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Classic Strawberry Pretzel Salad: A Sweet and Salty Layered Dessert

Close-up of a layered slice of pretzel salad featuring a crust, cream cheese layer, and strawberry topping.
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Create the perfect potluck crowd pleaser with this classic, no-bake Strawberry Pretzel Salad. It features a crunchy pretzel crust, a creamy cheesecake layer, and a bright strawberry Jell-O topping for a satisfying sweet and salty dessert.

Ingredients

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  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup crushed pretzels
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 8 ounces frozen whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
  • 1 (3 ounce) package strawberry Jell-O
  • 2 cups boiling water
  • 1 (10 ounce) package frozen sliced strawberries, thawed and drained

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, melted butter, and crushed pretzels. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  3. Bake the crust for 10 to 12 minutes until lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
  4. Prepare the cream cheese layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar together until smooth. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until just combined.
  5. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust. Chill the dish in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes while you prepare the topping.
  6. Prepare the strawberry layer: In a separate bowl, dissolve the strawberry Jell-O completely in the boiling water. Let it cool to room temperature, about 15 to 20 minutes. Do not let it set.
  7. Gently stir the thawed, drained sliced strawberries into the cooled, liquid Jell-O mixture.
  8. Carefully pour the strawberry mixture over the chilled cream cheese layer.
  9. Return the dish to the refrigerator and chill for a minimum of 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until the Jell-O layer is completely set. Cut into squares and serve cold.

Notes

  • For the best texture, make this make ahead dessert the day before serving so the layers set firmly.
  • If you prefer a tangier flavor, substitute one package of lemon Jell-O for half of the strawberry Jell-O.
  • This recipe is easily scaled for a crowd; use a larger pan for an easy holiday side dish serving.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.unfoldrecipes.com/pretzel-salad-recipe-strawberry-layered-dessert/