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Strawberry Pretzel Salad

Strawberry Pretzel Salad


  • Author: Emily
  • Total Time: 5 hours 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 oz strawberry Jell-O
  • 2 cups boiling water
  • 2½ cups salted pretzels (measured before crushing)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 8 oz Cool Whip (thawed)
  • 1 lb fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pretzel Crust

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Crush pretzels in a zip-top bag using a rolling pin until they resemble coarse crumbs.
  3. Mix pretzel crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until well combined.
  4. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  5. Bake for 8-10 minutes. Let cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Layer

  1. In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
  2. Fold in the thawed Cool Whip until fully combined.
  3. Once the crust has cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the pretzel crust.
  4. Make sure to seal the edges to prevent the Jell-O from seeping down.
  5. Chill in the fridge while you prepare the top layer.

Step 3: Prepare the Strawberry Layer

  1. In a large bowl, dissolve the Jell-O in boiling water.
  2. Let it cool slightly (about 10-15 minutes).
  3. Stir in the sliced strawberries.
  4. Gently pour the strawberry Jell-O mixture over the cream cheese layer.
  5. Carefully return the dish to the fridge and chill for at least 4 hours, or until the Jell-O is fully set.

Notes

  • Crust Tips: Press the pretzel crust firmly with the bottom of a measuring cup to avoid crumbling.

  • Cream Cheese Must Be Soft: Cold cream cheese will make the filling lumpy.

  • Prevent Leaks: Spread the cream layer to the edges to keep Jell-O from seeping through.

  • Fresh vs. Frozen Berries: Fresh strawberries work best for texture and clarity in the top layer.

  • Jell-O Cooling Tip: Let the Jell-O cool a bit before pouring to avoid melting the creamy layer.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 320