My very similar recipe calls for a large pkg of strawberry jello, 1 Cup boiling water, 1 can whole cranberry (which has thickener in it as well), 1 can mandarin oranges, 1 15 oz can crushed pineapple and 1/3 to 1/2 cup chopped nuts (peacans or walnuts work well). I always drain both the mandarin oranges and the crushed pinapple and reserve their comingled juices, then I add about half the saved amount of liquid to the mixture. Spoon everything in to a 6 cup mold that has been sprayed with pam and let set overnight. I never had any problem with it setting up or holding its shape during a meal. It is a must at any turkey meal and very refreshing.