Description
A delightful layered dessert combining a crunchy salty pretzel crust with a creamy sweet cream cheese layer and a fresh strawberry Jell-O topping. This Strawberry Pretzel Salad is perfect for holidays or any occasion where you want a sweet and salty treat that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust:
- 2 cups crushed pretzels
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 (6 oz) box strawberry Jell-O
- 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even crust.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the pretzel crust in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, then remove and allow it to cool completely to ensure the crust sets firmly.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Fold in the thawed whipped topping until fully combined to create a fluffy layer.
- Assemble Cream Cheese Layer: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust, making sure to seal the edges well to prevent the Jell-O from leaking through. Place in the refrigerator and chill for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Strawberry Jell-O: In a separate bowl, dissolve the strawberry Jell-O powder in 2 cups of boiling water. Stir thoroughly until completely dissolved, then let it cool to room temperature without allowing it to set.
- Add Strawberries to Jell-O: Stir the sliced fresh strawberries into the cooled but liquid Jell-O mixture.
- Assemble the Dessert: Carefully pour the strawberry Jell-O mixture over the chilled cream cheese layer. Return the dish to the refrigerator and chill until the Jell-O layer is fully set, approximately 4 hours or overnight.
- Serve: Once set, slice into 12 portions and serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese layer seals the edges well to keep the Jell-O from seeping into the pretzel crust, which could make it soggy.
- You can substitute fresh strawberries with frozen strawberries; just thaw and drain them well before adding to the Jell-O mixture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
