Pioneer Woman Strawberry Pretzel Salad

This Pioneer Woman Strawberry Pretzel Salad is a sweet and salty layered dessert, which uses crushed pretzels and strawberry Jell-O. It’s a great choice for holiday parties, ready in about 2 hours and 55 minutes including chilling time.

Pioneer Woman Strawberry Pretzel Salad Ingredients

• 2 cups crushed pretzels
• ¾ cup melted butter
• 3 tbsp granulated sugar
• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 8 oz whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream)
• 2 cups boiling water
• 1 (6 oz) package strawberry Jell-O
• 2 cups fresh strawberries (sliced)

How To Make Pioneer Woman Strawberry Pretzel Salad

1. Prep the oven and crust: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix crushed pretzels, melted butter, and sugar.
2. Bake the crust: Press the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool completely.
3. Make the cream cheese layer: In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in whipped topping until fully combined.
4. Spread and chill: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust, making sure to seal the edges. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Prepare the Jell-O layer: Dissolve strawberry Jell-O in boiling water, stirring well. Let cool slightly, then stir in sliced strawberries.
6. Add the topping and chill: Carefully pour the strawberry mixture over the cream cheese layer. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully set.
7. Slice and serve: Cut into squares and serve chilled.

Recipe Tips

• How to keep pretzel crust from getting soggy: Let the crust cool completely before adding the cream cheese layer and seal the edges well.
• Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, but thaw and drain them first to avoid excess liquid.
• How long does strawberry pretzel salad need to set? At least 2 hours, but longer chilling gives cleaner slices.
• Can I make it ahead of time? Yes, this dessert is perfect to make a day in advance.
• Why is my cream cheese layer runny? Make sure the cream cheese is softened but not melted, and chill properly before adding the Jell-O.

What To Serve With Strawberry Pretzel Salad

This layered strawberry dessert pairs well with:

• Grilled chicken or barbecue
• Holiday ham
• Fresh fruit salad
• Iced tea or lemonade
• Whipped cream on top

How To Store Strawberry Pretzel Salad

Refrigerate: Cover tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Do not freeze: Freezing can change the texture of the cream cheese and Jell-O layers.

Strawberry Pretzel Salad Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 420
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Sugar: 36g
• Protein: 4g

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I make strawberry pretzel salad without Cool Whip?
Yes, substitute with homemade whipped cream.

Why is my pretzel crust crumbly?
Press it firmly into the pan and bake as directed to help it hold together.

Can I use a different flavor of Jell-O?
Yes, raspberry or cherry work well too.

How do I get clean slices?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.

Try More Recipes:

• Pioneer Woman Strawberry Cake
• Pioneer Woman Strawberry Cobbler
• Pioneer Woman Strawberry Sorbet