Strawberry Pretzel Jello Salad

[rank_math_breadcrumb]

This dessert has a special place in my heart. It’s one of those dishes that always made an appearance at family gatherings when I was growing up.

Strawberry pretzel jello salad was a favorite at potlucks, picnics, and summer barbecues.

The combination of salty pretzels, creamy filling, and fruity strawberry topping is the perfect mix of textures and flavors.

It’s the kind of recipe that brings back memories of warm days and laughter around the table.

Plus, since it’s technically a “salad,” no one will judge you for going back for seconds—or thirds! This dish is easy to make, loved by everyone, and always disappears quickly.

Table of Contents

Strawberry Pretzel Jello Salad Recipe

Ingredients

For The Crust

2 cups crushed pretzels (use plain, unsalted pretzels)
1/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup melted butter

For The Creamy Layer

12 oz cream cheese, softened (about 1 1/2 packages)
2 tablespoons milk (use almond or coconut milk for dairy-free)
1 cup whipped topping (choose dairy-free if needed)

For The Strawberry Layer

2 cups boiling water
1 box (6 oz) strawberry-flavored gelatin (use agar-agar for vegetarian/vegan)
1 1/2 cups cold water
4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

Instructions

Make The Pretzel Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix the crushed pretzels, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl.
Press this mixture into the bottom of a 13×9-inch pan to form a firm crust.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, then let it cool completely.

Prepare The Creamy Layer

Beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and milk in a bowl until smooth.
Fold in the whipped topping gently until well blended.
Spread this over the cooled crust, making sure to cover it fully to prevent the next layer from seeping through.
Chill in the fridge while you prepare the strawberry layer.

Make The Strawberry Layer

Stir the strawberry gelatin into boiling water until it dissolves completely.
Add the cold water and let it cool to room temperature.
Once the mixture thickens slightly (after about 1–1.5 hours in the fridge), stir in the sliced strawberries.

Assemble The Salad & Serve

Pour the strawberry mixture evenly over the creamy layer.
Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or until fully set.
Slice and serve chilled.

Tips For Making Strawberry Pretzel Jello Salad

Here are some helpful tips to make sure your strawberry pretzel jello salad turns out just right:

Crush Pretzels Evenly: Use a food processor or seal the pretzels in a plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin. Aim for small, even crumbs, but avoid turning them into a fine powder.
Cool the Crust: Make sure the pretzel crust is completely cool before adding the creamy layer to prevent it from melting.
Seal the Creamy Layer: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly and completely to the edges to act as a barrier between the crust and the jello. This keeps the crust from getting soggy.
Chill the Jello Properly: Allow the jello mixture to thicken slightly before adding it to the creamy layer. Pouring it while too liquid can ruin the layers.
Fresh Strawberries are Best: Fresh strawberries give the dessert a vibrant taste and texture, but if you use frozen, thaw and drain them thoroughly.

What To Serve With Strawberry Pretzel Jello Salad?

Pair this sweet and salty treat with these dishes for a well-rounded meal:

Fried chicken
BBQ ribs
Grilled burgers
Potato salad
Macaroni and cheese
Baked beans
Cornbread
Deviled eggs

How To Store Strawberry Pretzel Jello Salad?

Proper storage is key to keeping the dessert fresh and delicious:

Refrigerate: Cover the salad tightly with plastic wrap or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Do Not Freeze: Freezing the salad isn’t recommended as the jello and creamy layer will lose their texture once thawed.
Keep it Covered: Always keep the salad covered to prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods in the fridge.

Can You Make Strawberry Pretzel Salad Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can absolutely make strawberry pretzel salad ahead of time, which makes it perfect for gatherings or busy days. Here are some tips to help you prepare it in advance:

Make It the Day Before: Preparing the salad a day ahead allows all the layers to set properly and gives the flavors time to meld together.
Keep It Covered: After assembling the salad, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh in the fridge.
Wait to Add Strawberries (Optional): If you want the strawberries to stay extra fresh and vibrant, add them to the top layer just before serving.

How Many Calories Are In Strawberry Pretzel Salad?

The calorie count for strawberry pretzel salad can vary depending on the ingredients and portion size. On average, a serving (about 1/12 of a 13×9-inch pan) contains: