Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Strawberry Pretzel Salad Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 51 reviews

Strawberry Pretzel Salad is a delightful layered dessert featuring a crunchy, salty pretzel crust, a creamy sweetened cream cheese filling, and a vibrant strawberry Jell-O topping studded with fresh strawberries. This refreshing treat balances textures and flavors perfectly, making it a favorite for potlucks and family gatherings.

  • Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time)
  • Yield: 12 servings

Ingredients

Crust

  • 2 cups (160 g) finely crushed pretzels
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup (170 g) salted butter, melted

Filling

  • 8 ounces (227 g) cream cheese, at room temperature
  • 1 cup (199 g) granulated sugar
  • 8 ounces Cool Whip (whipped topping)

Strawberry Topping

  • 2 cups (480 ml) boiling water
  • 6 ounce package Strawberry Jell-O
  • 1½ cups (360 ml) cold water
  • 4 cups (668 g) sliced fresh strawberries

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the crushed pretzels and granulated sugar. Stir in the melted salted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes, until set and fragrant. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
  2. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese with the granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the Cool Whip until well combined and fluffy. Spread this filling evenly over the cooled pretzel crust, smoothing it out with a spatula.
  3. Prepare the Strawberry Topping: In a mixing bowl, dissolve the Strawberry Jell-O powder in 2 cups of boiling water, whisking until fully dissolved. Stir in 1½ cups of cold water. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
  4. Add Strawberries and Layer: Arrange the sliced strawberries evenly over the cream cheese layer. Pour the cooled but still liquid Jell-O mixture carefully over the strawberry layer, ensuring the strawberries remain evenly distributed.
  5. Chill to Set: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 4 hours or until the Jell-O topping is fully set. For best results, chill overnight. Once set, slice into squares and serve chilled for a refreshing and satisfying dessert.

Notes

  • Ensure the pretzel crust is fully cooled before adding the cream cheese layer to prevent melting.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese for a smooth filling without lumps.
  • Fresh strawberries work best for the topping; wash and slice them evenly for consistent layering.
  • Chilling overnight improves the texture and makes slicing easier.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American