Strawberry Pretzel Dessert Bars (Printable)

Sweet and salty layers create the perfect gathering dessert.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pretzel Crust

01 - 2 cups salted pretzels, crushed
02 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
03 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar

→ Cream Cheese Layer

04 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
05 - 1 cup granulated sugar
06 - 1 (8 oz ) container whipped topping such as Cool Whip, thawed

→ Strawberry Topping

07 - 1 (6 oz ) package strawberry-flavored gelatin Jell-O
08 - 2 cups boiling water
09 - 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

# How To Make It:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F 175°C.
02 - Combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar in a bowl. Press firmly into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch 23x33 cm baking dish.
03 - Bake the crust for 10 minutes. Let cool completely.
04 - In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth and creamy. Fold in the whipped topping.
05 - Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust, making sure to seal the edges so the gelatin layer won’t seep through.
06 - Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
07 - Dissolve strawberry gelatin in 2 cups boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved, then set aside to cool to room temperature do not let it set.
08 - Arrange sliced strawberries evenly over the cream cheese layer.
09 - Gently pour the cooled gelatin over the strawberries.
10 - Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the gelatin is set.
11 - Slice into bars and serve chilled.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The perfect balance of sweet and salty from the pretzel crust and creamy filling.
  • Easy to make with simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
  • A refreshing, no-bake strawberry topping that’s fruity and vibrant.
  • Ideal for summer events, potlucks, and family gatherings.
02 -
  • Use room temperature cream cheese for smoother mixing and no lumps.
  • Seal the cream cheese layer edges well to prevent gelatin seepage and maintain crispness.
  • Ensure the gelatin mixture is cooled to room temperature before pouring to avoid melting the whipped topping.
  • Chill the dessert thoroughly for at least 2 hours to guarantee a firm set before slicing.
Go back