Description
Classic Strawberry Pretzel Salad is a nostalgic layered dessert combining a salty, crunchy pretzel crust with a sweet and creamy cream cheese layer, topped with fresh strawberries suspended in a fruity strawberry gelatin. This delightful contrast of textures and flavors makes it a favorite for holidays, potlucks, and summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Pretzel Crust
- 2 cups crushed pretzels
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 8 oz whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
Strawberry Layer
- 6 oz strawberry gelatin (Jell-O)
- 2 cups boiling water
- 16 oz fresh strawberries, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and 3 tablespoons granulated sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes until set and fragrant, then allow to cool completely.
- Make the cream layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until well combined. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust, ensuring it presses fully to the edges to prevent the gelatin layer from leaking through.
- Prepare the strawberry topping: Dissolve the strawberry gelatin powder in 2 cups boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved. Let the gelatin mixture cool to room temperature without setting. Once cooled, stir in the sliced fresh strawberries.
- Assemble: Carefully pour the cooled strawberry gelatin and strawberry mixture over the cream cheese layer, spreading evenly.
- Chill: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 4 hours or until the gelatin is fully set and firm.
- Serve: Once chilled and set, slice the salad into pieces and serve cold for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese layer fully seals the edges to prevent the gelatin from leaking and the crust from becoming soggy.
- Allow the gelatin to cool completely before pouring over the cream layer to avoid melting or mixing layers.
- You can prepare this dessert up to one day in advance for convenience.
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
