Strawberry Pecan Pretzel Salad Recipe
Strawberry Pecan Pretzel Salad is a delightful layered dessert combining a crunchy, sweet and salty pretzel-pecan crust with a creamy cream cheese filling and fresh diced strawberries. This no-bake chilled salad offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a popular treat for potlucks, parties, and family gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Crust Ingredients
- 1 cup crushed pretzels
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ¾ cup butter, melted
Filling Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups Cool Whip (or use whipped cream)
Topping
- 3 cups diced strawberries
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Crust Mix: Preheat your oven to 400˚F. In a bowl, combine crushed pretzels, chopped pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter, mixing thoroughly to evenly coat the pretzels and pecans.
- Bake Crust: Spread the pretzel mixture evenly on a large baking sheet with sides (a jelly roll pan works well). Bake at 400˚F for 7 minutes until the sugar is melted and the mixture is fragrant. Remove from oven and allow it to cool completely, then break into small pieces. Set aside.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold in the Cool Whip or whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined, creating a light and fluffy filling. Cover this mixture and store it in the refrigerator until ready to assemble.
- Combine and Serve: Just before serving, stir the diced strawberries and the cooled, sugared pretzel-pecan pieces into the cream cheese mixture. Mix gently to distribute evenly, then serve chilled.
Notes
- Ensure the pretzel mixture is completely cool before mixing with the cream cheese to prevent melting.
- You can substitute Cool Whip with freshly whipped cream for a fresher taste.
- For a nut-free version, omit pecans and add extra pretzels or crushed graham crackers.
- This dessert is best served chilled and consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.
- To speed up prep, dice strawberries ahead of time and keep refrigerated.
