Lemon Pretzel Dessert

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lemon Pretzel Dessert is a refreshing and tangy layered treat that’s perfect for summer gatherings. It features a crunchy-salty pretzel crust, a sweet and creamy lemon cheesecake center, and a bright lemon gelatin topping. The combination of flavors and textures makes it an irresistible balance of sweet, salty, and citrusy goodness.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

pretzelsunsalted buttergranulated sugarsugarcream cheeselemon gelatin (like lemon Jell-O)boiling watercold waterwhipped topping (such as Cool Whip)lemon zest (optional for garnish)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Crush the pretzels into small pieces and combine with melted butter and granulated sugar.

Press the pretzel mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust.

Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool completely.

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy.

Fold in the whipped topping until fully combined.

Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled pretzel crust, making sure to seal the edges to prevent the gelatin layer from seeping through.

Dissolve the lemon gelatin in boiling water, then stir in cold water. Let cool slightly until it reaches room temperature.

Pour the cooled gelatin over the cream cheese layer and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.

Garnish with lemon zest if desired before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesBaking time: 10 minutesChilling time: 4 hoursTotal time: 4 hours 30 minutes

Variations

Use lime or orange gelatin for a different citrus flavor.

Add crushed pineapple or mandarin oranges to the gelatin for extra fruitiness.

Substitute homemade whipped cream for the whipped topping for a richer taste.

Make individual servings in clear cups for a party-friendly presentation.

storage/reheating

Store Lemon Pretzel Dessert covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Do not freeze, as the gelatin and cream cheese layers may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, it’s ideal for making a day in advance to allow time for the layers to set.

What type of pretzels should I use?

Use small salted pretzels, either twists or sticks, for best results.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Yes, but reducing sugar may affect the texture and sweetness balance.

Is this dessert gluten-free?

No, but you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pretzels.

Can I use homemade lemon curd instead of gelatin?

Yes, though it will change the texture and require careful layering to avoid mixing.

How do I prevent the gelatin from soaking into the cream cheese layer?

Make sure the cream cheese layer is spread all the way to the edges and fully covers the crust.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, but full-fat will give a richer and creamier texture.

What if I don’t have Cool Whip?

You can use stabilized whipped cream as a substitute.

Conclusion

Lemon Pretzel Dessert is a delightful fusion of tangy lemon, creamy filling, and salty crunch that’s perfect for warm weather and casual get-togethers. It’s easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and offers a burst of citrus flavor in every bite. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s a go-to dessert for spring and summer occasions.

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