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Cranberry Jell-O Salad

I made this easy cranberry Jell-O salad for Thanksgiving and it was the most popular dish we had! Cherry-flavored gelatin teams up with jellied cranberry sauce and crushed pineapple for a fruity flavor that can't be beat.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Course lunch/dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 12 people
Calories 1604.9 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl
  • 1 Whisk or Large Spoon For stirring ingredients
  • 1 Measuring Cup For boiling water
  • 1 Can Opener For cranberry sauce and pineapple
  • 1 Large glass serving dish or individual dishes For chilling and presentation

Ingredients
  

Main

  • 2 cups boiling water
  • 2 0.3-ounce packages sugar-free cherry-flavored gelatin mix (such as Jell-O)
  • 1 16-ounce can jellied cranberry sauce
  • 1 20-ounce can crushed pineapple, drained
  • ½ cup chopped pecans

Instructions
 

  • Gather all ingredients. ALLRECIPES / DIANA CHISTRUGA
  • Combine boiling water and gelatin mix in a bowl; stir until gelatin is dissolved. ALLRECIPES / DIANA CHISTRUGA
  • Stir in cranberry sauce and crushed pineapple. ALLRECIPES / DIANA CHISTRUGA
  • Transfer to a large glass serving dish or 12 individual dishes. Sprinkle pecans on top. ALLRECIPES / DIANA CHISTRUGA
  • Chill until set, 3 to 4 hours for individual dishes, or 4 hours to overnight for one large serving dish. ALLRECIPES / DIANA CHISTRUGA

Notes

1. Ensure the boiling water is truly at a rolling boil to fully dissolve the gelatin mix, preventing a grainy texture. Stir vigorously for at least 2 minutes. 2. For best results, allow the canned jellied cranberry sauce and drained crushed pineapple to come to room temperature before adding to the gelatin mixture. This helps prevent the gelatin from setting prematurely and ensures even distribution. 3. If a smoother texture is desired, gently mash the jellied cranberry sauce before incorporating it. 4. For an elevated presentation, consider garnishing with fresh mint or a dollop of whipped cream just before serving. A touch of orange zest can also brighten the flavor profile.