Description
Pineapple Pretzel Salad is a delightful layered dessert combining a crunchy, salty pretzel crust with a creamy sweet cream cheese layer and a fruity pineapple gelatin topping. This no-bake, refrigerator-set treat is perfect for parties and potlucks, offering a delicious balance of textures and flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups pretzel crumbs (about 2 cups crushed pretzels)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
Pineapple Layer
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 package (3 oz) strawberry gelatin (or any flavor you prefer)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine pretzel crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Stir well to combine fully.
- Form and Bake Crust: Press the pretzel mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to create an even crust layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes to set the crust, then remove and allow it to cool completely.
- Make Cream Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with the powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is well combined and fluffy.
- Spread Cream Cheese Layer: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled pretzel crust, creating an even layer.
- Prepare Pineapple Gelatin Layer: In another bowl, combine the drained crushed pineapple, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and the package of strawberry gelatin. Stir thoroughly to dissolve the gelatin and mix all ingredients together.
- Assemble and Chill: Spread the pineapple mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer. Refrigerate the entire salad for at least 2 to 3 hours, or until the layers have fully set and firmed up.
- Serve: Once chilled and set, slice the salad into servings, serve cold, and enjoy this refreshing, layered dessert!
Notes
- Ensure the pineapple is well-drained to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
- You can substitute strawberry gelatin with any preferred flavor for a different twist.
- For best results, allow the salad to chill overnight so the layers fully set.
- Use softened cream cheese for easier mixing and a smoother cream cheese layer.
- Press the pretzel crust firmly to help it hold together after baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
