This Festive Cranberry Salad is a timeless holiday favorite — bright, fruity, and full of nostalgic flavor. It’s not your typical canned cranberry jelly, but a vibrant combination of tangy cranberries, juicy pineapple, fresh orange, and crunchy pecans all set in a sparkling cherry Jell-O base. The result is a sweet-tart salad that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas, and even better made the night before, this recipe adds a refreshing, colorful touch to your holiday table.

Ingredients

• 1 package (3 oz) cherry Jell-O
• 1 cup hot water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 cup drained crushed pineapple (from an 8 oz can)
• ½ to 1 cup pineapple juice (use reserved juice, top with water if needed)
• 1 cup fresh cranberries, finely ground or chopped
• 1 medium orange, partially peeled, seeded, and ground
• ½ cup chopped pecans (lightly toasted for extra flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit Mixture

Rinse the cranberries thoroughly and pat them dry. Slice the orange into chunks, keeping a little peel for brightness and a hint of citrus bitterness. Place both cranberries and orange pieces in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped — not pureed. The small bits add great texture. Transfer to a bowl, sprinkle with a tablespoon of sugar, and let sit for 10 minutes while you prepare the gelatin. This softens the cranberries and balances their tartness.

Step 2: Make the Gelatin Base

In a large heatproof bowl, pour 1 cup boiling water over the cherry Jell-O powder. Stir for about 2 minutes until fully dissolved. Add the sugar, lemon juice, and pineapple juice, stirring well until smooth and evenly blended.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Add the drained crushed pineapple to the Jell-O mixture. Then fold in the cranberry-orange blend and chopped pecans. If you prefer a more intense nutty flavor, toast the pecans in a dry pan for 2–3 minutes before adding them. Stir everything gently until evenly mixed.

Step 4: Chill Overnight

Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch glass dish or decorative mold. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (at least 8 hours) until firm. This step allows the flavors to meld and gives the salad its classic smooth, jiggly texture.

Tips for Success

• Chill thoroughly: The longer it sets, the better the flavor and texture.
• Taste and adjust: If you prefer a sweeter salad, add 2–3 extra tablespoons of sugar.
• Use a glass dish: Avoid metal pans, as they can alter the flavor of citrus-based gelatin.
• Creative additions: Add diced apples, chopped celery, or mini marshmallows for a retro twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve cold, straight from the refrigerator. Cut into neat squares or unmold onto a platter for a classic presentation. Garnish with orange zest, fresh mint leaves, or a few whole cranberries for a festive touch. It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or any rich main dish — and it’s sweet enough to serve as a light dessert with a dollop of whipped cream.

Storage and Make-Ahead Notes

• Refrigerate: Store covered for up to 4 days.
• Do not freeze: Freezing breaks the gelatin structure and changes the texture.
• Make-ahead: Best prepared the night before to allow flavors to fully develop.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes! Thaw and drain them before grinding to avoid excess liquid.

Q: What if I don’t have a food processor?
You can finely chop the cranberries and orange by hand — it takes longer, but the rustic texture is worth it.

Q: Can I use a different Jell-O flavor?
Definitely! Raspberry or cranberry Jell-O gives a tangier twist, while strawberry makes it sweeter.

Q: My salad didn’t set — what happened?
The gelatin likely wasn’t fully dissolved, or there was too much liquid. Always measure carefully and stir until smooth.

Q: How do I make this nut-free?
Simply omit the pecans or substitute with sunflower seeds or chopped apples for crunch.

Q: Is this a dessert or a side dish?
Traditionally, it’s served as a side dish, but it’s sweet and fruity enough to double as a refreshing dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A True Holiday Classic: Loved for generations and always the first to disappear from the table.
• Bright, Festive Flavors: The perfect balance of tart cranberries, sweet pineapple, and zesty orange.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it the night before and focus on your main dishes the next day.
• Versatile & Family-Friendly: Ideal for both casual gatherings and elegant holiday dinners.
• Beautiful Presentation: Its ruby-red color and glossy finish make it a show-stopping centerpiece.

This cranberry salad brings a nostalgic charm to any holiday spread — sweet, tangy, and delightfully jiggly, it’s the kind of recipe that feels like home with every bite.