Beginner Desserts: Strawberry Pretzel Salad

#mealprep #lemon8challenge

Dreamy Strawberry Pretzel Salad with Double the Cream!

This recipe takes the classic strawberry pretzel salad to a whole new level of creamy deliciousness with a combined whipped cream and cream cheese filling, and a bonus layer of whipped cream on top! #easydessert #strawberries

Ingredients:

Pretzel Crust:

2 cups crushed pretzels (about 8 ounces)

¾ cup butter, melted

3 tablespoons white sugar

Creamy Filling:

1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened

½ cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 (8 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed

Strawberry Topping:

2 (3 ounce) packages strawberry flavored gelatin

2 cups boiling water

2 (10 ounce) packages frozen sweetened sliced strawberries, thawed (or fresh strawberries, sliced)

Extra Whipped Cream (Optional):

1 (8 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed

Instructions:

Pretzel Power: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and white sugar. Mix well and press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool completely.

Creamy Dream Team: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until just combined.

Spread the Love: Pour the creamy mixture over the cooled pretzel crust and spread evenly.

Strawberry Magic: In a separate bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in boiling water until completely dissolved. Stir in the thawed frozen strawberries (or fresh, if using) and let the mixture cool slightly until it begins to thicken (about 10 minutes).

Sweet Layers: Carefully pour the strawberry mixture over the creamy filling. Refrigerate the entire dessert for at least 4 hours, or until the strawberry layer is set.

Bonus Cream (Optional): Once the salad is set, spread an extra layer of thawed whipped cream over the top for an added touch of creamy goodness.

Slice and Serve! Cut the salad into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the dreamy combination of creamy filling, sweet strawberries, and a satisfying pretzel crust.

Tips:

For a richer flavor, use brown sugar instead of white sugar in the pretzel crust.

Don't like strawberry? You can use other flavored gelatin and fruit combinations. Just be sure the fruit is already softened or pre-cooked before adding it to the gelatin mixture.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.