Strawberry Pretzel Salad – This insanely good and delicious strawberry pretzel salad features a salty pretzel crust topped with cream cheese and strawberry jell-o for the perfect old-fashioned treat.
Strawberry pretzel salad is an old-fashioned Southern no-bake dessert recipe that’s well-loved at potlucks, parties and holiday dinners. Fruity, salty, creamy and sweet, this combination of a delicious strawberry pretzel salad is the perfect option for everyone.
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This post is about how to make Strawberry Pretzel Salad.
OLD-FASHIONED STRAWBERRY PRETZEL SALAD
Get the party started with this fruity and yummy dessert that you can make in just a few simple steps! This fruity, sweet, and salty treat is a strawberry dessert with a creamy filling and buttery pretzel crust. The perfect treat for potlucks, holidays, parties and any other special occasions.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
Easy To Make. This dessert features only 3 simple layers that are so simple to whip together.
Crowd-Pleasing Taste. A salty pretzel crust, sweet cream cheese layer and fresh strawberry gelatin layer combined makes a fantastic and unforgettable flavor profile.
Perfect for Potlucks. This is a well-loved dessert for potlucks and parties.
INGREDIENTS NOTES
Here’s everything you need to make this well-loved Strawberry Pretzel Salad. See the recipe card down below for the exact measurements.
HOW TO MAKE STRAWBERRY PRETZEL SALAD
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and 3 tablespoons sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then allow to cool completely.
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth. Fold in the whipped topping until fully combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust, making sure to seal the edges to prevent the gelatin from leaking through. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the next layer.
In a large bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in 2 cups boiling water. Stir in the sliced strawberries. Let the mixture cool slightly (but not set), then pour it gently over the cream cheese layer.
Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours, or until the gelatin is fully set. Slice into squares and serve cold.
TIPS FOR SUCCESS
When making the jell-o, don’t leave it in the fridge for too long. If it sets too much, it will have chunks and won’t pour evenly.
To crush your pretzels easily, place them in a Ziploc bag and use a rolling pin, wooden spoon, or your hand to do so!
RECIPE FAQ’S
Q: Is it possible to prepare the strawberry pretzel salad in advance?
A: Yes, it’s best made at least a few hours in advance to allow the gelatin to set. You can even make it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator.
Q: How do I prevent the pretzel crust from becoming soggy?
A: Make sure the cream cheese layer completely covers the pretzel crust, sealing the edges. This prevents the gelatin from seeping through and making the crust soggy.
Q: Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?
A: Yes, fresh strawberries work perfectly in this recipe. Just slice them thinly and proceed as directed.
Q: Can I use whipped cream instead of the whipped topping ( Cool Whip)?
A: Yes, homemade whipped cream can be used, but it may not hold its shape as long as whipped topping.
Q: Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use gluten-free pretzels for the crust to make this dessert gluten-free.
Q: Can I use a different type of gelatin?
A: Yes, you can substitute with other flavors like raspberry or cherry gelatin, but it will change the flavor of the salad.
Q: Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
A: Yes, you can reduce the sugar in the cream cheese layer to taste, but keep in mind it will alter the sweetness of the final dessert.
Q: How long does Strawberry Pretzel Salad last in the fridge?
A: It will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, but the crust may start to soften over time.
Q: Can I freeze this Strawberry Pretzel Salad?
A: Freezing is not recommended as it can affect the texture of the gelatin and the cream cheese layer.
Q: What size dish should I use?
A: A standard 9×13-inch baking dish works best for this recipe.
Q: Can I make this recipe in individual servings?
A: Yes, you can layer the ingredients in small cups or jars for individual servings.
Q: Can I add other fruits to this dessert?
A: Yes, you can add fruits like raspberries or blueberries, but be mindful of how they pair with the strawberry gelatin.
Q: Why is my gelatin layer separating from the cream cheese layer?
A: This usually happens if the gelatin is too warm when poured. Let it cool slightly before adding it to prevent separation.
Q: Can I use low-fat or fat-free cream cheese?
A: Yes, you can use low-fat or fat-free cream cheese, but the texture may be slightly less creamy.
Q: What type of pretzels should I use?
A: Use salted pretzels for a nice contrast with the sweet layers. Pretzel sticks, twists, or mini pretzels all work well.
Q: How do I crush the pretzels?
A: Place the pretzels in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin or pulse them in a food processor until coarse.
Q: Can I make this dessert dairy-free?
A: Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese and a non-dairy whipped topping substitute.
Q: Can I use flavored pretzels?
A: It’s best to stick with plain salted pretzels. Flavored pretzels might alter the taste in unexpected ways.
Q: Can I use less butter in the crust?
A: You can reduce the butter slightly, but the crust may not hold together as well. It’s important for binding the pretzels.
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Strawberry Pretzel Salad
Strawberry Pretzel Salad - This insanely good and delicious strawberry pretzel salad features a salty pretzel crust topped with cream cheese and strawberry jell-o for the perfect old-fashioned treat.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups pretzels, crushed
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 8 oz package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 12 oz container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- 2 3 oz packages strawberry jell-o gelatin
- 2 cups boiling water
- 3 cups frozen strawberries, sliced (or use fresh if prefered)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and 3 tablespoons sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then allow to cool completely.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth. Fold in the whipped topping until fully combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust, making sure to seal the edges to prevent the gelatin from leaking through. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the next layer.
- In a large bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in 2 cups boiling water. Stir in the sliced strawberries. Let the mixture cool slightly (but not set), then pour it gently over the cream cheese layer.
- Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours, or until the gelatin is fully set. Slice into squares and serve cold.
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