Cranberry Heaven

12 servings Prep: 15 m Cook: PT0M Total: 15 m Beginner
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Cranberry Heaven
Great for potluck, holiday affairs or family gatherings, this frozen cranberry dessert combines tart cranberry sauce with sweet pineapple, pecans, and marshmallows for a no-bake make-ahead treat that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

12 servings
  • 1 (12 oz) can condensed milk
  • 1 (16 oz) can crushed pineapple
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1 (16 oz) can whole berry cranberry sauce
  • 2 cups marshmallow
  • 1/2 cup pecans
  • 1 (16 oz) carton whipped topping
  • Maraschino cherries to top
  • Fresh cranberries can be added for richer flavor (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. In a medium glass bowl, combine condensed milk and lemon juice. Stir until well mixed.
  2. Add the crushed pineapple (undrained), cranberry sauce, marshmallows and pecans. Mix well.
  3. Fold in whipped topping until fully incorporated.
  4. Spread mixture into a 9x13 inch pan and decorate with additional nuts and/or maraschino cherries if desired.
  5. Cover and freeze overnight or until firm, at least 6-8 hours.
  6. Remove from freezer 5-10 minutes before serving to allow for easier slicing.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my cranberry heaven too icy or hard?

A: Make sure you're using sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated milk) and full-fat whipped topping. These ingredients help create a creamy texture that doesn't freeze solid. Also, let it sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! This dessert actually needs to be made ahead since it requires overnight freezing. You can make it up to a week in advance and keep it covered in the freezer.

Tips and Techniques

For the best texture, make sure your whipped topping is fully thawed before folding it in. Drain the pineapple slightly if it’s very watery, but leave some juice for moisture. This dessert can also be frozen in individual serving cups for easier portion control at large gatherings.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • whipped topping: homemade whipped cream (2 cups heavy cream, whipped with 1/4 cup powdered sugar)
  • canned cranberry sauce: homemade cranberry sauce, cooled
  • marshmallows: mini marshmallows work best, but you can chop regular-sized marshmallows

Equipment Needed

  • 9x13 inch pan
  • medium glass bowl
  • rubber spatula for folding

Historical Context

Frozen fruit desserts like this became popular in the South during the 1960s and 70s when home freezers became more common. The combination of cranberry and pineapple made it a natural fit for holiday tables, where it serves as both a dessert and a sweet salad course.