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Strawberry Pretzel Salad

Strawberry Pretzel Salad

This Strawberry Pretzel Salad features a crunchy pretzel crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and fresh strawberry gelatin topping.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 12 people
Calories: 410
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Pretzel Crust
  • 2 cups crushed pretzels
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • For the Cream Cheese Layer
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 container whipped topping 8 oz
  • For the Strawberry Layer
  • 1 package strawberry gelatin mix 6 oz
  • 2 cups boiling water
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries sliced

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and granulated sugar until evenly mixed.
  3. Press the pretzel mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish to create an even crust layer.
  4. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
  6. Add granulated sugar and vanilla extract, then continue mixing until fully combined.
  7. Fold in the whipped topping gently until light and fluffy.
  8. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust, making sure to spread it completely to the edges of the dish to help seal the layer.
  9. In another bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in boiling water and stir until completely dissolved.
  10. Allow the gelatin mixture to cool slightly to room temperature.
  11. Stir the sliced strawberries into the cooled gelatin mixture.
  12. Carefully pour the strawberry gelatin mixture over the cream cheese layer.
  13. Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4–6 hours, or until fully set and chilled.
  14. Slice into squares and serve cold for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Let the crust cool completely before adding the cream cheese layer.
  • Spread the cream cheese mixture fully to the edges to prevent gelatin from leaking through.
  • Fresh strawberries provide the best texture and flavor.
  • Allow the gelatin to cool slightly before pouring over the cream layer.
  • Refrigerate long enough for clean slices.
  • Pretzels add the perfect salty crunch to balance the sweetness.
  • Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest texture.