Strawberry JELLO PRETZEL SALAD

Imagine a delightful dessert that’s both sweet and salty, creamy and crunchy. That’s exactly what you get with this Strawberry JELLO Pretzel Salad. This recipe is a delightful combination of textures and flavors, perfect for any occasion, especially during family gatherings or holidays. It’s a sweet treat that’s sure to become a staple on your dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry JELLO Pretzel Salad combines the crunch of pretzels with the smoothness of cream cheese and the fruity flavor of strawberry JELLO. It’s easy to make, requires minimal cooking, and will impress your guests with its unique taste and presentation. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that you can adapt to your taste preferences.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Food processor or blender
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Electric mixer
• Medium mixing bowl
• Small saucepan

Ingredients

Layer 1:

• 1 3/4 cups crushed pretzels (about 6-7 cups of pretzels)
• 3/4 cup salted butter, melted (12 tablespoons)
• 3 tablespoons of sugar

Layer 2:

• 12 ounces of cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 8 ounces of whipped topping, softened (1 container)

Layer 3:

• 2 cups boiling water
• 6 ounces strawberry JELLO (two 3-ounce boxes)
• 2 cups frozen strawberries

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13 inch pan and set it aside.
2. Crush the pretzels using a food processor or blender. Mix in the melted butter and sugar until well combined. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let it cool in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
3. In a medium bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the cream cheese until smooth. Add the sugar and continue mixing. Fold in the whipped topping until well combined.
4. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled pretzel crust, ensuring you reach the edges to prevent the JELLO layer from leaking. Refrigerate for about 1 hour, or until set.
5. In a small saucepan, bring the water to a boil and dissolve the strawberry JELLO. Stir for about 2 minutes until fully dissolved. Add the frozen strawberries and let the mixture sit for a few minutes to thicken slightly.
6. Pour the strawberry mixture over the cream cheese layer. Refrigerate until the JELLO is firm, at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to achieve a smooth texture.
• Press the pretzel crust firmly into the pan to avoid crumbling.
• Chill each layer adequately before adding the next to maintain distinct layers.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For a twist, try using different fruits and JELLO flavors like raspberry or peach.
• Add a layer of fresh fruit on top for an extra burst of flavor and color.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 320 | Total Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 50mg | Sodium: 230mg | Total Carbohydrates: 35g | Dietary Fiber: 1g | Sugars: 28g | Protein: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! It’s actually better if made a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld.

Can I use fresh strawberries?
Yes, fresh strawberries can be used, but you may need to adjust the setting time as they might release more juice.

Conclusion

This Strawberry JELLO Pretzel Salad is a must-try recipe that brings a unique twist to traditional desserts. It’s easy to make, refreshingly sweet, and always a crowd-pleaser. We hope you enjoy making and eating it as much as we do! Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative variations you try.