This Strawberry Pretzel Jello is a nostalgic favorite that balances salty, sweet, and creamy textures in every bite. The base consists of crushed pretzels mixed with butter and sugar, baked into a crisp, crunchy crust. This is topped with a smooth, rich layer of cream cheese and whipped topping. Finally, a vibrant strawberry Jell-O layer, infused with real strawberry juice, adds a refreshing fruitiness. It’s the perfect make-ahead dish for potlucks, summer gatherings, or family dinners. Simple to assemble with pantry staples, this dessert offers a delightful contrast of flavors that everyone loves.
Strawberry Pretzel Jello
Description
This Strawberry Pretzel Jello is a nostalgic favorite that balances salty, sweet, and creamy textures in every bite. The base consists of crushed pretzels mixed with butter and sugar, baked into a crisp, crunchy crust. This is topped with a smooth, rich layer of cream cheese and whipped topping. Finally, a vibrant strawberry Jell-O layer, infused with real strawberry juice, adds a refreshing fruitiness. It&# 226;ÂÂs the perfect make-ahead dish for potlucks, summer gatherings, or family dinners. Simple to assemble with pantry staples, this dessert offers a delightful contrast of flavors that everyone loves.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 400ðF (200ðC).
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In a medium bowl, combine the broken pretzels, melted butter, and 3 tablespoons of sugar until evenly coated.
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Press the pretzel mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking pan to form an even crust.
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Bake the crust for 8 minutes, then remove from oven and let cool completely.
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In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup of sugar until smooth and creamy.
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Gently fold in the Cool Whip until fully incorporated and no white streaks remain.
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Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust.
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In a separate large bowl, dissolve the strawberry Jell-O powder in 2 cups of boiling water, stirring for at least 2 minutes.
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Stir the partially thawed strawberries and their juice into the Jell-O mixture.
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Refrigerate the Jell-O mixture for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a syrupy consistency (soft-set).
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Pour the thickened Jell-O mixture over the cream cheese layer, spreading gently to cover.
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Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the top layer is completely set, before slicing and serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 246.9kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15.7g25%
- Saturated Fat 9.3g47%
- Cholesterol 41.9mg14%
- Sodium 370.3mg16%
- Total Carbohydrate 22.6g8%
- Dietary Fiber 1.1g5%
- Sugars 2.9g
- Protein 4.6g10%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For best results, ensure the pretzel crust is completely cool before adding the cream cheese layer to prevent melting.
Do not skip the soft-setting step for the Jell-O. If you pour liquid Jell-O directly onto the cream cheese, it will sink through. It should be thick like pudding before pouring.
You can substitute fresh strawberries for frozen, but ensure you have about 1 cup of fruit plus enough juice to make up the volume if the fruit is not juicy enough.
This dessert needs to chill for several hours to set properly. Plan ahead for parties or dinners.
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
