This Strawberry Pretzel Salad is a timeless dessert that always steals the show! With a nutty crust, a creamy cheesecake-style layer, and a refreshing strawberry topping, every bite offers the perfect mix of crunch, sweetness, and fruitiness.
✨ Smart Tip: For the best results, let the strawberry Jell-O mixture start to thicken slightly before pouring it over the cream cheese layer. This prevents the liquid from seeping into the bottom and keeps your layers neat and firm.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 Tbsp Swerve brown sugar substitute
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
For the Creamy Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup Swerve confectioners sugar substitute
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1–2 cups sliced strawberries
For the Gelatin Topping
- 4 cups hot water
- ¼ cup Swerve confectioners sugar substitute
- 1–2 tsp strawberry flavoring (to taste)
- 2 Tbsp unflavored gelatin
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Crust
- Pulse pecans in a food processor or blender until coarsely ground.
- Mix with melted butter, brown sugar substitute, and vanilla.
- Press the mixture evenly into a greased 9×9 baking dish.
2. Prepare the Creamy Filling
- In a bowl, beat cream cheese with the confectioners sugar substitute until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined.
- Spread evenly over the pecan crust.
- Arrange sliced strawberries in a single layer on top.
- Freeze for 30 minutes to help the cream layer set.
3. Make the Gelatin Topping
- Whisk together hot water, sweetener, strawberry flavoring, gelatin, and vanilla until dissolved.
- Let the mixture cool slightly until it begins to thicken.
- Pour gently over the cream cheese and strawberry layer.
4. Chill & Serve
- Refrigerate until the gelatin layer is completely set.
- Slice, serve, and enjoy this refreshing layered dessert!
Tips for Success
- Set the Cream Layer: Freezing for 30 minutes helps keep the strawberry topping from sinking in.
- Add Texture: Swap pecans for crushed pretzels if you want the traditional salty-sweet combo.
- Make Ahead: Prepare a day in advance and chill overnight for stress-free entertaining.
- Extra Garnish: Add fresh whipped cream or extra strawberry slices before serving.
This Strawberry Pretzel Salad is the perfect mix of creamy, fruity, and crunchy layers that never fail to please. Whether you’re taking it to a potluck, serving at a holiday table, or making it just because, it’s guaranteed to disappear fast! 🍓
