Strawberry Pretzel Salad

This strawberry pretzel salad is a classic sweet and salty dessert made with a crunchy pretzel crust, creamy filling, and fresh strawberries in a strawberry gelatin layer. It’s an easy, make-ahead recipe that’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, and summer gatherings.

Prep Time20

Cook Time10

Chill Time5

Total Time5 30

Makes servings

Recipe from: Deanne Frieders | This Farm Girl Cooks

Ingredients

Pretzel Crust

2 cups crushed pretzels coarsely crushed
⅓ cup granulated sugar
10 Tablespoons unsalted butter melted

Cream Layer

8 ounces cream cheese softened
½ cup granulated sugar
8 ounces whipped topping like Cool Whip, thawed

Strawberry Layer

2 cups pineapple juice heated
1 6-ounce package strawberry gelatin (such as Jell-O)
2 cups sliced fresh strawberries about 1 pound

Instructions

Pretzel Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups crushed pretzels, ⅓ cup granulated sugar, and 10 Tablespoons unsalted butter.
Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool completely.

Cream Layer

In a large bowl, beat 8 ounces cream cheese and ½ cup granulated sugar until smooth.
Fold in 8 ounces whipped topping until fully combined.
Spread evenly over the cooled crust, making sure to seal completely to the edges.

Strawberry Layer

In a bowl, dissolve 1 6-ounce package strawberry gelatin (such as Jell-O) completely in 2 cups pineapple juice.
Refrigerate for 45–60 minutes, until slightly thickened but still pourable. Stir in 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries.
Carefully pour over the cream layer. It's okay to let the strawberries fall where they may. If you get too fussy, it can disrupt the cream layer and pull it to the top. Still great for eating but not as pretty.
Refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours or overnight, until fully set before slicing and serving.

Farm Girl Tips

Use coarsely crushed pretzels for the best texture (not too fine).
Make sure the cream layer is spread fully to the edges to prevent a soggy crust.
Slice strawberries vertically for the best texture and appearance.

Substitutions:

Crushed graham crackers can be used in place of the pretzels.
Water can be used in placed of pineapple juice.

Nutrition