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Strawberry Pretzel Salad

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Strawberry pretzel salad is a layered dessert with a salty-sweet pretzel crust, creamy cheesecake-style filling, and a fruity strawberry Jell-O topping with fresh strawberries. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or summer gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups crushed pretzels
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar (divided)
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 8 oz whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
  • 1 package (6 oz) strawberry gelatin (Jell-O)
  • 2 cups boiling water
  • 1 cup cold water
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, combine crushed pretzels, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove and let it cool completely.
  4. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and remaining 1/2 cup sugar until smooth.
  5. Fold in whipped topping until well combined.
  6. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust, sealing all edges to prevent Jell-O from leaking through. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  7. In another bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in 2 cups boiling water. Stir in 1 cup cold water and let cool to room temperature.
  8. Add sliced strawberries to the cooled gelatin mixture.
  9. Carefully pour the strawberry mixture over the cream cheese layer. Spread evenly.
  10. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the gelatin is fully set.
  11. Slice and serve chilled.

Notes

Ensure cream cheese layer is sealed to the edges to prevent soggy crust.Let the gelatin cool before pouring to avoid mixing layers.Use fresh strawberries for best texture, or thawed frozen berries if needed.Substitute whipped topping with stabilized whipped cream if preferred.Use gluten-free pretzels for a gluten-free version.

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