This Molded Cranberry-Orange Salad is a refreshing and festive dish perfect for holiday gatherings. Made with tart cranberries, sweet oranges, and a hint of citrus zest, this salad is set in a beautifully molded shape, making it a stunning addition to any table. Whether served as a side dish or a light dessert, this gelatin-based salad is a nostalgic classic that never goes out of style.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Holidays – A classic Thanksgiving and Christmas dish that adds color and flavor to your meal.
- Sweet and Tart Balance – The combination of cranberries and oranges creates a refreshing, well-balanced flavor.
- Easy to Prepare – Simple ingredients and a hassle-free process make this a great make-ahead dish.
- Beautiful Presentation – The molded shape adds an elegant touch to your table.
- Versatile – Serve as a side dish, dessert, or even a spread for toast and crackers.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cranberries (fresh or frozen)
- Orange zest and juice
- Sugar
- Crushed pineapple (drained)
- Orange-flavored gelatin (such as Jell-O)
- Unflavored gelatin (for extra firmness)
- Boiling water
- Cold water
- Chopped nuts (optional, such as pecans or walnuts)
Directions
- Prepare the cranberries – Chop the cranberries finely or pulse them in a food processor. Mix with sugar and let sit for about 30 minutes to release juices.
- Dissolve the gelatin – In a large bowl, dissolve the orange-flavored and unflavored gelatin in boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved. Add cold water and stir well.
- Mix in the fruit – Add the cranberry mixture, drained pineapple, and orange zest. Stir to combine. If using nuts, fold them in at this stage.
- Pour into a mold – Lightly grease a gelatin mold or bundt pan with nonstick spray. Pour the mixture in evenly.
- Chill until set – Refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight, until fully set.
- Unmold and serve – To release, dip the mold briefly in warm water and invert onto a serving plate.
- Garnish (optional) – Decorate with fresh cranberries, orange slices, or mint leaves.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8-10
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 4-6 hours
- Total Time: Approximately 6 hours 15 minutes
Variations
- Apple-Cranberry Version – Add chopped apples for extra crunch.
- Spiced Cranberry Salad – Mix in cinnamon and cloves for a warm, festive twist.
- Sugar-Free Option – Use sugar-free gelatin and sweetener instead of sugar.
- Creamy Variation – Fold in whipped cream or sour cream before molding for a richer texture.
- Berry Blend – Mix in raspberries or strawberries for additional fruit flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as gelatin can lose its texture when frozen.
- Make-Ahead Tip: This dish is best when made a day in advance to allow it to set properly.
FAQs
Can I use canned cranberries?
Fresh or frozen cranberries work best, but whole berry cranberry sauce can be used in a pinch.
How do I keep the mold from sticking?
Lightly grease the mold with nonstick spray or rinse with cold water before filling.
Can I use lemon or lime gelatin instead of orange?
Yes! Lemon or lime gelatin will give a slightly different but delicious flavor.
What if my gelatin doesn’t set?
Ensure you follow the chilling time and don’t add too much liquid. If needed, add extra unflavored gelatin.
How do I unmold the salad without breaking it?
Dip the mold in warm water for a few seconds, then gently loosen the edges before inverting onto a plate.
Can I add whipped cream on top?
Yes! A dollop of whipped cream makes a great finishing touch.
Is this a dessert or a side dish?
It works as both! It’s traditionally served as a side, but it’s sweet enough for dessert.
Can I make this in individual molds?
Yes, pour the mixture into small ramekins or silicone molds for single servings.
Do I have to use nuts?
No, the nuts are optional, but they add a nice crunch.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just use a larger mold or divide it between two molds.
Conclusion
This Molded Cranberry-Orange Salad is a timeless, festive dish that adds a burst of bright, tangy flavor to any holiday meal. Easy to make, beautiful to serve, and refreshing to eat, it’s a must-have for your next celebration. Try it today and bring a touch of nostalgia to your table!
Print
Molded Cranberry-Orange Salad
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 1x
- Category: Side Dish, Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American, Holiday
Description
This Molded Cranberry-Orange Salad is a sweet-tart, refreshing side dish that’s perfect for holiday tables, potlucks, or family gatherings. Made with cranberry sauce, fresh oranges, crushed pineapple, and a hint of gelatin, it has a vibrant, jewel-like appearance and a delicious balance of flavors. Serve it as a festive side or a light dessert!
Ingredients
- 1 (14 oz) can whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1 (3 oz) package raspberry or cranberry-flavored gelatin (Jell-O)
- 3/4 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed for best flavor!)
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained (canned or fresh)
- 1 small orange, peeled and finely chopped (or use mandarin oranges!)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, for crunch!)
- 1/2 tsp orange zest (for extra citrus brightness!)
Instructions
Step 1: Dissolve the Gelatin
- In a large bowl, dissolve the gelatin in boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved.
- Stir in cold water and orange juice, mixing well.
Step 2: Add the Fruit & Nuts
- Add cranberry sauce, breaking it up with a fork until well combined.
- Stir in drained pineapple, chopped oranges, orange zest, and nuts (if using).
- Mix everything until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Mold & Chill
- Pour the mixture into a lightly greased mold or serving dish.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
Step 4: Unmold & Serve
- To unmold, dip the mold into warm water for a few seconds, then invert onto a serving plate.
- Garnish with fresh orange slices, mint leaves, or extra chopped nuts.
- Slice and serve chilled as a side dish or dessert!
Serving & Storage
- Serve cold as a refreshing side for turkey, ham, or roasted chicken.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Do not freeze, as the gelatin may lose its texture.
Notes
- For a smoother texture: Blend the cranberry sauce before mixing.
- Want extra tang? Add 1 tbsp lemon juice.
- Make it extra fancy! Pour into individual serving cups for easy plating.
- No mold? Use a glass serving dish or a bundt pan for a pretty shape.