Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?

Absolutely! In summer, I swap in 2 cups chopped fresh berries - just know your Jell-O layer will be slightly less firm. The frozen ones release more juice that helps the gelatin set.

How long until it's fully set?

Plan for at least 4 hours in the fridge, but overnight is ideal. The cream layer needs time to firm up so the Jell-O doesn't sink in. If you're in a rush, pop it in the freezer for 1 hour first.

Why did my layers mix together?

Two culprits: pouring warm Jell-O over the cream layer (let it thicken first!) or skipping the crust cooling step. Patience is key with this strawberry pretzel dessert

Can I make individual portions?

Yes! Use clear plastic cups for a cute presentation. Just reduce the crust bake time to 8 minutes since the layers are shallower.

What's the best way to crush pretzels?

I use a zip-top bag and rolling pin for control - you want a mix of fine crumbs and small chunks. Avoid the food processor unless you like powdery crust!

Irresistible Strawberry Pretzel Salad Recipe You'll Crave

Strawberry Pretzel Salad

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A nostalgic layered dessert with a salty pretzel crust, creamy filling, and sweet strawberry Jell-O topping. Perfect for summer potlucks and 4th of July gatherings.

Author: Sophia Collins
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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2 cups crushed pretzels
3/4 cup melted butter
3 tbsp sugar
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sugar
8 oz whipped topping
6 oz strawberry Jell-O
2 cups boiling water
16 oz frozen strawberries

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix crushed pretzels, melted butter, and 3 tbsp sugar. Press into a 9×13 pan and bake for 10 minutes. Let cool.
Beat cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth. Fold in whipped topping. Spread over cooled crust.
Dissolve Jell-O in boiling water. Stir in frozen strawberries. Let thicken slightly before pouring over cream layer.
Refrigerate at least 4 hours or until set. Cut into squares and serve chilled.

Notes

Use fresh strawberries in summer for brighter flavor
Substitute raspberry Jell-O for variation
Keep refrigerated until serving

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 square
Calories: 320
Sugar: 28g
Sodium: 380mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 45mg

Find it online: https://kitchenuser.net/strawberry-pretzel-salad-recipe/