Cranberry Walnut Salad Recipe

A beloved family recipe, perfected over 60 years! This vibrant cranberry walnut salad boasts a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors, with a refreshing texture that's perfect for holidays or any special occasion. Easy to make, yet elegant enough to impress, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 120 mins
Calories 169.6 kcal
Protein 3g
Rating 5.0 (5 Reviews)
Cranberry Walnut Salad 34

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Cranberry Walnut Salad

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How to Make Cranberry Walnut Salad

  1. Bloom the gelatin: In a medium bowl, sprinkle 1 packet (1 tablespoon) of unflavored gelatin over 1/2 cup cold water. Let stand for 5 minutes to soften.
  2. Make the sugar syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring until sugar dissolves.
  3. Combine and chill: Remove the syrup from heat and immediately pour it over the bloomed gelatin. Stir until completely dissolved. Add 1 (12 ounce) can cranberry sauce and 1/2 cup cranberry juice. Stir to combine.
  4. Refrigerate: Transfer the mixture to the refrigerator and chill until it begins to thicken, about 30-40 minutes. The mixture should be slightly set but still pourable.
  5. Fold in additions: Gently fold in 1 cup chopped walnuts, 1/2 cup miniature marshmallows (optional), and 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional).
  6. Set the mold: Pour the mixture into a 9x13 inch mold or individual serving dishes.
  7. Final chill: Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until completely firm.
  8. Serve and enjoy: Unmold the salad and serve chilled. Garnish with extra walnuts or pecans if desired.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

0 g

Sugar

115g

Fat

2g

Carbs

10g