Mom's Thanksgiving Cranberry Jello Mold Recipe

A Thanksgiving tradition passed down through generations! This vibrant cranberry Jello mold, a family favorite since the 1960s, is surprisingly easy to make. A neighbor in Omaha shared this recipe with my mom, and it's been a holiday staple ever since. This recipe features crunchy walnuts – please be mindful of nut allergies among your guests. Make it ahead! Prepare this delightful mold two days before Thanksgiving for stress-free holiday hosting. Simply chill, unmold, and serve.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 80 mins
Calories 155.9 kcal
Protein 4g
Rating Be the first
Mom's Thanksgiving Cranberry Jello Mold 36

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Forktionary editorial kitchen team

The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Mom's Thanksgiving Cranberry Jello Mold

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How to Make Mom's Thanksgiving Cranberry Jello Mold

  1. In a large bowl, dissolve 2 (3-ounce) packages of cranberry-flavored gelatin in 2 cups of boiling water.
  2. Stir in 1 cup of cold water and 1 (16-ounce) can of whole berry cranberry sauce.
  3. Blend thoroughly and refrigerate until slightly thickened but not fully set (about 30 minutes).
  4. Gently fold in 1 cup diced apples, 1/2 cup diced celery, and 1/2 cup chopped walnuts.
  5. Lightly grease a 3-cup Jello mold with vegetable oil spray.
  6. Pour the Jello mixture into the prepared mold.
  7. Refrigerate until completely set (at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight).
  8. To unmold, run the mold under warm water for a few seconds and invert onto a serving plate. Garnish with fresh parsley sprigs.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

3 g

Sugar

116g

Fat

1g

Carbs

10g

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Mom's Thanksgiving Cranberry Jello Mold?

Mom's Thanksgiving Cranberry Jello Mold takes about 100 minutes from start to finish — roughly 20 minutes to prepare and 80 minutes to cook.

How many calories are in Mom's Thanksgiving Cranberry Jello Mold?

Mom's Thanksgiving Cranberry Jello Mold has approximately 155.9 calories per serving, with about 4 g protein, 10 g carbohydrates and 5 g fat.

What ingredients do I need for Mom's Thanksgiving Cranberry Jello Mold?

The key ingredients for Mom's Thanksgiving Cranberry Jello Mold are Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce, Jello Gelatin, Water, Red Apples, Celery, Walnuts. See the full list with measurements above.

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