Creative Cranberry Jell-O

Creative Cranberry Jell-O Recipe - Made in USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 12

Introduction

Creative Cranberry Jell-O is a delicious and unique dessert that combines the tartness of cranberries with the creaminess of sour cream and the crunch of walnuts. This recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you want to impress your guests with a creative and tasty treat.

History

The origins of this recipe are unclear, but it is likely a modern twist on traditional Jell-O salads that were popular in the mid-20th century. The combination of cranberries, sour cream, and walnuts creates a delightful flavor and texture contrast that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Ingredients

2 packs (4 serving size) of sugar-free cranberry jello, divided
2 cups of boiling water, divided
1 cup of cranberry juice
1 can (1 lb or 454 g) of whole-berry cranberry sauce
1 cup of fat-free sour cream
0.25 cup of chopped walnuts

How to prepare

Place 1 package of gelatin in a large bowl and stir in 1 cup of boiling water until the gelatin is dissolved.
Add cranberry juice.
Allow the mixture to cool for about 15 minutes, then add cranberry sauce.
Pour the mixture into a 13x9x2 inch baking dish and let it set until firm in the refrigerator.
In a small bowl, combine the remaining package of gelatin and the remaining 1 cup of boiling water; stir until the gelatin is dissolved.
Allow it to cool for about 15 minutes, then add sour cream and walnuts.
When the first layer is firm, spread the second layer on top and refrigerate until set, for at least 1 hour.
Cut into squares before serving.

Variations

Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a tangier flavor.
Add a splash of orange juice or zest for a citrusy twist.
Mix in diced apples or pears for added texture and sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to allow each layer of Jell-O to set completely before adding the next layer to ensure a clean and distinct separation of flavors.

- For a more festive touch, garnish the top of the Jell-O with fresh cranberries or a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.

- Experiment with different types of nuts, such as pecans or almonds, for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Creative Cranberry Jell-O as a light and refreshing dessert after a holiday meal or as a sweet treat for a special occasion.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to follow the instructions for allowing each layer of Jell-O to set before adding the next layer to ensure a clean and distinct separation of flavors.

- Use a sharp knife to cut the Jell-O into squares for easy serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any flavor of Jell-O that you prefer for a different twist on this recipe.

- Swap out the walnuts for pecans, almonds, or any other nut of your choice.

Make Ahead Tips

Creative Cranberry Jell-O can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Simply cut into squares before serving for a quick and easy dessert option.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the top of the Jell-O with fresh cranberries, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or a dollop of whipped cream for a festive and elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Creative Cranberry Jell-O with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful dessert pairing that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Creative Cranberry Jell-O in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply allow the Jell-O to come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Creative Cranberry Jell-O contains approximately 150 calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence that can be enjoyed as a dessert or snack.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Creative Cranberry Jell-O contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates, making it a sweet treat that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Fats

With the addition of sour cream and walnuts, each serving of Creative Cranberry Jell-O contains approximately 5 grams of fat, providing a creamy and satisfying texture to this dessert.

Proteins

Each serving of Creative Cranberry Jell-O contains approximately 2 grams of protein, making it a light and refreshing option for those looking to add a touch of sweetness to their meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Cranberries are a good source of vitamin C and fiber, providing a boost of antioxidants and digestive health benefits to this tasty dessert.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts and dairy in the form of walnuts and sour cream, so be sure to check for any allergies or dietary restrictions before serving.

Summary

Creative Cranberry Jell-O is a delicious and nutritious dessert option that provides a balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals in each serving.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that washed over me when I found this recipe for Creative Cranberry Jell-O. It was tucked away in an old recipe book that I had inherited from my own grandmother. The pages were yellowed with age and the handwriting was faded, but the words were still clear enough for me to read.

As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. I had always loved trying out new recipes and experimenting in the kitchen, so the idea of making a unique cranberry Jell-O dish was incredibly appealing to me.

I decided to give the recipe a try and set out to gather all the necessary ingredients. The list was simple enough - cranberries, gelatin, sugar, and a few other basic items that I already had in my pantry.

I started by simmering the cranberries in a pot of water until they were soft and had released their juices. The smell that filled my kitchen was sweet and tart, a reminder of the upcoming holiday season.

Once the cranberries had cooked down, I strained them through a fine mesh sieve to remove any remaining skins or seeds. The resulting puree was a vibrant shade of red, and I couldn't help but marvel at the beauty of nature's bounty.

Next, I added the gelatin to the cranberry puree and stirred until it had dissolved completely. The sugar was then mixed in, adding a touch of sweetness to balance out the tartness of the cranberries.

I poured the mixture into a mold and placed it in the refrigerator to set. As I waited for the Jell-O to firm up, I thought back to my grandmother and wondered how she had come across this recipe.

I remembered her telling me stories of her own culinary adventures, how she had traveled the world and learned to cook from different cultures and cuisines. Perhaps she had picked up this recipe during her travels, or maybe it had been passed down to her from a friend or family member.

Regardless of its origins, I was grateful to have stumbled upon this recipe and to be able to carry on the tradition of creating something delicious and unique in my own kitchen.

When the Jell-O had finally set, I carefully unmolded it onto a serving platter. The shape was perfect, the texture smooth and jiggly. I couldn't wait to taste it.

I took a small bite and was immediately transported to a world of sweet and tangy flavors. The cranberries were bold and bright, the gelatin perfectly set. It was a dish unlike any I had ever tasted before, and I knew it would become a staple at my holiday table for years to come.

As I savored each mouthful, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and connection to my grandmother. Though she was no longer with me, her spirit lived on in the kitchen, guiding me as I continued to explore new recipes and create delicious meals for my own family.

And so, the recipe for Creative Cranberry Jell-O became not just a dish on my table, but a cherished memory of the past and a link to the generations that came before me. It was a reminder of the power of food to bring people together, to create lasting traditions, and to fill our hearts and bellies with love.