Introduction
If you’re looking for a refreshing dessert that’s both delicious and light on calories, this strawberry pretzel salad is a perfect choice. With a delightful combination of a salty pretzel crust, creamy filling, and fruity gelatin topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare. This recipe balances flavors beautifully while utilizing sugar substitutes, making it a healthier option without compromising on taste.
Ingredients
¾ cup (170 grams) salted butter, melted (1½ sticks)
2 cups (120 grams) crushed pretzels (about 4 cups before crushing)
3 tablespoons (4.5 grams) Stevia (or 38 grams granulated sugar)
8 ounces (227 grams) low-fat cream cheese
¾ cup (18 grams) Stevia (or 150 grams granulated sugar)
8 ounces (226 grams) sugar-free whipped topping
2 cups (454 grams) water
0.6 ounces (17 grams) sugar-free strawberry gelatin mix (2 packages)
14 ounces (397 grams) frozen strawberries, no sugar added
8 ounces (227 grams) crushed pineapple in 100% juice (1 can), drained
Sugar-free whipped topping (optional, for garnish)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
8 minutes
Total Time
6-8 hours (including chilling)
Yield
Approximately 12 servings
Enjoy making this delightful dessert that is sure to impress family and friends! The crispy pretzel crust contrasts beautifully with the creamy layer and fruity topping, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Pretzel Crust
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the melted butter, crushed pretzels, and 3 tablespoons Stevia (or sugar).
Step 3: Form the Crust in the Baking Dish
Pour the pretzel mixture into the prepared baking dish and press down firmly to create a flat, thin layer.
Step 4: Bake the Crust
Bake the crust for 7-8 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow it to fully cool.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
Using a hand mixer or stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat together the cream cheese and ¾ cup Stevia until smooth.
Step 6: Incorporate the Whipped Topping
Stir in the whipped topping until well combined.
Step 7: Spread the Cream Cheese Mixture
Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled pretzel crust, smoothing it into an even layer.
Step 8: Chill the Cream Cheese Layer
Place the dish in the refrigerator to chill for 30-60 minutes.
Step 9: Prepare the Strawberry Gelatin Mixture
In a small saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, turn off the heat and stir in the gelatin mix until fully dissolved. Allow the mixture to cool for 10 minutes.
Step 10: Add Fruit to the Gelatin
Stir in the frozen strawberries and drained crushed pineapple.
Step 11: Layer the Gelatin Mixture
Carefully pour the strawberry mixture over the cream cheese layer, ensuring it doesn’t mix into the creamy layer.
Step 12: Chill the Final Dish
Return the dish to the refrigerator and chill for 6-8 hours, or until the gelatin is fully set.
Step 13: Serve
Slice and serve with a dollop of whipped cream and sliced strawberries, if desired.
Notes
Ingredient Variations
You can use granulated sugar instead of Stevia if preferred for a sweeter taste.
Serving Suggestions
Adding sugar-free whipped topping and fresh strawberries enhances both the presentation and flavor of the dish.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cook techniques
Melt Butter
Melt salted butter by placing it in a microwave-safe bowl and heating in short intervals, stirring in between until fully melted.
Crush Pretzels
To crush pretzels, place them in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan to break them into small pieces before measuring.
Mix Ingredients
Combine melted butter, crushed pretzels, and Stevia (or sugar) in a bowl until evenly coated and mixed.
Press Crust
Press the pretzel mixture firmly into the bottom of a baking dish to create a stable crust, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
Bake Crust
Bake the crust in a preheated oven at 400°F for 7-8 minutes, then allow it to cool completely before adding layers.
Beat Cream Cheese
Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat cream cheese and Stevia until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
Fold in Whipped Topping
Gently fold the sugar-free whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture to maintain its light and airy texture.
Chill Layers
Refrigerate the cream cheese layer for 30-60 minutes to allow it to set properly before adding the gelatin mixture.
Dissolve Gelatin
Combine boiling water with the gelatin mix, stirring until fully dissolved, and let it cool slightly to prevent melting the cream cheese layer.
Combine Fruit
Mix frozen strawberries and drained crushed pineapple into the cooled gelatin, ensuring even distribution of fruit before layering.
Layer Ingredients
Carefully pour the fruit and gelatin mixture over the cream cheese layer, avoiding mixing it into the cream layer for a clear separation.
Set Gelatin
Chill the entire dish in the refrigerator for 6-8 hours until the gelatin is completely set and firm.
Slice and Serve
Cut the chilled dessert into squares for serving, optionally garnishing with additional whipped topping and sliced strawberries.
FAQ
Can I substitute the Stevia with regular sugar?
Yes, you can replace Stevia with granulated sugar in equal amounts for a sweeter taste.
What can I use instead of low-fat cream cheese?
You can use full-fat cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative if desired.
How do I know when the gelatin is set?
The gelatin should be firm and no longer jiggly when touched; it will hold its shape when sliced.
Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh strawberries, but you may need to adjust the amount to achieve the desired consistency.
How long can this dessert be stored in the refrigerator?
The dessert can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
This delightful dessert not only brings a satisfying crunch from the pretzel crust but also a refreshing sweetness from the strawberry and pineapple layers. Perfect for gatherings and warmer weather, it balances flavors and textures beautifully, offering a guilt-free indulgence.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Peach Crisp Delight
Combine the pretzel crust with a layer of cream cheese and top with peach pie filling and oats for a scrumptious twist.
Chocolate Raspberry Treat
Use a chocolate graham cracker crust topped with a layer of cream cheese and raspberry gelatin, finished with fresh raspberries.
Key Lime Dream Bars
Create a lime-flavored cream cheese layer over a pretzel crust topped with sugar-free lime gelatin and a sprinkle of lime zest.
Coconut Pineapple Refresher
Switch crushed pineapple for shredded coconut in the gelatin layer and incorporate toasted coconut flakes for added texture.
Mixed Berry Medley
Replace strawberries with a mix of blueberries and blackberries in the gelatin layer for an antioxidant-packed flavor explosion.
