Festive Cranberry Salad is a bright, sweet, and tangy dish that adds color and cheer to any holiday spread. Bursting with fresh cranberries, juicy pineapple, crisp apples, and fluffy whipped topping, this salad is both refreshing and creamy. It’s a classic side dish that bridges the gap between sweet and savory — perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any winter gathering. Served chilled, it balances the richness of holiday meals while adding a hint of sparkle to your plate.
2. Ingredients
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1 (12-ounce) bag fresh cranberries
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¾ cup granulated sugar
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1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
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1 medium apple, finely chopped
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½ cup chopped celery
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½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
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1 (8-ounce) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
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1 (3-ounce) package strawberry or raspberry gelatin (optional for a firmer texture)
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1 cup boiling water (only if using gelatin)
3. Instructions
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Prepare the cranberries:
Rinse the cranberries and remove any soft or bruised ones. Place them in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped, but not puréed. Transfer to a large bowl. -
Sweeten the mixture:
Stir sugar into the chopped cranberries and let it sit for 1 hour. This allows the cranberries to release their natural juices and soften slightly. -
Add fruit and nuts:
Mix in crushed pineapple, chopped apple, celery, and nuts. Stir until everything is well combined. -
Optional gelatin step (for a firmer salad):
If you prefer a molded version, dissolve the gelatin in boiling water, stir until smooth, then let it cool to room temperature. Once cool, add it to the cranberry mixture and stir well. -
Fold in whipped topping:
Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully incorporated and the salad turns light and fluffy. -
Chill the salad:
Spoon the mixture into a serving dish or individual cups. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until cold and set. -
Serve:
Garnish with extra whipped cream, chopped nuts, or a few whole cranberries before serving.
4. Preparation Time
Prep: 20 minutes
Rest/Chill: 3 hours
Total: 3 hours 20 minutes
5. Serving
Serves 8–10 people
6. Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 210 kcal
Protein: 2 g
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 34 g
Sugar: 29 g
Sodium: 45 mg
7. Tips
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Use frozen cranberries if fresh aren’t available — just thaw before chopping.
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Add marshmallows for extra sweetness and a fun texture.
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For a lighter version, use sugar-free gelatin and light whipped topping.
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Make ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
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Serve chilled: Always keep refrigerated until just before serving for the best texture.
8. Final Thought
Festive Cranberry Salad is the perfect mix of sweet, tart, and creamy — a cheerful holiday dish that brightens any table. With its jewel-toned color and refreshing flavor, it pairs beautifully with roast meats or stands alone as a light dessert. Whether you make it fluffy with whipped topping or firm with gelatin, it’s a timeless favorite that tastes like the holidays in every spoonful.
