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Rich Walnut Berry Jello Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 68 reviews

This Rich Walnut Berry Jello Salad is a deliciously creamy and fruity dessert featuring a smooth strawberry gelatin base enriched with plant-based cream cheese, mixed berries, chopped walnuts, and non-dairy whipped topping. Perfectly balanced for a refreshing yet indulgent treat, this no-bake salad offers a wonderful combination of textures and flavors, making it ideal for family gatherings or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale

Gelatin Base

  • 1 package (3 oz) strawberry gelatin (Jell-O brand)
  • 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained (reserve juice for dissolving gelatin)
  • Water, as needed to make 2 cups of liquid with pineapple juice

Cream Cheese Layer

  • 8 oz plant-based cream cheese, room temperature

Add-ins

  • 1 1/2 cups mixed berries, defrosted, drained and patted dry
  • 8 oz non-dairy whipped topping, thawed (Reddi-wip dairy-free recommended)
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts, roughly 1/4-inch pieces

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Gelatin Base: Drain the canned pineapple through a fine-mesh strainer, reserving the juice. Add water to the pineapple juice until you have a total of 2 cups of liquid. Heat this mixture in a saucepan over medium heat until hot but not boiling, then stir in the strawberry gelatin constantly for about 2 minutes until completely dissolved to ensure a smooth gelatin base.
  2. Partially Set the Gelatin: Pour the warm gelatin mixture into a large bowl and refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes until it reaches a syrupy, slightly-set consistency. It should jiggle when gently shaken but hold its shape. This step is crucial to prevent mix-ins from sinking or the gelatin becoming too firm.
  3. Prepare Mix-In Ingredients: While the gelatin sets, place the room-temperature plant-based cream cheese in a mixing bowl. Pat the defrosted mixed berries dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Measure out the chopped walnuts and thawed non-dairy whipped topping.
  4. Create the Cream Cheese Mixture: Beat the cream cheese with a hand mixer or whisk for 1-2 minutes until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the partially set gelatin to the cream cheese while beating gently until fully combined into a mousse-like, uniform mixture that will create the salad’s rich, creamy texture.
  5. Combine and Fold Add-ins: Gently fold in the dried mixed berries, chopped walnuts, and non-dairy whipped topping into the cream cheese and gelatin mixture, ensuring even distribution without deflating the whipped topping.
  6. Chill until Firm: Transfer the completed mixture into a serving dish or mold. Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours or until fully set and firm enough to slice or scoop.
  7. Serve: Once set, serve chilled as a refreshing, creamy dessert or side dish perfect for festive occasions or everyday enjoyment.

Notes

  • Patting the berries dry is essential to prevent the salad from becoming watery over time.
  • Avoid overheating the gelatin mixture as boiling can affect texture and taste.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese for easier blending and smoother texture.
  • You can substitute mixed berries with any preferred fruit combinations.
  • For best results, chill the salad overnight to let flavors meld and texture set.
  • This recipe is dairy-free and uses plant-based and non-dairy ingredients suitable for vegans.

Keywords: Walnut Jello Salad, Berry Jello Salad, Vegan Jello Salad, Plant-based dessert, No-bake salad, Cream cheese salad, Strawberry gelatin dessert

Find it online: https://bakedbylisa.com/rich-walnut-berry-jello-salad-recipe/