🍓 Strawberry Pretzel Salad Recipe: The Perfect Sweet & Salty Dessert
Strawberry Pretzel Salad is a classic American dessert that strikes the perfect balance between sweet, salty, crunchy, and creamy. With a buttery pretzel crust, a smooth cream cheese layer, and a vibrant strawberry Jell-O topping, this no-bake treat is a crowd favorite at potlucks, holidays, and family gatherings.
🥄 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here are the ingredients for each layer of this delicious dessert:
🧂 Pretzel Crust Layer
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2 cups crushed pretzels
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3/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
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3 tablespoons granulated sugar
🧀 Cream Cheese Layer
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8 oz cream cheese (softened)
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1 cup granulated sugar
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8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
🍓 Strawberry Jell-O Layer
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2 cups boiling water
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6 oz package strawberry Jell-O
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16 oz frozen sliced strawberries (or fresh)
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Optional: 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries for topping
👩🍳 How to Make Strawberry Pretzel Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Pretzel Crust
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Crush pretzels (not too fine) and mix with melted butter and sugar.
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Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Bake for 10 minutes. Let it cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer
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Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
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Fold in the whipped topping gently.
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Spread this layer evenly over the cooled crust.
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Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the next step.
Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Layer
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Dissolve strawberry Jell-O in boiling water.
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Stir in frozen strawberries until Jell-O starts to thicken slightly.
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Carefully pour the strawberry mixture over the cream cheese layer.
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Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
✅ Tips for Success
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Seal the layers: Spread the cream cheese layer to the edges to prevent Jell-O from seeping into the crust.
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Chill each layer: Always chill before adding the next layer to prevent mixing.
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Use whipped topping: It helps stabilize the cream layer and adds fluffiness.
🥣 Variations
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Raspberry Pretzel Salad: Substitute raspberry Jell-O and frozen raspberries.
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Mini Desserts: Layer in individual cups for easy serving.
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Sugar-Free Version: Use sugar-free Jell-O and light whipped topping.
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Fresh Fruit Topping: Garnish with fresh strawberries and mint leaves.
📦 Storage Instructions
Store Strawberry Pretzel Salad in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Not freezer-friendly, as the texture of the Jell-O may change.
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📝 Final Thoughts
Strawberry Pretzel Salad is more than just a dessert—it’s a nostalgic favorite that never fails to impress. Whether you’re looking for a holiday dessert or a refreshing summer treat, this recipe is quick, easy, and deliciously addictive. Give it a try, and it may become your new go-to dessert!