This Strawberry Pretzel Dessert Salad is a nostalgic, no-bake dessert that masterfully balances sweet and salty flavors. It features a crisp pretzel crust, a smooth and creamy whipped cheesecake layer, and a fresh strawberry topping suspended in glistening strawberry gelatin. A perfect make-ahead option for gatherings, this dessert brings a retro charm and delightful texture to every slice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This classic treat has stood the test of time—and for good reason. The contrast between the buttery, salty pretzel base and the fluffy, sweet filling is irresistible, while the fresh strawberries in gelatin add a bright, fruity note. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ, festive holiday table, or casual potluck, it never fails to impress with both flavor and presentation. Even better, it requires no oven time beyond a quick crust bake, making it easy to prepare ahead and stress-free.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Pretzel Crust:
- crushed pretzels
- unsalted butter, melted
- granulated sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- cream cheese, softened
- granulated sugar
- whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream)
For the Strawberry Topping:
- strawberry gelatin (Jell-O)
- boiling water
- fresh strawberries, diced
- extra whole mini pretzels for topping (optional)
directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and ¼ cup granulated sugar. Mix until evenly coated.
- Press the pretzel mixture into the bottom of a 9×13 inch glass baking dish to form a firm, even crust.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then allow to cool completely.
- In another bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and ½ cup granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is fully incorporated.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust, ensuring you seal the edges to prevent the gelatin from seeping through. Chill for 15–20 minutes.
- While chilling, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in 2 cups of boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved. Let the mixture cool to room temperature.
- Stir in the diced strawberries.
- Carefully pour the strawberry mixture over the cream layer, distributing the strawberries evenly.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
- Before serving, garnish with whole mini pretzels on top for added crunch and visual appeal.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 12 slices
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 295 kcal per slice
Variations
- Berry Blend: Substitute or add raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry twist.
- Low-Sugar Version: Use sugar-free gelatin and reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter option.
- Crunchier Base: Add finely chopped nuts, such as pecans, to the crust for a deeper crunch and nutty flavor.
- Whipped Cream Alternative: Swap out the whipped topping for stabilized homemade whipped cream if preferred.
- Layered Cups: Serve in individual dessert cups for easier portioning and an elegant presentation.
storage/reheating
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is not recommended to freeze this dessert, as the gelatin may become watery when thawed. Keep it chilled until ready to serve. No reheating is necessary, as this is a cold dessert.
FAQs
What can I use instead of whipped topping?
You can use homemade whipped cream stabilized with a bit of cornstarch or gelatin to ensure it holds its shape.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, this dessert is ideal for making ahead. Prepare it the night before and chill overnight to ensure it sets well.
Is it necessary to bake the crust?
Yes, baking the crust helps it firm up and prevents it from becoming soggy once layered.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are preferred for texture, but thawed and drained frozen strawberries can be used in a pinch.
Can I use a different flavor of gelatin?
Absolutely. Raspberry or cherry gelatin pairs well with the pretzel and cream cheese layers.
How do I prevent the gelatin from leaking into the crust?
Ensure the cream cheese layer is spread all the way to the edges, fully sealing the crust before adding the gelatin layer.
What type of pretzels work best?
Mini pretzel twists or sticks crushed finely work well. Avoid flavored or coated pretzels.
Can I use a different fruit instead of strawberries?
Yes, fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or peaches can be used, but make sure they complement the flavor of your gelatin.
Why did my gelatin sink into the cream layer?
The gelatin may have been too warm when poured. Ensure it’s at room temperature before adding it to the dessert.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
Not by default, due to the pretzels. However, you can use gluten-free pretzels to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Conclusion
Strawberry Pretzel Dessert Salad is a delightful blend of textures and flavors that captures the charm of classic American potluck fare. With its no-bake nature and refreshing layers, it’s the kind of dessert that earns rave reviews and disappears quickly from the dessert table. Whether you’re indulging in summer nostalgia or simply craving a creamy, crunchy treat, this dessert is sure to satisfy.
Print
Strawberry Pretzel Dessert Salad
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This no-bake Strawberry Pretzel Dessert Salad is a nostalgic, sweet-and-salty treat layered with a crunchy pretzel crust, creamy whipped cheesecake center, and a glistening strawberry Jell-O topping. It’s the perfect make-ahead dessert for summer parties, potlucks, BBQs, or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Pretzel Crust:
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2 cups crushed pretzels
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3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream)
For the Strawberry Topping:
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1 box (6 oz) strawberry gelatin (Jell-O)
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2 cups boiling water
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2 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
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Extra whole mini pretzels for topping (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
-
In a mixing bowl, combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and ¼ cup sugar. Press into the bottom of a 9×13 inch glass baking dish to form an even layer.
-
Bake for 10 minutes, then cool completely.
-
In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese with ½ cup sugar until smooth. Fold in the whipped topping until well combined.
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Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust, sealing all edges to prevent leaks. Chill for 15–20 minutes.
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While chilling, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in boiling water. Allow it to cool to room temperature (do not let it set). Stir in diced strawberries.
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Gently pour the strawberry mixture over the cream cheese layer.
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Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
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Before serving, top with whole mini pretzels for a crunchy garnish.
Notes
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Make sure the cream cheese layer is sealed well against the edges to prevent the Jell-O from seeping into the crust.
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Can be made a day in advance.
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Use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not in season (thaw and drain well).
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- chill time: 4 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
