Christmas Cranberry Salad Recipe
This Christmas Cranberry Salad is a colourful, creamy and festive favourite made with tart cranberries, sweet pineapple, fluffy mini marshmallows, crunchy pecans, and whipped cream. Perfect for Christmas dinner, this make-ahead salad can be served chilled or frozen for a refreshing and indulgent holiday treat.
Equipment
- 1 Food Processor Or Food Grinder
- 1 Large Mixing Bowl
- 1 Electric Hand Mixer Or Stand Mixer
- 1 Chilled Mixing Bowl
- 1 Large Spatula Or Mixing Spoon
- 1 3-Quart Serving Dish
- 1 Refrigerator Or Freezer
Ingredients
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries - finely ground
- 1½ cups white granulated sugar
- 15 ounces crushed pineapple - well drained
- 12 ounces miniature marshmallows
- ¾ cup chopped pecans - optional
- ¾ pint whipping cream - beaten stiff
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare The Cranberries
- Rinse and drain the cranberries thoroughly.
- Finely grind them using a food processor or grinder.
- Transfer the ground cranberries to a large mixing bowl.
- Add the sugar and stir until evenly combined.
- Cover and refrigerate for 8 hours to overnight.
Step 2: Drain The Pineapple
- Place the crushed pineapple in a fine sieve or colander.
- Press gently to remove excess juice.
- Allow it to drain thoroughly before adding it to the salad.
Step 3: Whip The Cream
- Chill a clean glass or metal mixing bowl if desired.
- Add the whipping cream.
- Beat with an electric mixer until thick and firm peaks form.
- Avoid overbeating the cream.
Step 4: Combine The Fruit And Marshmallows
- Remove the cranberry mixture from the refrigerator.
- Add the well-drained pineapple and miniature marshmallows.
- Add the chopped pecans if using.
- Gently stir until evenly distributed.
Step 5: Fold In The Whipped Cream
- Add the whipped cream to the cranberry mixture.
- Gently fold with a large spatula until evenly incorporated.
- Avoid vigorous stirring so the whipped cream remains light and airy.
Step 6: Chill Or Freeze
- Transfer the mixture to a 3-quart serving dish.
- Smooth the surface and cover securely.
- Refrigerate or freeze for at least 1 hour.
- Refrigerate for a soft, spoonable texture or freeze for a firmer consistency.
Step 7: Serve And Enjoy
- Remove the Christmas Cranberry Salad from the refrigerator or freezer shortly before serving.
- If frozen, allow it to soften slightly before scooping.
- Serve alongside your favourite festive dishes.
Notes
- 🍒 Use Fresh Cranberries: Choose firm, bright-red cranberries for the best colour, flavour and texture in your salad.
- 🍚 Rest The Cranberries: Allow the ground cranberries and sugar to chill overnight so the berries can soften slightly and absorb the sweetness.
- 🍍 Drain the Pineapple: Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly to prevent excess liquid from making the salad watery.
- ☁️ Whip The Cream Well: Beat the whipping cream until stiff peaks form, but avoid over-whipping to keep it smooth and creamy.
- 🥄 Fold Gently: Fold the whipped cream into the cranberry mixture rather than stirring vigorously to maintain its light, fluffy texture.
- 🌰 Add Pecans Carefully: Use finely chopped pecans for a pleasant crunch, or leave them out for a nut-free version.
- ❄️ Chill Before Serving: Refrigerate the finished salad for at least 1 hour before serving to help the flavours meld and the texture set.
- 🎄 Make It Ahead: Prepare this festive salad in advance to save time and reduce stress when getting your Christmas meal ready.