Strawberry Pretzel Salad Recipe Overview
Introduction
Strawberry Pretzel Salad is a delightful dessert that strikes the perfect balance between sweet, salty, and creamy textures. Originating from a family recipe passed down by a daughter to her mother, this dish has garnered popularity for its irresistible flavors and simple preparation.
Recipe Details
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Preparation Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 18
- Calories per Serving: 345.4 kcal
- Rating: 5 stars (based on 83 reviews)
Ingredients
The recipe combines pantry staples with fresh ingredients, ensuring each layer contributes to the salad’s overall appeal:
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Crust:
- 2 cups crushed pretzels
- 3/4 cup melted butter
- 3 tablespoons white sugar
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Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup white sugar
- 2 cups whipped topping
-
Strawberry Gelatin Layer:
- 1 package (6 ounces) strawberry gelatin
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 package (16 ounces) frozen strawberries
Instructions
-
Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and 3 tablespoons of white sugar. Mix well until thoroughly combined.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, until it is set and lightly browned. Allow it to cool completely.
-
Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the cream cheese and 1 cup of white sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Fold in the whipped topping gently until fully incorporated.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust.
-
Prepare the Strawberry Gelatin Layer:
- In another bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in 2 cups of boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved.
- Add the frozen strawberries to the gelatin mixture and stir until the strawberries begin to thaw and the mixture thickens slightly. It should reach a consistency similar to egg whites.
-
Assemble and Chill:
- Carefully pour the strawberry gelatin mixture over the cream cheese layer, spreading it evenly.
- Refrigerate the dessert until it is fully set, typically for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Tips for Success
- Pretzel Texture: Ensure the pretzel crust is adequately crushed but not too fine to maintain a crunchy texture after baking.
- Cream Cheese Consistency: Soften the cream cheese at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth and creamy texture without lumps.
- Gelatin Setting: Allow the strawberry gelatin mixture to cool slightly before pouring it over the cream cheese layer to prevent it from melting the cream cheese layer.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 345.4 kcal per serving
- Fat: 15.9g
- Saturated Fat: 10.2g
- Cholesterol: 34.2mg
- Sodium: 499.4mg
- Carbohydrates: 48.2g
- Fiber: 1.4g
- Sugar: 26.8g
- Protein: 4.5g
Serving and Presentation
Serve chilled, cut into squares or scooped into bowls. The vibrant layers of pretzel crust, creamy cheese, and fruity gelatin are visually appealing and perfect for gatherings or special occasions.
Conclusion
Strawberry Pretzel Salad is more than just a dessert; it’s a cherished recipe that brings together the tangy sweetness of strawberries with the salty crunch of pretzels and the creamy richness of cream cheese. Whether you’re new to making desserts or a seasoned chef, this recipe promises to be a hit with its blend of flavors and textures. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful treat with your loved ones!
