why make this recipe
This dessert is simple and quick. It has a crunchy pretzel crust, a soft cream cheese middle, and fresh strawberry topping. Many people like the mix of sweet and salty. If you like easy desserts, try this. For another easy salad-style dessert idea, see this cheesecake salad with berries.
introduction
Easy Strawberry Pretzel Salad is a no-bake, make-ahead dessert. It uses a pretzel crust, a creamy layer, and fresh strawberries set in strawberry gelatin. You can make it for family dinners, potlucks, or holidays. If you want other simple salad recipes, check this easy deviled cauliflower egg salad.
how to make Easy Strawberry Pretzel Salad
Follow the steps below. Work in three parts: crust, cream layer, and strawberry gelatin topping. Chill well so the layers set. Gather the ingredients and a 9×13 inch dish before you start.
Ingredients :
- 2 cups crushed pretzels
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping
- 1 (6 oz) package strawberry gelatin
- 2 cups boiling water
- 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix crushed pretzels, melted butter, and sugar. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 10 minutes. Allow to cool.
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Fold in whipped topping and spread over cooled pretzel crust.
- In another bowl, dissolve strawberry gelatin in boiling water. Add sliced strawberries and allow to cool slightly. Pour over the cream cheese layer.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set. Serve chilled.
how to serve Easy Strawberry Pretzel Salad
Cut into squares and serve cold. Use a sharp knife for clean slices. Serve on dessert plates with a fork. You can add a small dollop of extra whipped topping if you like.
how to store Easy Strawberry Pretzel Salad
Cover the dish with plastic wrap or use an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Do not freeze — the texture will change.
tips to make Easy Strawberry Pretzel Salad
- Press the crust firmly so it holds together.
- Let the crust cool fully before adding the cream layer.
- Chill the gelatin slightly before pouring so it will not melt the cream layer.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for best flavor.
- For ideas on other quick salads and sides, try this easy cashew tuna salad.
variation (if any)
- Use raspberry or cherry gelatin instead of strawberry.
- Add chopped nuts to the crust for extra crunch.
- Swap fresh strawberries for thawed frozen berries if fresh are not available.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A: Yes. Thaw and drain them well before adding to the gelatin.
Q: Can I make this a day ahead?
A: Yes. It tastes best if you chill it at least 4 hours or overnight.
Q: What if the crust is too soft?
A: Bake a little longer or press the crust more firmly before baking.
Q: Can I use sugar-free gelatin?
A: Yes, but the taste will be less sweet. Adjust powdered sugar if needed.
Q: How do I get clean slices?
A: Chill well and use a sharp knife dipped in hot water, wiping the blade between cuts.
Conclusion
This Easy Strawberry Pretzel Salad is a simple, fresh dessert that many people enjoy. For the original easy recipe and notes, you can read the full version at Easy Strawberry Pretzel Salad Recipe – Home Cooking Memories.
Print
Easy Strawberry Pretzel Salad
- Total Time: 240 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful no-bake dessert featuring a crunchy pretzel crust, creamy layer, and fresh strawberry topping.
Ingredients
- 2 cups crushed pretzels
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping
- 1 (6 oz) package strawberry gelatin
- 2 cups boiling water
- 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix crushed pretzels, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl.
- Press mixture into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 10 minutes.
- Allow to cool.
- Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth in a separate bowl.
- Fold in whipped topping and spread over cooled pretzel crust.
- Dissolve strawberry gelatin in boiling water in another bowl.
- Add sliced strawberries and allow to cool slightly.
- Pour over the cream cheese layer.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set. Serve chilled.
Notes
Press the crust firmly for better structure and let it cool fully before adding the cream layer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: strawberry dessert, no-bake, easy dessert, salad dessert, pretzel salad