Strawberry Pretzel Dessert is a classic sweet-and-salty treat that combines the buttery crunch of a pretzel crust, the creaminess of a whipped cream and cream cheese filling, and the fruity burst of a strawberry topping. This refreshing dessert is a crowd-pleaser at summer gatherings, potlucks, and holiday celebrations. The layers not only create a beautiful presentation but also offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Simple to prepare, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Pretzel Crust:
- 2 cups crushed pretzels
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 8 ounces whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 large (6 ounces) package strawberry-flavored gelatin (Jell-O)
- 16 ounces frozen strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup cold water
Instructions
- Prepare the Pretzel Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix crushed pretzels, melted butter, and sugar until well combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even crust.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool completely.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
- Fold in the whipped topping gently until fully combined.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled pretzel crust, ensuring it reaches the edges to prevent the strawberry topping from seeping through.
- Prepare the Strawberry Topping:
- In a large bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in the boiling water. Stir until fully dissolved.
- Add the frozen strawberries and cold water, stirring until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
- Assemble the Dessert:
- Pour the cooled strawberry topping over the cream cheese layer.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until the gelatin is fully set.
- Serve:
- Slice into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and creamy goodness!
This dessert can be made a day in advance, making it ideal for stress-free entertaining.
