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strawberry pretzel salad recipe Side view of a slice of Iconic Strawberry Pretzel Salad, showing clear layers of crunchy pretzel, creamy filling, and strawberry agar agar with fresh fruit

Iconic Strawberry Pretzel Salad

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Unleash a symphony of sweet, salty, and creamy with this legendary Strawberry Pretzel Salad! A vibrant layer of fresh strawberries suspended in glistening agar agar sits atop a cloud-like cream cheese filling, all grounded by a delightfully crunchy, buttery pretzel crust. It’s an unforgettable dessert (or side dish!) that disappears faster than you can say ‘crackle!’.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups finely crushed pretzels (about 4 cups whole pretzels)
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for crust)
  • 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (for cream cheese layer)
  • 1 (12 ounce) container whipped topping, thawed (like Cool Whip)
  • 2 (3 ounce) packages strawberry agar agar dessert mix
  • 2 cups boiling water
  • 2 cups cold water
  • 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the finely crushed pretzels, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let the crust cool completely on a wire rack.
  2. While the crust cools, prepare the creamy layer. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup granulated sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until no streaks remain and the mixture is light and fluffy.
  3. Once the pretzel crust is completely cooled, carefully spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust. Ensure the cream cheese layer extends to the edges to create a seal, preventing the agar agar from seeping into the pretzel crust. Place the dish in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the strawberry layer, for at least 30 minutes.
  4. In a separate large heatproof bowl, dissolve the two packages of strawberry agar agar dessert mix in 2 cups of boiling water. Stir until the agar agar is completely dissolved, about 2-3 minutes. Add 2 cups of cold water and stir again. Let this mixture cool to room temperature, about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent gelling.
  5. Once the agar agar mixture has cooled to room temperature (it should be slightly thickened but still pourable), gently fold in the sliced fresh strawberries. Pour this strawberry agar agar mixture carefully over the chilled cream cheese layer, spreading it evenly.
  6. Refrigerate the Strawberry Pretzel Salad for at least 3-4 hours, or preferably overnight, until the agar agar is completely set and firm. Slice into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy this delightful medley of textures and flavors!

Notes

For best results, ensure the cream cheese layer is spread completely to the edges of the pan to create a barrier for the agar agar. This prevents the pretzel crust from becoming soggy. Store any leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This salad is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a refreshing summer treat! You can also try other berry agar agar flavors like raspberry or cherry for a fun twist.

  • Author: Fork Haven
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Bake (with brief baking for crust)
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 1/12th of recipe)
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 45g
  • Sodium: 280mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

Find it online: https://forkhaven.com/strawberry-pretzel-salad-recipe/

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