This Sweet And Salty Dessert Salad Is A Little Retro, But Boy Is It Delicious!
This Sweet And Salty Dessert Salad Is A Little Retro, But Boy Is It Delicious!
The name may sound a bit unusual, but trust us on this one—it’s absolutely delightful! Pretzel jello salad pays tribute to those iconic and sometimes quirky 1960s recipes that often featured various types of gelatin. In this ‘salad,’ we’ve combined strawberry jello and fresh strawberries with a thick layer of sweet cream cheese, all atop a pretzel crust that adds just the right amount of salty crunch to perfectly complement the creamy and fruity layers above.
This dessert is incredibly easy to make and travels well, making it a favorite for potlucks and summer barbecues. Guests always rave about its retro appearance and, most importantly, its fantastic taste!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dessert is a perfect blend of sweet and salty flavors, which makes it irresistible. It’s easy to prepare, visually appealing, and a definite crowd-pleaser. Plus, it brings a nostalgic touch to any gathering!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 13×9-inch baking dish
- Medium mixing bowl
- Large mixing bowl
- Nonstick spray
- Oven
Ingredients
Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups crushed pretzels
- 3/4 cup butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Cake:
- 1 1/2 pounds strawberries, halved
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1 (6 oz) package of strawberry Jello
- 1 8-oz tub of whipped topping
- 3/4 cup sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400ºF and grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a medium bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, sugar, and cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter and mix thoroughly.
- 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 it aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese and sugar. Gently fold in the whipped topping.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust, then refrigerate for 1 hour, or until set.
- In another large bowl, combine the Jello packet with boiling water and stir thoroughly until completely dissolved. Let it cool to room temperature.
- Top the cream cheese layer with strawberry halves, then gently pour the cooled gelatin over the cream cheese layer.
- Refrigerate until set, about 2-3 hours.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Tips for Success
Make sure to allow each layer to properly set in the refrigerator to achieve the perfect texture. Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor, and be patient when pouring the gelatin to ensure a smooth finish.
Additional Tips or Variations
For a fun twist, try using different flavors of Jello or incorporating other fruits like raspberries or blueberries. You can also experiment with flavored whipped toppings for an extra kick.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Calories: 320
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Protein: 4g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dessert can be made a day in advance, making it a convenient option for gatherings.
What if I don’t have pretzels?
You can substitute with graham crackers or any crunchy biscuit if pretzels are not available.
Conclusion
We hope you give this sweet and salty dessert salad a try! It’s a delightful treat that combines nostalgia with fresh flavors. Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative variations you come up with. Enjoy!
