A classic holiday favorite! This beautiful, fruity Jello salad combines sweet-tart raspberry or cherry gelatin, juicy crushed pineapple, refreshing orange juice and crunchy pecans. It’s easy to prepare, requires no baking and makes a wonderful addition to Thanksgiving, Christmas or family dinners.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: At least 6 hours
Total time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8–10 people
1. Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Finely chopped pecans | 1 cup |
| Boiling water | 1 cup |
| Raspberry or cherry Jell-O | 1 package (6 oz / 170 g) |
| Cold water | ¾ cup |
| Orange juice | ¼ cup |
| Crushed pineapple, undrained | 1 can (20 oz / 565 g) |
| Extra chopped pecans | For topping (optional) |
Note: The pictured recipe is titled Cranberry Jello Salad, but it uses raspberry or cherry gelatin rather than cranberry gelatin.
2. Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 – Dissolve the gelatin
In a large heatproof mixing bowl, pour 1 cup of boiling water over the raspberry or cherry Jell-O powder.
Stir continuously until the gelatin is completely dissolved and no granules remain.
Step 2 – Add the cold liquids
Add ¾ cup of cold water and ¼ cup of orange juice.
Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 3 – Add the pineapple
Add the entire can of crushed pineapple, including its juice.
Mix gently until evenly distributed throughout the gelatin mixture.
Step 4 – Add the pecans
Fold in 1 cup of finely chopped pecans.
Stir gently to distribute the nuts throughout the mixture.
Step 5 – Transfer to a serving bowl
Pour the mixture into a large glass serving bowl or gelatin mold.
Spread evenly and sprinkle additional chopped pecans over the top if desired.
Step 6 – Refrigerate
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, until completely firm.
Step 7 – Serve and enjoy
Once fully set, remove from the refrigerator and serve chilled.
Scoop into individual bowls and enjoy this delicious, fruity holiday salad!
3. Tips for the perfect Jello salad
- Make sure the gelatin is completely dissolved before adding the cold ingredients.
- Use crushed pineapple with its juice for extra fruity flavor.
- Chop the pecans finely for a better texture.
- Refrigerate overnight for the best results.
- Don’t freeze the salad, as freezing can damage its gelatin texture.
- For a creamier variation, serve with a dollop of whipped cream.
4. Delicious variations
- Cranberry version: Add 1 cup of chopped fresh or canned cranberries.
- Cherry version: Use cherry Jell-O and add chopped maraschino cherries.
- Raspberry version: Use raspberry Jell-O for a sweet-tart flavor.
- Creamy version: Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping after the gelatin has partially thickened.
- Extra crunchy: Add chopped walnuts along with the pecans.
5. Storage instructions
- Refrigerator: Keep covered and refrigerated for 3–4 days.
- Make ahead: Prepare it the night before your holiday gathering.
- Serving: Keep chilled until ready to serve.