Step by Step how to make strawberry pretzel dessert

To make a delicious Strawberry Pretzel Dessert, often referred to as Strawberry Pretzel Salad, follow these detailed steps based on multiple recipes and tips from various sources.

Ingredients

For the crust:

2 ½ cups crushed pretzels (about 2 cups whole pretzels)
¾ cup butter, melted
3 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the cream cheese layer:

1 cup granulated sugar
8 oz cream cheese, softened
8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip)

For the strawberry layer:

1 (6 oz) box strawberry-flavored gelatin (Jell-O)
2 cups boiling water
1 ½ to 2 cups sliced strawberries (fresh or frozen)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pretzel Crust

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix crust ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until the pretzels are well coated.
Spread in a pan: Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake for 8-10 minutes until slightly golden. Set aside to cool completely¹(https://www.ameliaisnotachef.com/recipes/strawberrypretzeldessert).

2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

Combine cream cheese and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy.
Fold in whipped topping: Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined. Spread this mixture over the cooled pretzel crust, making sure to spread it all the way to the edges to prevent the jello from seeping through²(https://natashaskitchen.com/strawberry-pretzel-salad/).

3. Prepare the Strawberry Layer

Dissolve gelatin: In a separate bowl, combine the strawberry-flavored gelatin and boiling water. Stir for about 2 minutes until fully dissolved.
Add strawberries: Allow the gelatin to cool slightly before adding the sliced strawberries. Stir to incorporate, then let it sit until it cools down and thickens slightly³(https://blog.wilton.com/strawberry-pretzel-dessert-recipe/).

4. Assemble the Dessert

Layer the jello: Once the cream cheese layer has set (about 30 minutes in the fridge), pour the strawberry mixture over the cream cheese layer. Spread evenly⁴(https://www.olgasflavorfactory.com/summer-favorites/strawberry-pretzel-salad/).

5. Chill

Refrigerate: Place the assembled dessert back into the refrigerator for at least 2-4 hours, or until the strawberry layer has fully set⁵(https://natashaskitchen.com/strawberry-pretzel-salad/).

6. Serve

Cut and enjoy: Use a sharp knife to cut the dessert into squares and serve chilled.

Additional Tips

Cool Whip Alternatives: If you prefer to make a more natural version, you can substitute the Cool Whip with heavy cream. This method requires beating the cream until stiff peaks form and folding it into the cream cheese mixture⁴(https://www.olgasflavorfactory.com/summer-favorites/strawberry-pretzel-salad/).
Crust Texture: For a crunchier crust, give it some extra baking time, but watch carefully not to overbake²(https://natashaskitchen.com/strawberry-pretzel-salad/).
Make Ahead: This dessert is perfect for making ahead of time, which makes it ideal for potlucks or family gatherings⁵(https://blog.wilton.com/strawberry-pretzel-dessert-recipe/).

Conclusion

This Strawberry Pretzel Dessert combines the crunch of pretzels, the sweetness of strawberries, and the creaminess of cream cheese into a delightful treat that will be a hit at any gathering. Each layer provides a unique texture and flavor that complements the other, making it a well-loved classic dessert. Enjoy your culinary creation!