Strawberry Pretzel Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Strawberry Pretzel Salad is a beloved classic dessert with a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. It features a crunchy pretzel crust, a creamy cheesecake-like filling, and a vibrant strawberry gelatin topping with fresh strawberries. Ideal for potlucks, holidays, or summer gatherings, this no-bake layered treat is both refreshing and indulgent.

ingredients

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

pretzels
unsalted butter
granulated sugar
cream cheese
whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
strawberry-flavored gelatin
fresh strawberries
boiling water
cold water

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Crush the pretzels into small pieces and mix with melted butter and a bit of sugar. Press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust.

Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then allow it to cool completely.

In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Fold in the whipped topping until well combined.

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

Refrigerate for about 30 minutes to set the cream layer.

Dissolve the strawberry gelatin in boiling water, then stir in cold water and sliced fresh strawberries.

Carefully pour the gelatin mixture over the chilled cream cheese layer.

Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the gelatin is fully set.

Slice and serve chilled.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Total time: 5 hours

Variations

Use raspberry gelatin and fresh raspberries for a twist.
Add a layer of sliced bananas under the cream cheese layer.
Top with a dollop of whipped cream before serving.
Use low-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping for a lighter version.

storage/reheating

Store Strawberry Pretzel Salad in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.
Do not freeze, as the gelatin and cream layers may separate upon thawing.
Best enjoyed cold straight from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect to make the night before serving.

What type of pretzels should I use?
Use salted mini twists or sticks for the best crunchy base.

Why is my crust soggy?
Ensure the cream cheese layer seals the crust completely to prevent gelatin leakage.

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are best, but thawed frozen ones can be used if well-drained.

Is it a salad or a dessert?
Despite its name, this is a dessert! The “salad” refers to its layered, chilled nature.

Can I substitute homemade whipped cream?
Yes, just ensure it’s stabilized to hold up under the gelatin.

Conclusion

Strawberry Pretzel Salad is a nostalgic and crowd-pleasing dessert that combines sweet, salty, creamy, and fruity elements in every bite. It’s easy to prepare, visually appealing, and guaranteed to disappear quickly at any gathering. Give it a try, and enjoy a slice of this delightful treat.

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