The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a show-stopping centerpiece that’s both delicious and visually appealing? Cranberry molds are a classic wintertime treat that can be dressed up or down depending on your party style. With their vibrant red color and gelatinous texture, they’re sure to impress your guests. In this article, we’ll share 18 festive cranberry mold recipes perfect for the holidays. From classics like Cranberry Jelly Mold to creative combinations like Cranberry Pineapple Cream Cheese Mold, we’ve got you covered with a range of flavors and textures to suit every taste.
Classic Cranberry Jelly Mold
A timeless holiday treat that’s perfect for your next gathering. This elegant jelly mold is a simple and delicious way to showcase the flavors of cranberries and orange zest.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped
– Orange zest, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the mixture has thickened.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the softened gelatin, orange juice, and salt. Let it cool slightly.
4. Pour the mixture into a jelly mold or a 9×13-inch baking dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
5. Unmold the jelly onto a serving plate. Top with whipped cream and garnish with orange zest.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Orange Cranberry Mold with Walnuts
This vibrant and flavorful dessert combines the sweetness of orange and cranberries with the crunch of walnuts, perfect for a holiday gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
– 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup cold water and let it soften for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, sugar, orange juice, and softened gelatin. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cranberries and grated orange zest. Let it cool slightly.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch serving dish or mold. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
5. Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the top of the mold.
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours (depending on the temperature)
Spiced Cranberry and Apple Mold
This elegant dessert combines the flavors of sweet apples and tart cranberries with warm spices, perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 cups chopped apple (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add chopped apple and stir until well combined.
4. Pour in heavy cream and melted butter; bring mixture to a boil over medium heat.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes or until cranberries have popped and the mixture has thickened.
6. Pour the spiced cranberry and apple mixture into a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the filling is bubbly and lightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cranberry Lime Gelatin Mold
A refreshing and tangy dessert perfect for the holiday season! This Cranberry Lime Gelatin Mold is a great alternative to traditional fruit salads or heavy desserts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
– 1 cup boiling water
– 2 envelopes (0.25 oz each) unflavored gelatin
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 cup cold water
– Lime zest and wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it soften for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries and boiling water. Remove from heat and let steep for 10-15 minutes or until the cranberries are soft.
3. Strain the cranberry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl, pressing on the solids to extract as much juice as possible. Discard the solids.
4. Add the sugar, lime juice, and softened gelatin to the cranberry juice. Stir until the gelatin is fully dissolved.
5. Pour the mixture into small individual molds or a 9×13 inch pan. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cranberry Pineapple Cream Cheese Mold
This sweet and tangy dessert is perfect for the holiday season, combining the flavors of cranberries, pineapple, and cream cheese in a creamy mold.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cranberries
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
3. Add sugar, pineapple juice, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
4. Stir in chopped cranberries and heavy cream.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9-inch springform pan lined with parchment paper.
6. Top with crushed graham crackers.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are set.
8. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cranberry Raspberry Layered Mold
Elevate your holiday dessert game with this show-stopping Cranberry Raspberry Layered Mold, featuring a velvety cranberry filling, tangy raspberry sauce, and a crunchy cookie crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 (12 oz) package white chocolate chips
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
– 1 cup raspberry preserves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add melted butter; stir until combined.
3. Press dough into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
4. Melt white chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in heavy cream until smooth.
5. Pour cranberry filling (see below) over the cookie crust.
6. Drizzle raspberry preserves over the cranberry layer.
7. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Cranberry Filling:
1. Combine fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, and orange juice in a medium bowl. Let sit for 30 minutes to allow cranberries to release their liquid.
2. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Cranberry Orange Dream Mold
This creamy mold is a perfect blend of tangy cranberries and sweet orange, ideal for the holiday season. With its smooth texture and vibrant color, it’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated orange zest
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers (for crust)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix sugar, orange zest, and orange juice until well combined.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the sugar mixture until smooth.
4. Stir in cranberry sauce, vanilla extract, and salt.
5. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large mold lined with crushed graham crackers.
6. Chill for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed! This dessert is served chilled.
Cranberry Pomegranate Sparkling Mold
This refreshing dessert is perfect for the holiday season. A sweet and tangy combination of cranberries, pomegranate juice, and sparkling water creates a delightful treat that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pomegranate juice
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
– 1 tablespoon orange zest
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Sparkling water (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries pop and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and stir in pomegranate juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract. Let cool to room temperature.
3. Spoon the cranberry mixture into small individual molds or glasses.
4. Top each mold with whipped cream.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
6. If desired, add a splash of sparkling water just before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cranberry Almond Gelatin Mold
This elegant dessert is perfect for the holiday season. A flavorful combination of cranberries, almonds, and gelatin creates a delightful treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups boiling water
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unsweetened gelatin
– 1/2 cup almond extract
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it soften for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and boiling water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes or until the cranberries have popped and the mixture has thickened.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the softened gelatin until dissolved.
4. Add the almond extract and food coloring (if using). Stir well.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch pan or a gelatin mold. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Just before serving, sprinkle with sliced almonds.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes + refrigeration time
Cranberry Coconut Cream Mold
This Cranberry Coconut Cream Mold is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of coconut cream with the tanginess of cranberries. Perfect for the holiday season, this mold is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the sweetened condensed milk, shredded coconut, and cranberries.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the coconut-cranberry mixture until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×5-inch mold or a 6-cup jello mold.
5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Just before serving, sprinkle with chopped pecans if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
Cranberry Gingerbread Mold
Transform your holiday gatherings with this deliciously moist cranberry gingerbread mold, perfect for serving at parties or as a festive centerpiece.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup light brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 tablespoon crystallized ginger, finely chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter and eggs until smooth. Add cranberries and ginger; mix well.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Cranberry Peach Layered Mold
This refreshing dessert combines the sweetness of peaches with the tartness of cranberries, creating a delightful and visually appealing layered mold.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
– 2 cups mixed berries (cranberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with the mixed berries and honey until well combined.
3. Layer the ingredients in a 9-inch (23cm) mold or glass container: cream cheese mixture, diced peaches, whipped cream, repeat.
4. Top with granulated sugar and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2 hours (refrigeration time)
Cranberry Vanilla Yogurt Mold
A refreshing and tangy dessert perfect for the holiday season, this Cranberry Vanilla Yogurt Mold is a delightful twist on traditional panna cotta.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup plain vanilla yogurt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– Fresh cranberries and orange zest for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the yogurt, heavy cream, sugar, and salt until smooth.
2. Stir in the cranberry sauce and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into small individual serving cups or ramekins.
4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
5. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cranberries and orange zest if desired.
Cooking Time: 4 hours or overnight
Cranberry Mint Jelly Mold
This refreshing dessert combines the tartness of cranberries with the cooling flavor of mint, all set in a delicate jelly mold.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon unflavored gelatin
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it soften for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the berries have popped and the mixture has thickened slightly.
3. Strain the cranberry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, pressing on the solids to extract as much juice as possible.
4. Add the softened gelatin and mint leaves to the cranberry juice. Stir until the gelatin is fully dissolved.
5. Pour the mixture into a jelly mold or a 9×13-inch baking dish. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cranberry Lemon Chiffon Mold
This refreshing dessert combines the sweetness of lemon with the tartness of cranberries, all wrapped up in a light and airy chiffon mold. Perfect for a warm-weather gathering or a seasonal treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup (120ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (50g) fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar and egg whites until stiff peaks form.
3. Add lemon juice, heavy cream, chopped cranberries, and vanilla extract; gently fold until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into an ungreased 9-inch (23cm) mold or pie dish.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cranberry Cherry Swirl Mold
A vibrant and flavorful dessert perfect for the holiday season, this Cranberry Cherry Swirl Mold combines sweet and tangy flavors in a beautiful presentation.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup (250ml) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup (120g) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup (120g) cherry filling (such as Maraschino cherries)
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Press mixture into a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Bake crust for 10 minutes. Let cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk and beaten egg.
4. Fold in cranberries and cherry filling.
5. Pour mixture over cooled crust and smooth top.
6. Bake for an additional 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Cranberry Pistachio Delight Mold
A sweet and tangy dessert perfect for the holiday season, this Cranberry Pistachio Delight Mold is a show-stopping centerpiece for any gathering. With its combination of fresh cranberries, crunchy pistachios, and creamy mascarpone cheese, it’s sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries and sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until cranberries pop and mixture thickens (about 10 minutes).
2. Stir in pistachios, cream cheese, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt.
3. Pour mixture into a 9×5-inch loaf pan or individual mold shapes.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to set.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cranberry Honey Spice Mold
This elegant dessert combines the sweetness of honey with the tartness of cranberries, all wrapped up in a delicate gelatin mold. Perfect for a festive holiday gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups cranberries (fresh or frozen)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 envelope unflavored gelatin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it soften for 5 minutes.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, cranberries, honey, and boiling water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the softened gelatin until dissolved.
4. Add the cinnamon and nutmeg; let mixture cool slightly.
5. Pour into a 6-cup mold or individual cups. Refrigerate until set, at least 3 hours or overnight.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh cranberries if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your guests with these 18 festive cranberry mold recipes perfect for the holiday season. From classic jelly molds to creative combinations with fruit, nuts, and spices, there’s something for everyone. Try making a Spiced Cranberry and Apple Mold or a Cranberry Lime Gelatin Mold for a refreshing twist. Or, go all out with a Cranberry Pineapple Cream Cheese Mold or a Cranberry Raspberry Layered Mold for a show-stopping centerpiece. Whatever you choose, your holiday gathering is sure to be merry and bright!
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