Strawberry Pretzel Salad

$- 2 cups crushed pretzels - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted - 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for the crust) - 8 oz cream cheese, softened - 1 cup powdered sugar - 1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip) - 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced - 1 cup strawberry gelatin powder - 2 cups boiling water - 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced for garnish For this Strawberry Pretzel Salad, you need just the right ingredients. The salty pretzels make a great crust. The butter adds richness, while sugar balances the salt. Cream cheese gives a smooth layer, and powered sugar adds sweetness. The whipped topping makes it light and fluffy. Fresh strawberries bring a burst of flavor. Strawberry gelatin adds color and holds it all together. Boiling water helps dissolve the gelatin and mix everything well. You will need more fresh strawberries for garnish. Each layer builds flavor and texture, making this dessert special. You can find the full recipe at the end. Gather these items, and you are ready to create something delicious! - Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for a perfect crust. - Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of crushed pretzels, 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Stir well until the mix is uniform. - Bake the Crust: Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Press the pretzel mixture into the bottom firmly. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove it from the oven and let it cool completely. - Beat the Cream Cheese: In a new bowl, mix 8 oz of softened cream cheese with 1 cup of powdered sugar. Beat them together until smooth. - Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold in 1 cup of whipped topping. This makes the layer light and fluffy. - Spread Over the Crust: Once the pretzel crust is cool, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on top. - Dissolve Gelatin: In a large bowl, mix 1 cup of strawberry gelatin powder with 2 cups of boiling water. Stir until it fully dissolves. - Incorporate Fresh Strawberries: Allow the mixture to cool slightly, then fold in 2 cups of hulled and sliced fresh strawberries. - Assemble Layers: Pour the strawberry mix over the cream cheese layer. Spread it evenly for a nice look. - Refrigerate Salad: Place the dish in the fridge. Let it chill for at least 4 hours. This time allows the salad to set properly. - Cut and Serve: After chilling, cut the salad into squares. Serve it garnished with extra slices of fresh strawberries on top for a beautiful finish. For the full recipe, check the details above! - Ensure Ingredients are Room Temperature: Start with room temperature cream cheese. This helps mix it smoothly with sugar. If it’s cold, your mix may be lumpy. - Chill to Set Properly: After making your salad, chill it for at least 4 hours. This cooling time is key for the layers to set well. If you skip this step, it may not hold together. - Test for Firmness: Use a toothpick to check if your salad is set. Insert it gently into the top layer. If it comes out clean, your salad is ready! - Dessert Cups: For a fun twist, serve your salad in individual dessert cups. This makes it easy to grab and adds a nice touch for guests. - Garnishing Options: Brighten your dish with fresh mint leaves or extra strawberry slices. These small details make a big difference in look and taste. - Color Contrast: Use whipped topping cleverly for contrast. A dollop on top not only adds creaminess but also makes the dish more appealing. For the full recipe, check out the Strawberry Pretzel Delight! {{image_2}} You can change the flavors of Strawberry Pretzel Salad easily. - Other Fruits: You can use blueberries or raspberries instead of strawberries. This will give your salad a new twist. Fresh fruits add color and taste. - Flavor Change: Try different flavored gelatin. Orange or cherry gelatin can brighten the dish. Each flavor adds its unique touch. - Nut Add-ins: Adding almonds or pecans gives a nice crunch. Sprinkle them on top or mix them into the cream cheese layer for texture. If you want a healthier version of this tasty dish, here are some options. - Reduced Sugar: You can use sugar substitutes. This can cut down on calories while keeping it sweet. Look for options like stevia or erythritol. - Alternative Toppings: Instead of whipped topping, consider using Greek yogurt. It adds creaminess and protein, making it healthier. - Gluten-Free Version: If you need a gluten-free dish, replace pretzels with gluten-free snacks. There are many tasty options available now, like gluten-free pretzels or rice crisps. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. To keep your Strawberry Pretzel Salad fresh, store it in the fridge. Use an airtight container to seal in the flavor. If you don't have one, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. This helps prevent it from absorbing other odors in your fridge. It can last up to five days when stored properly. You can freeze Strawberry Pretzel Salad, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you choose to freeze it, it can last for about two months. For best results, freeze the salad without the whipped topping. This helps keep the texture nice. When it’s time to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Avoid using a microwave, as it can ruin the layers. After thawing, enjoy it within a couple of days for the best taste. What can I substitute for Cool Whip in this recipe? You can use whipped cream for a fresh taste. Make it by whipping heavy cream with sugar. This gives a nice, light texture. How long does Strawberry Pretzel Salad last in the fridge? It stays good for about 3 to 5 days. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Can I make this dessert a day in advance? Yes, making it a day ahead works well. Just let it chill overnight for the best flavor. How do I know when the salad is fully set? Check if the top is firm to the touch. You can also insert a toothpick. It should come out clean. Is it possible to use frozen strawberries instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just thaw them first and drain extra juice. This keeps the salad from getting too watery. For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe section for more details and tips! In this blog post, I shared a tasty recipe for Strawberry Pretzel Salad. We covered essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for success. I also suggested some fun variations and storage tips. As you try this recipe, enjoy the balance of salty, sweet, and creamy flavors. Remember, cooking is a way to express yourself. Make it your own and share the joy with others!$

Indulge in a delectable Strawberry Pretzel Delight that's sure to impress your friends and family! This easy recipe combines a crunchy pretzel crust with a creamy, dreamy filling and fresh strawberries for the perfect sweet-and-salty dessert. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a stunning dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Click through now to explore this delightful recipe and wow your guests!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

2 cups crushed pretzels

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/4 cup granulated sugar (for the crust)

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1 cup powdered sugar

1 cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

1 cup strawberry gelatin powder

2 cups boiling water

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced for garnish

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until well mixed.

Bake the Crust: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking dish to form an even crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool completely.

Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped topping until it's well combined.

Spread the Cream Cheese Mixture: Once the pretzel crust has cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust.

Prepare the Strawberry Layer: In a large bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin powder in 2 cups of boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved. Let it cool slightly, then fold in the sliced strawberries.

Combine Layers: Pour the strawberry mixture over the cream cheese layer in the baking dish. Spread it evenly, then refrigerate the salad for at least 4 hours, or until set.

Serve: Once set, cut into squares and serve garnished with additional slices of fresh strawberries on top.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes | Servings: 12

- Presentation Tips: Serve in individual dessert cups for an elegant touch, garnished with a sprig of mint for added color.