Strawberry Pretzel Salad

This Strawberry Pretzel Salad is a nostalgic favorite, combining sweet and salty flavors with creamy and fruity layers that make it irresistibly delicious. With a crunchy pretzel crust, a fluffy cream cheese layer, and a vibrant strawberry topping, each bite is a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, this dessert will stand out on any table!

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Ingredients

Pretzel Crust:

• 2 cups crushed pretzels
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 tbsp granulated sugar

Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 8 oz whipped topping, such as Cool Whip, thawed

Strawberry Topping:

• 6 oz strawberry-flavored Jell-O
• 2 cups boiling water
• 4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

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Instructions

1. Make the Pretzel Crust:

• Preheat the oven to 375°F.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish.
• Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Remove and let it cool completely.

1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:

• In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy.
• Gently fold in the whipped topping using a spatula until evenly combined.
• Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled pretzel crust, making sure to reach the edges to seal in the layer. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

1. Make the Strawberry Topping:

• In a bowl, whisk the strawberry Jell-O powder with 2 cups of boiling water until fully dissolved. Allow the mixture to cool completely to room temperature.
• Arrange the sliced strawberries evenly over the cream cheese layer. Pour the cooled Jell-O mixture over the strawberries.

1. Chill and Serve:

• Refrigerate for 4-6 hours or until firmly set. For best results, chill overnight.
• Once set, cut into squares and serve.

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Tips for the Best Strawberry Pretzel Salad

• Prevent Layer Separation: Spread the cream cheese mixture all the way to the edges of the crust to prevent the Jell-O from seeping through.
• Cool the Jell-O Completely: Ensure the Jell-O is fully cooled before pouring it over the cream cheese layer to keep layers distinct and prevent melting.
• Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries give the dessert a bright flavor and keep the texture light and refreshing.

This Strawberry Pretzel Salad is as fun to make as it is to eat—a sweet, salty, and creamy dessert that’s a crowd-pleaser every time!