by Jackie Curtis

Created on: September 07, 2008   Last Updated: February 08, 2009

Strawberry Pretzel Dessert surprises the taste buds of many due to its unique combination of ingredients mixed together and spread into three distinct layers. A crunchy pretzel crust helps form the base for which mounds of sweet whipped topping, cream cheese, and sugar float upon. Plump strawberries are captured in a mixture of jello and poured to form the top layer providing the salty sweet tastes waiting to be discovered from within. This dish may be served at the end of the meal, but it also substitutes well as a salad for casual occasions.

Inheriting this recipe from my mother-in-law who obtained it from her mother, Strawberry Pretzel Dessert continues to gain new fans from among our growing family and friends. Always found on the table at large family gatherings, it has become a yearly favorite at neighborhood barbecues and school brunches too.

STRAWBERRY PRETZEL DESSERT

INGREDIENTS:

1 1/2 cups coarsely crushed pretzels

1/2 cup butter, melted

1 cup plus 1/2 cup sugar

1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened

1 (8 oz.) tub Cool Whip whipped topping

1 (6 0z.) package strawberry gelatin

2 1/2 cups boiling water

2 cups frozen strawberries

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

In large bowl, combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and 1/2 cup sugar. Press firmly onto bottom of 13" x 9" baking dish. Bake in oven for 7 minutes: let cool.

In large mixing bowl, mix softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar. Fold in whipped topping. Spread on cooled pretzel crust. Refrigerate.

Using a large bowl, slowly add 2 1/2 cups boiling water to strawberry gelatin, stirring constantly, until gelatin is dissolved. Add frozen strawberries and stir until strawberries thaw. Refrigerate mixture for 2 hours. Pour thickened strawberry gelatin onto cream cheese layer and refrigerate entire dessert until top layer is set. For best results, refrigerate entire dessert overnight before serving.

Divide the dessert evenly by cutting into 3" x 3" squares. A flat spatula works perfectly for serving. Makes 12 servings.

Learn more about this author, Jackie Curtis.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.