The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a refreshing cranberry jello salad? These festive treats are perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat to brighten up your holiday table. With their vibrant red color and tangy flavor, cranberry jello salads are sure to be a hit. In this article, we’ll share 20 mouthwatering recipes that incorporate the deliciousness of cranberries with other seasonal fruits, nuts, and spices. From classic combinations like cranberry orange and cranberry pineapple, to more unique pairings like cranberry lime and cranberry coconut, there’s something for everyone on this list. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen, and make these holiday gatherings a little bit brighter!
Cranberry Orange Jello Salad with Walnuts
A refreshing and flavorful side dish perfect for holiday gatherings or potlucks. This Cranberry Orange Jello Salad with Walnuts is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened orange gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup cranberry sauce
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Orange zest, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve gelatin in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until gelatin is fully dissolved.
3. In a large bowl, combine cranberry sauce, heavy cream, sugar, and dissolved gelatin. Stir until well combined.
4. Fold in chopped walnuts.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13 inch dish and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
6. Garnish with orange zest before serving.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (or overnight)
Sparkling Cranberry Jello Salad
A refreshing and fruity twist on traditional jello salads, this Sparkling Cranberry Jello Salad is perfect for holiday gatherings or potlucks. With its pop of color and tangy flavor, it’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cranberry jello
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup sparkling water
– 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the cranberry jello in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until dissolved.
3. Stir in sugar until dissolved.
4. Add sparkling water and stir well.
5. Fold in fresh or frozen berries.
6. Sprinkle with orange zest for garnish.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready to serve immediately.
Layered Cranberry Jello Salad with Cream Cheese
This vibrant salad combines the tanginess of cranberries and cream cheese with a sweet jello base, perfect for holiday gatherings or potlucks. A refreshing twist on traditional fruit salads!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cranberry Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– Fresh fruit of your choice (such as grapes, strawberries, or pineapple)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the cranberry Jell-O in boiling water. Add cold water and stir until fully dissolved.
2. Pour the jello mixture into a 9×13 inch dish and refrigerate until set (about 3-4 hours).
3. In a separate bowl, mix softened cream cheese with heavy whipping cream until smooth. Spread evenly over the jello layer.
4. Sprinkle chopped nuts or fresh fruit on top of the cream cheese layer, if desired.
5. Refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (depending on setting time)
Cranberry Pineapple Jello Salad
This refreshing salad is perfect for holiday gatherings or potlucks. With the sweetness of pineapple, tartness of cranberries, and a hint of orange, it’s sure to be a hit with your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cranberry Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1 cup crushed pineapple
– 1 cup chopped fresh cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the cranberry Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until dissolved.
3. Stir in pineapple juice.
4. Refrigerate until set, about 3 hours.
5. Fold in crushed pineapple and chopped cranberries.
6. Sprinkle with nuts, if desired.
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None required! This salad is a no-bake treat.
Festive Cranberry Jello Mold
Add a pop of color and festive flair to your holiday gathering with this refreshing and easy-to-make cranberry jello mold.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cranberry gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups cranberry sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– Fresh cranberries and whipped cream for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the gelatin in boiling water. Let it cool slightly.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cold water, sugar, and cooled gelatin mixture. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Add the cranberry sauce and stir until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch jello mold or a Bundt pan.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
6. Just before serving, garnish with chopped fresh mint leaves and a sprinkle of sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Simply refrigerate the mixture until it sets.
Cranberry Apple Jello Salad
Cranberry Apple Jello Salad Recipe
A refreshing twist on a classic jello salad, this recipe combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of apples and a hint of spice. Perfect for potlucks or holiday gatherings!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cranberry jello
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh apple (such as Granny Smith)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whipped cream, optional
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the cranberry jello in the boiling water.
2. Add the cold water and stir until the mixture is fully dissolved.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooled jello mixture, chopped apple, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Stir until the ingredients are well combined and the apples are evenly coated with the jello mixture.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. If desired, top with whipped cream before serving.
Cooking Time: None (chill time included)
Creamy Cranberry Jello Salad with Pecans
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of cranberries with the crunch of pecans, all wrapped up in a creamy jello package. Perfect for holiday gatherings or potlucks!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cranberry Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, thawed
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until dissolved.
3. Stir in heavy cream, sugar, and chopped pecans until well combined.
4. Fold in thawed cranberries.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a 9×13 inch pan.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is a no-bake treat.
Cranberry Lime Jello Salad
Add a refreshing twist to your holiday gatherings with this easy-to-make Cranberry Lime Jello Salad! This sweet and tangy side dish is perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 package (0.25 oz) lime Jell-O
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Dissolve Jell-O in boiling water, then add cold water and stir until dissolved.
2. Add cranberries, pineapple juice, and nuts (if using). Stir until well combined.
3. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch dish or mold. Refrigerate until set, about 3-4 hours.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with additional cranberries and lime wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is a simple assembly job that requires no cooking time at all.
Cranberry Raspberry Jello Salad
This refreshing salad combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of raspberries and a hint of tanginess from the Jello. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a light dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened raspberry Jello
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup fresh raspberries, sliced
– 1 cup cranberry sauce
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped until stiff peaks form
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the raspberry Jello in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until dissolved.
3. Stir in sliced raspberries and cranberry sauce.
4. Allow the mixture to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
5. Just before serving, fold in whipped heavy cream and vanilla extract.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None required. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cranberry Jello Salad with Mandarin Oranges
A refreshing and fruity side dish perfect for holiday gatherings or potlucks. This Cranberry Jello Salad is a sweet and tangy combination of cranberries, mandarin oranges, and pineapple, set in a festive green Jell-O.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened lemon-lime flavored gelatin
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup cranberry sauce
– 1 cup mandarin oranges, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup crushed pineapple
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– Whipped cream or chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the gelatin in boiling water.
2. Add cold water to the mixture and stir until dissolved.
3. Stir in cranberry sauce until well combined.
4. Fold in mandarin oranges and pineapple.
5. Pour into a 9×13-inch dish or individual molds.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
7. Just before serving, sprinkle with sugar to taste.
8. Top with whipped cream or chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (or more depending on the size of the mold)
Cranberry Pomegranate Jello Salad
This refreshing jello salad combines the tartness of cranberries and pomegranate with a hint of sweetness, perfect for holiday gatherings or potlucks. With its vibrant colors and fruity flavors, it’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cranberry jello
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened pomegranate jello
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup crushed pineapple
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup pomegranate arils (or substitute with dried cranberries)
– Sugar to taste
Instructions:
1. Dissolve the cranberry and pomegranate jello in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until cooled.
3. Fold in heavy cream, crushed pineapple, chopped pecans, cranberries, and pomegranate arils.
4. Chill in refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None required!
Cranberry Jello Salad with Whipped Topping
A classic dessert salad that’s perfect for holidays and gatherings, this Cranberry Jello Salad with Whipped Topping is a sweet and tangy treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cranberry jello
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the cranberry jello in the boiling water.
2. Add the cold water and stir until the mixture is well combined.
3. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until the jello has set.
4. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and sugar until stiff peaks form.
5. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
6. Fold the whipped topping into the cooled jello mixture.
7. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None (refrigeration time only)
Cranberry Jello Salad with Fresh Berries
This sweet and tangy salad is perfect for holiday gatherings or potlucks, combining the flavors of cranberries, fresh berries, and whipped cream. It’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cranberry Jello
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 cups fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the cranberry Jello in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until mixture is clear.
3. Refrigerate until set, about 3 hours or overnight.
4. Whip heavy whipping cream and sugar until stiff peaks form.
5. Fold whipped cream into the cooled cranberry mixture.
6. Gently combine with fresh berries.
Cooking Time: None
Cranberry Coconut Jello Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of cranberries with the creaminess of coconut and the crunch of chopped pecans, perfect for a light and fruity side dish or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened pineapple-coconut jello
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the jello in the boiling water.
2. Add the cold water and stir until dissolved.
3. Stir in the cranberries, coconut, and pecans.
4. Pour into a 9×13 inch dish or individual cups.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just refrigerate and serve.
Cranberry Jello Salad with Marshmallows
A classic Thanksgiving side dish that’s easy to make and perfect for the holiday season. This Cranberry Jello Salad with Marshmallows is a refreshing and fruity accompaniment to your Turkey Day feast.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cranberry jello
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the cranberry jello in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until the mixture is clear.
3. Chill until slightly thickened, about 30 minutes.
4. Fold in whipped cream, marshmallows, and nuts (if using).
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cranberry Jello Salad with Cottage Cheese
This refreshing salad combines the tangy sweetness of cranberries with the creaminess of cottage cheese, perfect for a light and easy dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cranberry jello
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup cottage cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the cranberry jello in the boiling water.
2. Add the cold water to the bowl and stir until the jello is fully dissolved.
3. Refrigerate the mixture until it reaches a gel-like consistency, about 30 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the cottage cheese and sugar. Mix well.
5. Fold the cottage cheese mixture into the cranberry jello mixture.
6. Sprinkle with chopped pecans, if desired.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Servings: 4-6
Cranberry Jello Salad with Pistachios
This refreshing salad is perfect for the holiday season, combining the tartness of cranberries with the crunch of pistachios. It’s an easy and impressive side dish that pairs well with turkey or ham.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cranberry Jello
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the Jello in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until the mixture is fully dissolved.
3. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
4. Just before serving, whip heavy cream with sugar until stiff peaks form.
5. Fold whipped cream into the cooled Jello mixture.
6. Stir in chopped cranberries and pistachios.
7. Chill for an additional 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Servings: 8-10
Cranberry Jello Salad with Greek Yogurt
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of cranberries with the tanginess of Greek yogurt, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup boiling water
• 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cranberry jello
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley or chives
• 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, dissolve the cranberry jello in the boiling water.
2. Add the cold water and stir until the jello is fully dissolved.
3. Refrigerate until chilled and slightly set, about 30 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt and honey until well combined.
5. Fold in the chopped parsley or chives.
6. Once the cranberry jello has cooled, fold it into the yogurt mixture until fully incorporated.
7. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is chilled and served.
Cranberry Jello Salad with Honey Drizzle
A refreshing and flavorful side dish perfect for holiday gatherings or potlucks, this Cranberry Jello Salad is a crowd-pleaser. The tangy cranberries and sweet honey drizzle create a delightful combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cranberry Jell-O
– 1 cup cold water
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– Honey drizzle: 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add cold water and stir until dissolved.
3. Refrigerate until chilled and set, about 3 hours.
4. Fold in chopped cranberries, heavy cream or half-and-half, and sugar.
5. To make honey drizzle, mix honey and warm water until smooth.
6. Drizzle over the salad just before serving.
Cooking Time: None (chilled)
Cranberry Jello Salad with Cinnamon Spice
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of cranberries with the warmth of cinnamon and spices, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion. With its vibrant red color and tangy flavor, this recipe is sure to delight your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened cranberry Jello
– 1 cup cold water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped fresh cranberries
Instructions:
1. Dissolve the Jello in boiling water, then add cold water and stir until dissolved.
2. Add sugar, heavy cream, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until sugar is dissolved.
3. Refrigerate until chilled, about 3 hours.
4. Just before serving, fold in chopped cranberries.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None (as this is a no-bake recipe)
Summary
Get ready to impress your holiday guests with these 20 refreshing cranberry jello salads! From classic combinations like Cranberry Orange Jello Salad with Walnuts, to festive and fruity options like Sparkling Cranberry Jello Salad, there’s something for everyone. These easy-to-make recipes combine the tangy sweetness of cranberries with a variety of textures and flavors, from creamy cream cheese to crunchy pecans. Whether you’re looking for a light and refreshing side dish or a show-stopping centerpiece, these cranberry jello salads are sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
