Strawberry Pretzel Salad is a delightful dessert that combines sweet and salty flavors. This dish features a crunchy pretzel crust, a creamy layer of cheese, and a topping of vibrant strawberry gelatin with berries. Perfect for picnics, parties, or family gatherings, this dessert is sure to please everyone!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Strawberry Pretzel Salad is a great way to impress your friends and family with a refreshing dessert. It is easy to prepare and uses common ingredients you might already have at home. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy strawberries, especially in the warmer months. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a treat after dinner, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser.
How to Make Strawberry Pretzel Salad
Follow these simple steps to create your own Strawberry Pretzel Salad:
Ingredients:
- Strawberry Jello
- Pretzels
- Frozen strawberries
- Cool Whip
- Cream cheese
- Brown sugar
- Butter
- Powdered sugar
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Crush the pretzels and mix them with melted butter and brown sugar. Press this mixture into a baking dish and bake for 10 minutes. Allow it to cool completely.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Gently fold in the Cool Whip. Spread this creamy mixture over the cooled pretzel crust.
- Prepare the Strawberry Jello according to the package directions and let it cool slightly. Mix in the frozen strawberries and pour this mixture over the cream cheese layer.
- Refrigerate the dish for at least 4 hours before serving, allowing it to set properly.
How to Serve Strawberry Pretzel Salad
Serve Strawberry Pretzel Salad chilled. Cut it into squares or scoop it with a spatula. It’s great on its own or with a dollop of extra Cool Whip on top for added creaminess.
How to Store Strawberry Pretzel Salad
Store any leftover Strawberry Pretzel Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it cool to maintain the texture of the cream cheese layer and the Jello.
Tips to Make Strawberry Pretzel Salad
- Be sure to let the crust cool completely before adding the cream cheese layer. This will prevent the layers from mixing.
- For a firmer Jello topping, let the Jello cool longer before pouring it over the cream cheese layer.
- Use fresh strawberries instead of frozen if desired, but make sure to slice them thinly for even distribution.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by using different flavors of Jello, such as raspberry or blue raspberry. You can also add sliced fresh fruit on top for more color and flavor!
FAQs
1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese to make this dish a bit lighter. It will still taste delicious!
2. How long can I keep Strawberry Pretzel Salad in the fridge?
It typically lasts about 3 days in the refrigerator, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
3. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! Strawberry Pretzel Salad is perfect for making a day in advance. Just be sure to keep it chilled until you’re ready to serve.
