Strawberry Jello Pretzel Salad

This Strawberry Jello Pretzel Salad is the ultimate dessert that perfectly balances sweet and salty. With a crunchy pretzel crust, a creamy cream cheese filling, and a fresh strawberry jello topping, it’s an irresistible treat that’s ideal for potlucks, parties, or any special occasion. This dessert is as fun to make as it is to eat, offering layers of flavor and texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Strawberry Jello Pretzel Salad is a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. The salty crunch of the pretzel crust contrasts beautifully with the creamy, tangy cream cheese layer and the sweet, fruity jello topping. It’s a simple dessert to prepare in advance and is always a hit at gatherings. The combination of sweetness, tanginess, and crunch will leave you craving more!

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups pretzels, crushed

• 1 ½ cups sugar, divided

• ¾ cup butter, melted

• 12 ounces cream cheese, softened

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 12 ounces Cool Whip

• 3-4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

• 6 ounces strawberry gelatin (2 packages – 6 ounces total)

• 2 cups water, boiled

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, ¾ cup sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool completely.

   Tip: To crush the pretzels, place them in a ziplock bag and use a rolling pin, wooden spoon, or your hands to crush them.

3. In a medium bowl, mix the boiled water with the strawberry jello and stir until the jello is completely dissolved. Stir in the sliced strawberries. Place the mixture in the fridge until the jello is partially set (about 1 hour).

4. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, remaining ¾ cup sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined. Fold in the Cool Whip.

5. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust, making sure to cover the entire crust and touch the sides of the pan to prevent the jello from seeping into the crust.

6. Refrigerate until chilled, then carefully pour or spoon the partially set strawberry jello mixture over the top of the cream cheese layer.

7. Cover and refrigerate the entire dish for about 3-4 hours, or until the jello and the salad are firm.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Chill Time: 1 hour

• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

• Servings: 16 servings

• Calories: 290 kcal per serving

Variations

• Different Jello Flavors: Try substituting the strawberry jello with raspberry, cherry, or blueberry jello for a different fruity flavor.

• Add Nuts: For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cream cheese layer before adding the jello topping.

• Sugar-Free Version: Use sugar-free jello and Cool Whip, and substitute the sugar with a sugar substitute if you’re looking to reduce sugar content.

• Add Fruit: Add additional fruits such as sliced bananas, kiwi, or pineapple on top of the cream cheese layer before adding the jello for more texture and color.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Strawberry Jello Pretzel Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The layers will remain firm and fresh, and the dish will continue to be just as delicious as the day it was made.

• Reheating: This dessert is served chilled, so there’s no need for reheating. Simply keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes! Strawberry Jello Pretzel Salad is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it the night before and let it chill overnight. It will hold up well in the fridge.

Can I use a different type of crust?

While the pretzel crust is key to the salty-sweet flavor profile, you can experiment with other crusts such as graham cracker or cookie crust if you prefer a different taste or texture.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to prevent excess moisture in the jello mixture.

How do I know when the jello is “partially set”?

The jello should be thickened but still slightly runny, which will allow it to stay on top of the cream cheese layer without sinking into it. Check the consistency by dipping a spoon into the jello; it should coat the spoon but still be pourable.

Can I make this dessert gluten-free?

Yes! This dessert can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pretzels for the crust.

Can I freeze Strawberry Jello Pretzel Salad?

While you can freeze this dessert, it is best enjoyed fresh. Freezing may affect the texture of the Cool Whip and jello layers, so it’s recommended to store it in the fridge instead.

Can I use a different type of Cool Whip or whipped topping?

Yes, you can use homemade whipped cream or another brand of whipped topping instead of Cool Whip. Just ensure it’s well whipped and airy to maintain the creamy texture.

What can I serve this dessert with?

This dessert pairs beautifully with a light, refreshing salad or alongside other fruit-based desserts. It’s also great on its own for a sweet treat!

Is there an alternative to using cream cheese?

For a lighter version, you can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt, though the texture and flavor will be slightly different.

Can I use a larger baking dish?

Yes, you can use a larger baking dish if you want to make a thinner layer of the dessert, but be sure to adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly.

Conclusion

Strawberry Jello Pretzel Salad is a deliciously refreshing dessert that brings together the best of both sweet and salty worlds. With its layers of crunchy pretzel crust, creamy cream cheese filling, and fruity strawberry topping, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Easy to make ahead and perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or family gatherings, this dessert will quickly become a favorite!

Print