Cranberry Jello Salad Recipe

A classic holiday favorite, Cranberry Jello Salad is bright, colorful, and full of flavor. Its sweet-tart cranberries, juicy pineapple, and creamy whipped topping make it a perfect side dish for holiday dinners, potlucks, or anytime you want a refreshing, festive treat.

This recipe is beloved for its simplicity, make-ahead convenience, and nostalgic appeal. The combination of gelatin, fruit, and cream creates a delightful texture that balances sweetness and tang in every bite.

🍒 Ingredients

• 1 (6 oz) package cranberry-flavored gelatin
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 (14 oz) can whole cranberry sauce
• 1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• 1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip, thawed)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Dissolve the Gelatin
In a medium bowl, dissolve the cranberry gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until fully dissolved.

2. Add the Cranberry Sauce
Stir in the canned cranberry sauce until smooth and evenly combined.

3. Mix in Fruit and Nuts
Add the crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, and chopped nuts (if using). Stir gently to combine.

4. Chill
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until the gelatin is set.

5. Fold in Whipped Topping
Once set, gently fold in the whipped topping to create a creamy, light texture throughout the salad.

6. Serve
Transfer to a serving dish or leave in the bowl. Garnish with additional cranberries or a sprig of mint for a festive touch.

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Salad

• Easy to make: Minimal prep and ingredients.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare a day in advance for convenience.
• Festive & colorful: Perfect for holiday tables or potlucks.
• Customizable: Add extra fruits, nuts, or marshmallows to your taste.
• Family favorite: Sweet, tangy, and creamy — loved by kids and adults alike.

🍴 Tips for the Best Cranberry Jello Salad

1. Drain the pineapple well to prevent the salad from being too watery.
2. Use fresh whipped topping or thawed store-bought for a light, creamy texture.
3. Chill completely before folding in the whipped topping to prevent it from melting.
4. Add texture: Consider chopped apples, mandarin oranges, or even shredded coconut for variation.
5. Serving tip: Serve in a clear glass bowl to showcase the vibrant red color.

Cranberry Jello Salad

A classic holiday dessert featuring cranberry gelatin, cranberry sauce, pineapple, marshmallows, and creamy whipped topping.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 3 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 8 cups

Course: Dessert, Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Holiday

Calories: 180

Ingredients

  

• 1 package cranberry-flavored gelatin 6 oz
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 can whole cranberry sauce 14 oz
• 1 can crushed pineapple 20 oz, drained
• 1 cup mini marshmallows
• 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts optional
• 1 cup whipped topping thawed

Equipment

• Medium mixing bowl
• Spatula or spoon
• Refrigerator-safe serving dish

Method

 

1. Dissolve cranberry gelatin in boiling water and stir until fully dissolved.
2. Add cranberry sauce and mix until smooth.
3. Stir in crushed pineapple, mini marshmallows, and nuts if using.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours until set.
5. Fold in whipped topping gently once gelatin is set.
6. Transfer to serving dish, garnish with cranberries or mint, and serve chilled.

Notes

Prepare a day ahead for convenience; fold in whipped topping before serving for best texture.

🍎 Variations

• Citrus Twist: Add orange zest or juice to brighten the flavor.
• Nut-Free: Omit nuts if serving children or for a smoother salad.
• Extra Fruity: Fold in diced apples, grapes, or kiwi for more color and sweetness.
• Layered Jello Salad: Layer cranberry jello with a layer of vanilla or lemon jello for a fun visual effect.

🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead

• Refrigerate: Store covered in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
• Do not freeze: The whipped topping and gelatin texture will not hold up when frozen.
• Make ahead: This salad can be prepared a day before serving; just fold in whipped topping before serving.

🥄 Serving Suggestions

• Perfect for holiday dinners like Thanksgiving or Christmas.
• Great side dish for potlucks or family gatherings.
• Pair with roasted meats, ham, or turkey for a complete festive meal.
• Garnish with extra cranberries, pecans, or a sprig of mint for an elegant touch.

❤️ Why This Recipe Works

Cranberry Jello Salad balances sweet, tart, and creamy in one refreshing dish. The gelatin holds everything together, creating a fun, jiggly texture, while the whipped topping and marshmallows add a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth experience. It’s nostalgic, colorful, and instantly elevates any holiday table.