# Strawberry Pretzel Salad: A Tasty Treat
Strawberry pretzel salad isn’t actually a salad; it’s a simple make-ahead dessert recipe. This treat features a sweet-salty pretzel base, a light cream cheese center, and a vibrant strawberry Jell-O topping. Crunchy, creamy, and loved by all, it’s ideal for parties and celebrations.
## Strawberry Pretzel Salad Ingredients
– **Pretzels:** You can use mini pretzel twists or pretzel rods and crush them with a rolling pin.
– **Cream Cheese:** Opt for a block of cream cheese rather than the spreadable kind. Full-fat cream cheese provides the best consistency.
– **Whipped Topping:** Whipped topping (like Cool Whip) is suggested for convenience; however, you may use whipped cream if you prefer.
– **Fresh Strawberries:** For optimal flavor and visual appeal, select fresh sliced strawberries. When using frozen strawberries, add them to the hot Jell-O after mixing (no need to thaw).
– **Strawberry Gelatin:** The strawberry Jell-O layer is easy to prepare and offers a lovely topping to this dish. You can also use any red Jell-O flavor (such as raspberry). Be sure to choose the larger 6-serving box.
## Variations
This recipe can be modified with different fruits and Jell-O flavors. Consider experimenting with:
– Raspberries and raspberry Jell-O
– Canned mandarin oranges or peaches paired with orange Jell-O
## How to Prepare Strawberry Pretzel Salad
1. **Crust:** Mix the crust ingredients and press into the bottom of a baking dish.
2. **Creamy Filling:** Beat together cream cheese and sugar, then fold in the whipped topping. Spread over the pretzel base and refrigerate until set.
3. **Strawberry Topping:** Stir together strawberry Jell-O and water with strawberries, then pour over the creamy layer.
4. **Chill Overnight:** When ready to serve, cut into squares and enjoy!
## Tips for an Ideal Dessert
– **Cooling Layers:** Ensure each layer cools or chills before adding the subsequent layer.
– **Guard the Crust:** Spread the cream cheese layer completely to the edges to prevent the pretzel crust from getting soggy.
– **Cool Jell-O:** Let the Jell-O cool to room temperature prior to pouring it over the fresh strawberries to avoid wilting.
## To Prepare Pretzel Salad in Advance
– Strawberry pretzel salad is best prepared at least half a day ahead, making it an excellent choice for a dessert or potluck dish.
– It needs at least 4 hours to set but ideally longer. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
– This dessert does not freeze well.
### Nutritional Information (per serving)
– **Calories:** 244
– **Carbohydrates:** 34g
– **Protein:** 1g
– **Fat:** 12g
– **Saturated Fat:** 7g
– **Cholesterol:** 30mg
– **Sodium:** 274mg
– **Potassium:** 94mg
– **Fiber:** 1g
– **Sugar:** 22g
– **Vitamin A:** 360 IU
– **Vitamin C:** 28.2mg
– **Calcium:** 15mg
– **Iron:** 0.9mg
Strawberry pretzel salad is an enjoyable dessert that merges different textures and flavors in a distinct manner, making it a beloved choice for many. Savor this delightful treat at your upcoming gathering!