Peach Pretzel Jello Salad

Have You Ever Tried a Pretzel Salad?

If not, you might be puzzled by the name. This dish, popular in the 1960s, is more of a dessert than a salad, despite its name. The combination of a buttery, cinnamon-infused pretzel crust, a thick layer of sweetened cream cheese, and a fruity jello topping makes for a delightful treat. The peach jello and peaches create a gem-like appearance, and the flavors balance perfectly with the salty, crunchy crust and creamy filling. It’s a retro recipe that checks all the boxes: crunchy, sweet, salty, creamy, and fruity!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a unique blend of sweet and salty flavors.
• The texture combination of crunchy crust and creamy filling is delightful.
• It’s visually stunning with its vibrant jello layer.
• Simple to make with ingredients you likely have on hand.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 13×9-inch baking dish
• Nonstick spray
• Medium and large mixing bowls
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Refrigerator

Ingredients

Crust:

• 2 cups pretzels, crushed
• 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Filling:

• 2 cans peaches, drained, peaches pat dry
• 2 cups water, boiling
• 1 (8 oz.) container frozen whipped topping
• 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, room temperature
• 1 (6 oz.) package peach jello
• 1/2 cup sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400ºF and grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. In a medium bowl, combine pretzels, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir in melted butter, and mix thoroughly.
3. Transfer the pretzel mixture to the baking dish, and gently press it into an even layer. Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, then set aside to let cool.
4. In a large bowl, cream together cream cheese and sugar, then gently fold in the whipped topping.
5. Spread the mixture over the cooled crust, then refrigerate for 1 hour, or until set.
6. In a large bowl, combine the jello packet with boiling water and stir thoroughly until completely dissolved. Let cool to room temperature.
7. Top the cream cheese layer with peach slices, then gently pour the gelatin over the cream cheese layer.
8. Refrigerate until set, 2-3 hours. Serve chilled, and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Make sure the pretzels are crushed finely to create a solid crust.
• Allow each layer to set properly before adding the next to ensure clean layers.
• Pat the peaches dry to avoid excess moisture in the dessert.

Additional Tips or Variations

• Try using fresh peaches instead of canned when they are in season for an even fresher taste.
• Experiment with different jello flavors and fruit combinations.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This dessert provides a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and sugars, making it a delightful occasional treat. For specific nutritional information, please consult a nutrition calculator.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use fresh peaches? Yes, fresh peaches can be used. Just make sure to slice them thinly and pat them dry before using.

How long does this dessert last? It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! It’s a great make-ahead dessert for gatherings.

Conclusion

Peach Pretzel Jello Salad is a delightful throwback to a classic dessert that never fails to impress. With its unique combination of textures and flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! We’d love to hear your thoughts and any creative twists you add to the recipe.