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Best Strawberry Pretzel Salad

Best Strawberry Pretzel Salad
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Strawberry Pretzel Salad is a beloved retro dessert known for its perfect balance of salty, sweet, and creamy layers. Despite the name, it’s a dessert—not a leafy salad! With a buttery pretzel crust, tangy cream cheese center, and vibrant strawberry gelatin topping, this chilled treat is perfect for holidays, BBQs, and nostalgic potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale

Pretzel Crust:

  • 2 cups crushed salted pretzels

  • ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar

🍦 Cream Cheese Layer:

  • 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened

  • ¾ cup granulated sugar

  • 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)

🍓 Strawberry Gelatin Layer:

  • 1 package (6 oz) strawberry gelatin (e.g., Jell-O)

  • 2 cups boiling water

  • 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries (or frozen, thawed and drained)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Pretzel Crust

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

  2. Mix crushed pretzels, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl.

  3. Press firmly into a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  4. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer

  1. Beat cream cheese and sugar together until smooth.

  2. Fold in whipped topping gently until combined.

  3. Spread evenly over the cooled crust, sealing edges completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Gelatin Layer

  1. Dissolve the gelatin in boiling water and let it cool slightly (not set).

  2. Stir in the sliced strawberries.

  3. Pour gently over the cream cheese layer.

  4. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set.

Step 4: Serve

  • Slice into squares and serve chilled.

  • Garnish with additional whipped topping or fresh strawberries if desired.

Notes

  • To avoid soggy crust, ensure the cream cheese layer seals the pretzel base fully.

  • Use fresh berries for best texture, but thawed frozen berries work too.

  • Make a day ahead for easy prep before events.

 

  • For vegan or keto versions, check variation ideas in the full post.

Nutrition

Keywords: Strawberry pretzel salad, potluck dessert, strawberry dessert, jello salad, retro dessert, layered dessert, southern desserts, sweet and salty, gelatin dessert, strawberry cream cheese bars

Find it online: https://simpelrecipes.com/best-strawberry-pretzel-salad/