This layered strawberry pretzel dessert combines a salty pretzel crust, a smooth cream cheese layer, and a refreshing strawberry jello topping. It’s a nostalgic and irresistible treat that’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy Strawberry Pretzel Dessert is a classic for a reason. The combination of sweet and salty, crunchy and creamy, creates a texture and flavor contrast that’s hard to beat. The buttery pretzel crust provides a crisp base, the no-bake cheesecake layer adds richness, and the strawberry jello brings brightness and color. It’s a crowd-pleaser for potlucks, barbecues, spring brunches, or summer picnics.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Crust:
- 2 cups pretzels, crushed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (or heavy whipped cream)
For the Strawberry Jello Topping:
- 1 box (6 oz) strawberry jello
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 1/2 cups sliced fresh strawberries
Directions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and sugar. Press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes. Let cool completely.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer: Beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped topping. Spread evenly over the cooled crust.
- Prepare the Jello Layer: Dissolve the strawberry jello in 2 cups of boiling water. Let cool for 15 minutes. Once cooled, stir in the sliced fresh strawberries.
- Assemble the Dessert: Carefully pour the jello mixture over the cream cheese layer. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until the jello is fully set.
- Serve: Top with additional whipped cream and fresh strawberry slices before serving, if desired.
Servings and timing
Servings: 12 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes (including refrigeration)
Calories per serving: Approximately 250 kcal
Variations
- Berry Blend: Add blueberries or raspberries for extra flavor and color.
- Lemon Twist: Use lemon jello and fresh blueberries for a zesty version.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Top with a thin drizzle of melted chocolate for added richness.
- Mini Cups: Assemble in individual cups for easy serving and portion control.
- Nut-Free Base: Replace pretzels with graham cracker crumbs if you prefer a less salty crust.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Do not freeze, as the texture of the jello and cream layer may degrade.
This dessert is served cold, so no reheating is necessary.
FAQs
Can I use sugar-free jello?
Yes, sugar-free jello works well and is a great option for reducing overall sugar.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but thaw and drain them thoroughly before using to avoid excess liquid.
Why did my jello layer sink into the cream cheese?
The jello was likely too warm. Let it cool for at least 15–20 minutes before pouring.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, it’s ideal for making a day in advance to allow the layers to set fully.
What’s the best way to crush pretzels?
Use a food processor or place them in a sealed bag and crush with a rolling pin.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of a tub?
Yes, whip 1 cup of heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then use in place of the whipped topping.
How do I get clean slices?
Chill well and use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between cuts.
Is this dessert gluten-free?
Only if you use gluten-free pretzels. Regular pretzels contain gluten.
Can I add a gelatin stabilizer to the whipped cream?
You can, but it’s not necessary if serving within a day or two.
Can I make this in a round or smaller dish?
Yes, just adjust the ingredient amounts and check layer thickness accordingly.
Conclusion
Easy Strawberry Pretzel Dessert is a refreshing, nostalgic favorite that never goes out of style. With its crunchy base, creamy center, and vibrant fruit topping, it’s a perfect addition to spring and summer events. Simple to make and visually appealing, it’s guaranteed to be a hit with all ages.
Easy Strawberry Pretzel Dessert
A classic layered dessert with a crunchy pretzel crust, smooth cream cheese filling, and a refreshing strawberry jello topping. This sweet and salty treat is perfect for spring and summer gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Chilled
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups pretzels, crushed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (or equivalent amount of whipped cream)
- 1 box (6 oz) strawberry jello
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 1/2 cups sliced fresh strawberries
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix crushed pretzels, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake crust for 10 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth. Gently fold in whipped topping.
- Spread cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled crust, ensuring it reaches the edges to prevent jello from seeping through.
- In another bowl, dissolve strawberry jello in 2 cups boiling water. Let cool for about 15 minutes.
- Stir in sliced fresh strawberries into the cooled jello mixture.
- Carefully pour the jello mixture over the cream cheese layer. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
- Top with additional whipped cream and fresh strawberries before serving, if desired.
Notes
- Make sure each layer is completely cool before adding the next to prevent mixing.
- Use stabilized whipped cream or whipped topping for better consistency.
- Press crust firmly to prevent it from crumbling when serving.
- Use a sharp knife and warm water to slice cleanly through the jello layer.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg