The Ultimate Strawberry Pretzel Salad (With an Irresistible Pretzel Crunch)
A modern take on the classic Strawberry Pretzel Salad. This version keeps the pretzel base extra crunchy by mixing it in right before serving, ensuring every bite has that perfect sweet and salty snap.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 10
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
2 cup crushed pretzels
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup butter, melted
4 cups sliced strawberries
2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
16 oz cool whip
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, add pretzel pieces, chopped pecans, and brown sugar and mix together. Pour melted butter over ingredients and mix until well combined.
3. Spread pretzel mixture on the lined baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes or until bubbling. Set pan aside to fully cool before breaking into small pieces.
4. In a large bowl, mix together cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract. Once smooth, fold in the cool whip until just combined. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
5. For serving: Top cream mixture with sliced strawberries and cooled pretzel crunch. Mix in right before serving and top with more pretzel crunch if desired.
Notes
Do not assemble the crunch and the cream mixture too early, as the pretzels will lose their texture.
You can use pecans or walnuts, or omit the nuts entirely for a nut-free version.
Ensure the cream cheese is fully at room temperature to avoid lumps.