This fun strawberry pretzel jello salad combines the crunch of pretzels with sweet strawberries and creamy layers. It’s a treat that feels like dessert but is super easy to make!
I love how the salty pretzels balance the sweet jello. Plus, it’s a hit at family gatherings! Just layer everything and let it chill—so simple, even I can’t mess it up! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pretzel Twists: The salty pretzel crust is essential for balancing the sweetness. You can use other pretzel shapes or even crushed crackers like Ritz for a different flavor.
Cream Cheese: This adds richness and creaminess. If you’re lactose intolerant, try using a dairy-free cream cheese. You can also use Greek yogurt for a lighter option, but it will change the flavor slightly.
Whipped Topping: Cool Whip is popular for its convenience. If you want a homemade version, whip some heavy cream with a bit of sugar until fluffy. Coconut whipped topping is a great dairy-free alternative, too.
Strawberry Jell-O: Strawberry flavor is traditional. You could swap it for raspberry or cherry Jell-O for a fun twist or even use gelatin with fruit juice if you’re looking for a natural option.
How Do I Get My Pretzel Crust to Hold Together?
The pretzel crust needs just the right mix of ingredients and technique to stay firm. Here’s how:
- Mix crushed pretzels, melted butter, and sugar well until combined, ensuring every piece is coated.
- Press the mixture firmly into the baking dish—this helps it hold together as it bakes.
- Baking for 10 minutes allows it to form a nice crust. Let it cool completely before adding layers on top.
Easy Strawberry Pretzel Jello Salad
Ingredients
- For the Pretzel Crust:
- 2 cups pretzel twists, crushed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 8 oz whipped topping (such as Cool Whip), divided
- For the Jell-O Layer:
- 2 (3 oz) packages strawberry-flavored Jell-O
- 2 cups boiling water
- For the Topping:
- 3 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup fresh blueberries (for garnish)
Time Needed
This delightful recipe requires about 15 minutes for prep time, with an additional 4 hours of chilling time in the refrigerator. It’s perfect for making ahead of time for parties or gatherings!
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the crushed pretzels, granulated sugar, and melted butter until everything is well combined. Once mixed, press this pretzel mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will form the crunchy crust.
2. Bake the Crust
Pop the pretzel crust in the oven and bake it for about 10 minutes. Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool completely—this will help it firm up before adding the next layers!
3. Make the Cream Cheese Layer
While the crust is cooling, grab a large bowl. Beat together the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until the mix is smooth and creamy. Then, gently fold in 1 cup of the whipped topping until everything is well blended. This creamy layer is going to be delicious!
4. Assemble the Layers
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust, ensuring it’s smoothed out. Now, let’s work on the Jell-O.
5. Prepare the Jell-O
Dissolve both packages of strawberry Jell-O in 2 cups of boiling water, stirring until it’s completely dissolved. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, but don’t let it start to set yet.
6. Add the Strawberries
With the Jell-O cooling, arrange the sliced strawberries evenly over the cream cheese layer. This adds a fresh and fruity touch!
7. Finish with Jell-O
Once the Jell-O has cooled enough, carefully pour it over the strawberries, making sure it covers them evenly.
8. Chill and Serve
Cover the entire dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or until the Jell-O is fully set. Just before you’re ready to serve, spread the remaining whipped topping over the top of the Jell-O layer or pipe it in fun stripes. For extra flair, garnish one corner with fresh blueberries to give it a festive, American flag look!
9. Enjoy!
Slice the salad into squares, serve chilled, and watch it disappear at your gatherings—everyone will love it!
This refreshing and fun strawberry pretzel jello salad combines crunchy pretzels, creamy layers, and fruity goodness, perfect for any celebration. Enjoy!
FAQ: Easy Strawberry Pretzel Jello Salad
Can I Use Sugar-Free Jell-O for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the regular strawberry Jell-O with sugar-free Jell-O to make a lighter version of this salad. Just keep in mind that the flavor and sweetness may be slightly different, but it will still set nicely.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cover it well, as the pretzel crust may become soggy if it’s exposed to moisture for too long.
Can I Make This Salad the Day Before?
Yes! In fact, making it a day in advance can help the flavors meld together even more. Just be sure to keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or have dietary restrictions, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute for cream cheese. It will give you a similar creamy texture with fewer calories. Alternatively, dairy-free cream cheese is another great option.
