Strawberry Pretzel Salad is a delightful dessert that combines the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and creamy textures. With a crunchy pretzel crust, a smooth cream cheese layer, and a fresh strawberry Jell-O topping, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a summer picnic or a holiday gathering, this refreshing dessert is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 6 oz strawberry Jell-O
- 2 cups boiling water
- 2 ½ cups salted pretzels, measured before crushing
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 8 oz Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Instructions
Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, dissolve the strawberry Jell-O in boiling water. Stir well and let it cool to room temperature.
Step 2:
- Place pretzels in a zip-top bag and crush them using a rolling pin.
- Melt butter in a saucepan, then stir in ¼ cup sugar and the crushed pretzels until evenly coated.
Step 3:
- Press the pretzel mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch glass dish.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool completely.
Step 4:
- Beat cream cheese and ½ cup sugar together in a bowl until smooth.
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip until fully combined.
Step 5:
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust, ensuring it reaches the edges to prevent the Jell-O from seeping through.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.
Step 6:
- Stir sliced strawberries into the cooled Jell-O mixture.
- Pour evenly over the cream cheese layer and gently spread.
Step 7:
- Refrigerate for 2-4 hours until completely set.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Variations
- Berry Mix: Use a combination of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries for added variety.
- Different Jell-O Flavors: Swap out strawberry Jell-O for raspberry or cherry to mix up the flavors.
- Nutty Crust: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the pretzel crust for extra crunch.
- Whipped Cream Substitute: Use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip for a fresher taste.
Cooking Notes
- Make sure the Jell-O is fully cooled before pouring it over the cream cheese layer to prevent melting.
- To get clean slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts.
Serving Suggestions
This Strawberry Pretzel Salad pairs well with grilled dishes, barbecue, or holiday meals. Serve it chilled as a refreshing dessert for summer picnics, potlucks, or family dinners.
Tips
- Make Ahead: Prepare up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until serving.
- Storage: Cover and store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prevent a Soggy Crust: Ensure the cream cheese layer is spread fully to seal off the crust before adding Jell-O.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
10 minutes
Chilling Time:
2-4 hours
Total Time:
2 hours 30 minutes – 4 hours 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
FAQs
-
Can I make Strawberry Pretzel Salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to serve. Just be sure to keep it covered. -
What if my pretzel crust turns soggy?
This usually happens if the cream cheese layer isn’t fully spread to the edges. Make sure to seal off the crust completely before adding Jell-O. -
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, but thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to prevent the Jell-O from becoming too watery. -
How do I prevent the Jell-O from seeping into the crust?
Ensure that the cream cheese layer is thick and fully covers the pretzel base. Let it chill before adding Jell-O.
Strawberry Pretzel Salad is a must-try dessert that delivers the perfect combination of crunchy, creamy, and fruity flavors. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just as a treat for yourself, this recipe is easy, fun, and always a hit. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a foolproof dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
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Strawberry Pretzel Salad
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes - 4 hours 30 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 6 oz strawberry Jell-O
- 2 cups boiling water
- 2 ½ cups salted pretzels, measured before crushing
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 8 oz Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Instructions
Instructions
Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, dissolve the strawberry Jell-O in boiling water. Stir well and let it cool to room temperature.
Step 2:
- Place pretzels in a zip-top bag and crush them using a rolling pin.
- Melt butter in a saucepan, then stir in ¼ cup sugar and the crushed pretzels until evenly coated.
Step 3:
- Press the pretzel mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch glass dish.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool completely.
Step 4:
- Beat cream cheese and ½ cup sugar together in a bowl until smooth.
- Gently fold in the Cool Whip until fully combined.
Step 5:
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust, ensuring it reaches the edges to prevent the Jell-O from seeping through.
- Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.
Step 6:
- Stir sliced strawberries into the cooled Jell-O mixture.
- Pour evenly over the cream cheese layer and gently spread.
Step 7:
- Refrigerate for 2-4 hours until completely set.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
Cooking Notes
- Make sure the Jell-O is fully cooled before pouring it over the cream cheese layer to prevent melting.
- To get clean slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 280
- Sodium: 250mg
- Protein: 3g