Description
This Classic Strawberry Pretzel Jello Salad is a delightful combination of salty and sweet flavors featuring a crunchy pretzel crust, a creamy cheesecake layer, fresh strawberries, and a vibrant strawberry Jell-O topping. Perfect for gatherings and potlucks, this no-bake dessert is simple to assemble and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups crushed pretzels
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 8 ounces Cool Whip
- 6-ounce box strawberry Jell-O
- 2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Cheesecake Layer
Topping
Instructions
- Prepare Jell-O: Dissolve the strawberry Jell-O powder in a bowl with boiling water according to package instructions and allow it to cool to room temperature.
- Make Pretzel Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, granulated sugar, and melted unsalted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking pan to form an even crust. Chill the crust in the refrigerator to set.
- Create Cheesecake Layer: Beat the softened cream cheese with sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the Cool Whip until fully combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Assemble Cheesecake Layer: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled pretzel crust. Return the pan to the refrigerator and chill for about one hour to firm up the cheesecake layer.
- Add Fruit and Jell-O: After the cheesecake layer has set, arrange the sliced fresh strawberries evenly on top. Carefully pour the cooled, but not yet set, strawberry Jell-O over the strawberries, ensuring they are fully covered. Refrigerate the entire dessert until the Jell-O layer is firmly set, typically 3-4 hours or overnight.
Notes
- For best results, allow the cream cheese to soften at room temperature before mixing.
- Ensure the Jell-O is completely cooled before pouring over the strawberries to prevent melting the cheesecake layer.
- You can substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream for a fresher option.
- This dessert is best served chilled and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For variation, try using other berry flavors of Jell-O and corresponding fresh fruit.
