Indulge in the vibrant and tantalizing Cranberry Marshmallow Gelatin Salad, a dessert that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. This delightful salad combines the tangy taste of cranberries with the sweetness of marshmallows, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients and Substitutions
The beauty of this salad lies in its simplicity and the room for customization. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cherry and lemon gelatin
- Jelled cranberry sauce
- Cream cheese
- Vanilla extract
- Mandarin oranges, drained
- Crushed pineapple, drained
- Cranberry Sprite (or lemon-lime soda)
- Chopped pecans
- Mini marshmallows
- Cool Whip
Feel free to experiment with substitutions to suit your taste. For instance, if you’re looking for a similar recipe with a twist, explore this Cranberry Jello Salad Recipe.
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Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Creating this salad is a breeze with these simple steps:
- Dissolve & Mix: Start by dissolving the gelatin in boiling water. Beat the cream cheese and vanilla until fluffy.
- Blend in Flavors: Add the gelatin, cranberry sauce, pineapple, oranges, soda, and pecans. Mix well.
- Chill & Set: Let the mixture chill until slightly thickened, then fold in most of the Cool Whip and marshmallows.
- Mold & Refrigerate: Pour into your chosen mold or dish and refrigerate until firm.
- Garnish & Serve: Top with the remaining Cool Whip for a beautiful finish.
For classic cranberry salad inspiration, check out this Classic Cranberry Salad Tips.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
This salad is not just about taste; it’s also about presentation. Here are some ideas to make your dish stand out:
- Serve in individual cups for a personalized touch.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves or extra fruit for added color.
Nutritional Information
While this salad is a treat, it’s also good to be aware of its nutritional content:
- Calories: Approximately 200-300 per serving
- Sugar: High, due to marshmallows and fruit
Pairing with Meals
This versatile salad pairs well with various meals:
- Serve as a dessert after a hearty meal.
- Enjoy as a sweet side dish during holiday feasts.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
To keep your salad fresh:
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Make ahead and chill overnight for best results.
FAQs
- Can I use fresh cranberries instead of canned? Yes, but ensure to sweeten them as fresh cranberries are quite tart.
- How can I make this dessert less sweet? Reduce the amount of marshmallows and use less sugar in the whipped cream.
- What are the best ways to serve this salad? This salad is best served chilled and can be garnished with additional fruits or nuts.

Cranberry Marshmallow Gelatin Salad: Easy & Delicious Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes (Prep + Setting Time in Refrigerator)
- Yield: Serves 8-10
Description
It’s a perfect blend of fruity, creamy, and nutty flavors that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- Cherry and lemon gelatin
- Jelled cranberry sauce
- Cream cheese
- Vanilla extract
- Mandarin oranges, drained
- Crushed pineapple, drained
- Cranberry Sprite (or lemon-lime soda)
- Chopped pecans
- Mini marshmallows
- Cool Whip
Instructions
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Creating this salad is a breeze with these simple steps:
- Dissolve & Mix: Start by dissolving the gelatin in boiling water. Beat the cream cheese and vanilla until fluffy.
- Blend in Flavors: Add the gelatin, cranberry sauce, pineapple, oranges, soda, and pecans. Mix well.
- Chill & Set: Let the mixture chill until slightly thickened, then fold in most of the Cool Whip and marshmallows.
- Mold & Refrigerate: Pour into your chosen mold or dish and refrigerate until firm.
- Garnish & Serve: Top with the remaining Cool Whip for a beautiful finish.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
This salad is not just about taste; it’s also about presentation. Here are some ideas to make your dish stand out:
- Serve in individual cups for a personalized touch.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves or extra fruit for added color.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (No-bake)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake, Refrigeration
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1/10 of the recipe)
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Sugar: 20g (varies based on ingredients like marshmallows and canned fruit)
- Sodium: 100mg (estimate, varies with ingredients)
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Cranberry Marshmallow Gelatin Salad, No-bake Dessert, Holiday Salad, Fruit Gelatin, Creamy Marshmallow Salad, Festive Dessert, Easy Gelatin Recipe