin: In a medium bowl, sprinkle the unflavored gelatin powder evenly over 1 cup of cold cranberry juice. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes so the gelatin can absorb the liquid and soften.
- Dissolve the gelatin: Heat 2 cups of cranberry juice in a saucepan until hot but not boiling. Add the bloomed gelatin mixture to the hot juice and stir continuously until the gelatin is completely dissolved with no granules remaining.
- Add fruit and marshmallows: Gently mix in the fresh cranberries and drained pineapple chunks. Then carefully fold in the mini marshmallows to avoid deflating them, ensuring even distribution within the mixture.
- Chill to set: Pour the gelatin mixture into a mold or serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set and firm to the touch.
- Prepare whipped cream topping: Before serving, whip fresh cream until soft peaks form. Spoon or pipe the whipped cream generously on top of each serving.
- Serve: Slice the set jello salad into squares or scoop into bowls and serve chilled for a delightful, light dessert.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute gelatin with agar-agar powder following package instructions.
- Ensure the cranberry juice used is 100% juice without added sugars for best flavor.
- The salad can be prepared a day ahead and stored refrigerated to enhance flavor meld.
- Mini marshmallows add a sweet, chewy texture—fold them in gently to keep their shape.
- You can garnish with additional whipped cream or fresh cranberries before serving for extra presentation appeal.
