Easy Strawberry Pretzel Salad Recipe

Introduction

Strawberry Pretzel Salad is a delightful combination of a crunchy pretzel crust, a creamy tangy filling, and a sweet strawberry topping. This no-bake dessert is perfect for holidays and gatherings, offering a delicious balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

• Pretzel Crust:
• 12 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (1 ½ sticks)
• ¼ cup packed dark brown sugar
• 2 cups crushed pretzel sticks (gluten free if desired)
• Cream Cheese Filling:
• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed
• 1 pint strawberries, sliced
• Strawberry Jello Topping:
• 1 (6 oz) package strawberry Jello mix
• 1 ½ cups boiling water
• Whipped cream (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with cooking spray, then create a parchment paper sling (optional) for easy removal and place it in the pan.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and crushed pretzels. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. Step 3: Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and allow it to cool completely before adding the next layer.
4. Step 4: For the cream cheese filling, beat together powdered sugar, cream cheese, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until smooth. Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip.
5. Step 5: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust. Top with sliced strawberries. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 to 60 minutes.
6. Step 6: Dissolve the strawberry Jello mix in boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved. Let it cool at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes while the cream cheese layer chills.
7. Step 7: Pour the cooled Jello over the chilled strawberry layer. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for several hours until the Jello is set.
8. Step 8: Use the parchment sling to lift the salad from the pan and cut into pieces. Serve topped with whipped cream if desired.

Tips & Variations

• For best results, crush pretzels finely using a food processor to create a uniform crust texture.
• You can substitute fresh strawberries with frozen ones—just thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture.
• Adding a splash of lemon juice to the cream cheese filling can enhance the tangy flavor.
• Use a gluten-free pretzel option to make this dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.

Storage

Store the salad covered in the refrigerator for up to one week. Keep it chilled to maintain the texture of the crust and filling. Reheating is not recommended as the Jello topping will soften.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare Strawberry Pretzel Salad in advance?

Yes, this dessert actually benefits from chilling time. Prepare all layers and refrigerate for several hours or overnight to let the Jello set and flavors meld.

Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?

Absolutely. Blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of berries can be used in place of strawberries for a different variation.

Easy Strawberry Pretzel Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 132 reviews

• Author: Julian
• Total Time: 2 hours (including chilling time)
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Easy Strawberry Pretzel Salad features a crunchy pretzel crust, a smooth and tangy cream cheese filling, and a sweet strawberry jello topping with fresh strawberries. It’s a perfect dessert or side dish for holidays and special occasions, combining salty and sweet flavors with creamy and crunchy textures.

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Ingredients

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Pretzel Crust

• 12 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (1 1/2 sticks)
• ¼ cup packed dark brown sugar
• 2 cups crushed pretzel sticks (crushed in food processor for best results, gluten free if desired)

Cream Cheese Filling

• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed in the fridge
• 1 pint strawberries, sliced

Strawberry Jello Topping

• 1 (6 oz) package strawberry jello mix
• 1 ½ cups boiling water
• Whipped cream, optional for topping

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Instructions

1. Pretzel Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with cooking spray, then create a parchment paper sling and place it into the greased pan to help with easy removal later. In a medium bowl, stir together the melted butter, dark brown sugar, and crushed pretzels until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from oven and allow to cool completely before proceeding.
2. Cream Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, use a hand mixer to beat together the sifted powdered sugar, softened cream cheese, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. Gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip until evenly mixed. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust. Arrange the sliced strawberries evenly on top. Place the pan in the refrigerator and chill for 30 to 60 minutes while preparing the top layer.
3. Strawberry Jello Topping: In a large bowl, pour the strawberry jello mix and add 1 ½ cups boiling water. Stir constantly until the jello powder is completely dissolved. Let the jello cool at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes, coordinating the timing with the chilling of the cream cheese layer. Once cooled, carefully pour the jello over the chilled strawberry and cream cheese layer. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate until the jello is fully set, which takes at least a few hours.
4. Serving: Use the parchment paper sling to lift the dessert from the pan for easier cutting and serving. Cut into 12 pieces. Top with whipped cream if desired and serve chilled.

Notes

• See the recipe video for visuals on the texture of the crushed pretzels to ensure the crust has the right consistency.
• The parchment paper sling is optional but highly recommended to remove the salad easily from the pan and cut even pieces.
• The stated prep time of 2 hours includes chilling time; active prep and cook time is about 30 minutes.
• Use gluten free pretzels if you want to keep the recipe gluten free.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Strawberry Pretzel Salad, Holiday Dessert, Classic Dessert, Gluten Free dessert, Strawberry jello dessert, Cream cheese dessert, Christmas side dish, Thanksgiving dessert