Are you ready to elevate your dessert game with a vibrant and refreshing treat that’s perfect for any occasion? Say hello to the Cranberry Pineapple Berry Jello Salad! This delightful dish combines the tangy sweetness of cranberry juice with juicy pineapple chunks and a medley of mixed berries, all set in a luscious Jello base. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or looking for a festive addition to your holiday table, this colorful salad is sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for the recipe. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make—let’s dive into the steps to create this stunning dish that’s as delicious as it is beautiful!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 4 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- Cranberry juice
- Jello powder
- Pineapple chunks
- Mixed berries
- Walnuts
- Cool Whip
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: cranberry juice, Jello powder, pineapple chunks (drained), mixed berries (fresh or frozen), chopped walnuts, and Cool Whip. Make sure your mixed berries are rinsed and dried if using fresh.
- In a large mixing bowl, pour 2 cups of cranberry juice. Heat the juice in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes until it is warm but not boiling. This will help dissolve the Jello powder more easily.
- Once the cranberry juice is warm, gradually whisk in one package of Jello powder (typically 3 oz). Stir continuously until the powder is completely dissolved, ensuring there are no granules left.
- After the Jello powder is fully dissolved, allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes at room temperature. Do not let it sit too long, as it should still be pourable when you add the other ingredients.
- While the Jello mixture is cooling, prepare your fruit. In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of pineapple chunks and 1 cup of mixed berries. If using frozen berries, make sure they are thawed and drained to avoid excess liquid in the salad.
- Once the Jello mixture has cooled slightly, fold in the fruit mixture gently, ensuring that the pineapple and berries are evenly distributed throughout the Jello.
- Next, add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts to the mixture and stir gently to combine. This will add a nice crunch to your salad.
- Pour the entire mixture into a 9x13 inch serving dish or a decorative mold if you prefer. Spread it out evenly with a spatula.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the Jello salad to set for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
- Once the Jello salad has set, remove it from the refrigerator. Before serving, top it with a generous layer of Cool Whip, spreading it evenly over the surface.
- For an extra touch, you can garnish the Cool Whip with a few additional mixed berries or a sprinkle of chopped walnuts.
- Cut the salad into squares or scoop it out if using a mold, and serve chilled. Enjoy your refreshing Cranberry Pineapple Berry Jello Salad!
Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh pineapple and mixed berries. If using frozen berries, make sure they are fully thawed and drained to prevent excess liquid from affecting the Jello's consistency.
- Dissolve Jello Properly: Make sure the cranberry juice is warm but not boiling when you mix in the Jello powder. This helps ensure that the powder dissolves completely, resulting in a smooth and vibrant Jello base.
- Cool Before Mixing: Allow the Jello mixture to cool slightly before folding in the fruit and nuts. This prevents the fruit from getting mushy and keeps the texture of the salad intact.
- Chill for Best Results: Be patient and let the salad set in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures a firm, sliceable salad.
- Garnish Creatively: Before serving, consider garnishing with a few extra berries or a sprinkle of chopped walnuts on top of the Cool Whip for added visual appeal and crunch.
- Serving Suggestions: This Jello salad can be served in individual cups for a fun twist at parties or potlucks, making it easy for guests to enjoy a portion without the need for slicing.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
