jello and pretzel dessert recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
jello and pretzel dessert recipe
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The Best jello and pretzel dessert recipe

I’ve been making this jello and pretzel dessert for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends. The combination of the sweet and tangy flavors is just perfect.

I love how the crunch of the pretzels complements the texture of the jello. It’s a simple yet elegant dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

My kids love helping me make it, and they’re always excited to see the finished product. As a bonus, it’s a relatively healthy dessert option, made with low-fat milk and sugar-free jello.

I’ve even served it at potlucks and gatherings, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. The best part is that it’s so easy to make ahead of time – just chill it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

It’s a great make-ahead dessert for busy families or hosts who want to impress their guests without too much fuss. I’ve experimented with different flavors and colors over the years, but the classic combination remains my favorite.

It’s a true classic that never goes out of style.

Jello and Pretzel Dessert

Jello and Pretzel Dessert

4.7 from 1824 votes

A sweet and salty layered dessert with a crunchy pretzel crust, a creamy center, and a vibrant jello topping. This no-bake treat is perfect for potlucks and summer gatherings.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time10 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time4 hours 30 mins
Servings: 12Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Crust

2 cups crushed pretzels
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cream Cheese Layer

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
8 ounces frozen whipped topping, thawed

For the Jello Layer

6 ounces strawberry jello mix
2 cups boiling water
2 cups cold water
1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2In a medium bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, 3 tablespoons of sugar, and melted butter.
3Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4Bake the crust for 10 minutes, until it is lightly browned and fragrant.
5Remove from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
6In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
7Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until fully incorporated.
8Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust, making sure to seal the edges to prevent the jello from seeping through.
9Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set.
10In a separate bowl, dissolve the strawberry jello mix in 2 cups of boiling water, stirring for 2 minutes until completely dissolved.
11Add 2 cups of cold water and stir.
12Refrigerate the jello mixture for 1 hour, until it is slightly thickened but not set.
13Arrange the sliced strawberries evenly over the chilled cream cheese layer.
14Gently pour the thickened jello over the strawberries, covering them completely.
15Refrigerate the dessert for at least 3 hours, or until the jello is fully set and firm to the touch.
16Cut into squares and serve chilled.

🔧Equipment

9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 11g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 380mg🌾Total Carbs: 36g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 28g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

Tips: Use salted pretzels for a better sweet and salty contrast. For a firmer crust, chill it after baking. You can substitute other jello flavors like raspberry or lime, and use corresponding fresh fruits. Keep the dessert refrigerated until serving.

Watch Video Of How Jello and Pretzel Dessert Works

This jello and pretzel dessert is always a good idea for any occasion, whether it is a summer barbecue, a holiday dinner, or just a casual weeknight treat. It is easy to make, looks impressive, and tastes delicious.

I love that I can make it ahead of time and it still tastes perfect the next day. When you have leftovers, just keep them in the fridge and they will stay fresh for a couple of days.

You can serve it straight from the pan, or cut it into squares for a cleaner presentation. If you want to get fancy, add a dollop of whipped cream on top.

This recipe is a crowd pleaser and I am sure your family will love it just as much as mine does.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Jello and Pretzel Dessert

Q: What kind of pretzels should I use?

I like to use thin, salted pretzels for this recipe. You can also use unsalted or whole-wheat pretzels if you prefer.

Q: Can I use different flavors of jello?

Yes, you can experiment with different flavors like strawberry, orange, or lemon to change up the taste.

Q: Do I need to refrigerate the dessert after it’s set?

Yes, it’s best to keep the dessert chilled in the fridge until serving.

Q: Can I serve this dessert at room temperature?

No, it’s best to serve this dessert chilled, as it will help retain its texture.

Q: Can I make this dessert in advance?

Yes, you can make this dessert up to 24 hours in advance. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge until serving.

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