This recipe is especially close to my heart because it reminds me of my grandmother. She always had a knack for creating simple, yet delicious dishes that brought everyone together. She would have absolutely loved this strawberry pecan pretzel salad. This version is my twist on some of her classic potluck recipes. What I love most about this strawberry pecan pretzel salad is that it’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory. I have always had a sweet tooth. I love how the salty pretzels provide a satisfying crunch that complements the sweetness of the strawberries and the creamy filling.

I know some folks get intimidated by the word “salad” when it involves pretzels and cream cheese, but trust me, this strawberry pecan pretzel salad is more of a dessert than anything else. My husband jokingly calls it a “healthy” dessert because it has fruit in it! My family always loves when I make this strawberry pecan pretzel salad. It’s the perfect dish to bring to potlucks, family gatherings, or even just a casual get-together with friends. I’ve even made it for school bake sales, and it always sells out within minutes! This strawberry pecan pretzel salad is so popular.

One of the things I love most about sharing recipes is hearing how they become part of your own family traditions. Maybe your kids will fight over the last pretzel crumb like mine do, or maybe you’ll discover a new ingredient that takes this strawberry pecan pretzel salad to the next level. That is one of the most important things I consider when making a new recipe! Either way, I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do.

So, grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s get started! I can’t wait for you to try this – it’s become such a staple in our house, and I know your family will love it just as much as mine does!

Ingredients for Strawberry Pecan Pretzel Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful strawberry pecan pretzel salad. Don’t worry; it’s mostly pantry staples and fresh ingredients that are easy to find.

2 cups crushed pretzels: I prefer using the small pretzel twists, but any kind of pretzel will work. Just make sure they’re crushed into small pieces, but not powder!

¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter, melted: This is important for the pretzel crust to hold together properly.
3 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the pretzel base.
8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Make sure it’s softened, or you’ll end up with lumps in your filling!

1 cup granulated sugar: This goes into the cream cheese layer, adding the perfect amount of sweetness.
12 ounces frozen whipped topping, thawed: This adds a light and airy texture to the filling.
1 (3 ounce) package strawberry gelatin: This is what gives the strawberry layer its flavor and beautiful color.

1 cup boiling water: To dissolve the gelatin.
2 cups ice water: This helps the gelatin set quickly.
4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced: The star of the show! Be sure to use ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor.

1 cup chopped pecans: These add a delicious crunch and nutty flavor that complements the strawberries perfectly. Make sure to check the pecan nutrition facts if you are curious!

One of my little secrets for this recipe is to use high-quality butter. It really makes a difference in the flavor of the pretzel crust. My kids love to help crush the pretzels, so it’s a fun activity to do together. If you’re short on time, you can also buy pre-crushed pretzels, but I think crushing them yourself gives them a better texture.

For the cream cheese, I always make sure it’s at room temperature. It blends much easier and creates a smoother filling. If you forget to take it out of the fridge ahead of time, you can microwave it for a few seconds, but be careful not to melt it! This is key for making strawberry pecan pretzel salad! Also, if you’re not a fan of pecans, you can substitute them with walnuts or almonds.

When it comes to the strawberries, I prefer using fresh ones. However, if they’re not in season, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid. Using the best strawberries makes all the difference in a strawberry pecan pretzel salad! One thing my mom taught me is that soaking the strawberries in cold water can keep them fresh for longer.

And that’s it! These are all the ingredients you’ll need to create this amazing strawberry pecan pretzel salad. Make sure you have everything ready before you start, and you’ll be enjoying this delicious treat in no time! I always buy extra strawberries because my kids love to snack on them while I’m cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for making this delectable strawberry pecan pretzel salad. Trust me, it’s easier than it looks! I promise this strawberry pecan pretzel salad will become one of your favorite recipes.

Preparing Strawberry Pecan Pretzel Salad

Prepare the Pretzel Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, melted butter, and 3 tablespoons of sugar. Mix well until all the pretzels are coated with butter and sugar. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Bake the Crust: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely. This step is crucial for creating a sturdy base for the strawberry pecan pretzel salad.
Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until well combined. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust.

Prepare the Strawberry Gelatin: In a separate bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved. Add 2 cups of ice water and stir well.
Add Strawberries and Pecans: Gently fold in the sliced strawberries and chopped pecans into the strawberry gelatin mixture. Pour the strawberry mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Chill: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the gelatin to set completely. The hardest part of this strawberry pecan pretzel salad is waiting!

Serve: Before serving, you can garnish with additional sliced strawberries and chopped pecans if desired. Cut into squares and enjoy! This is the most important step in the entire strawberry pecan pretzel salad recipe!

One thing I’ve learned over the years is that it’s important to let the pretzel crust cool completely before adding the cream cheese filling. Otherwise, the filling might melt and become runny. I made that mistake once, and it was a bit of a disaster! Also, if you’re short on time, you can skip the baking step for the pretzel crust, but I find that baking it gives it a nice, crispy texture.

When making the cream cheese filling, make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature. This will prevent lumps from forming and ensure a smooth, creamy filling. I also like to use a hand mixer to beat the cream cheese and sugar together. It just makes the process a little bit easier.

As for the strawberry gelatin, be sure to stir it well until the gelatin is completely dissolved in the boiling water. If there are any undissolved granules, they will affect the texture of the final product. My kids love to help with this step, but I always supervise them closely when they’re working with hot liquids. The key to a good strawberry pecan pretzel salad is patience!

And there you have it! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious strawberry pecan pretzel salad in no time. I guarantee it will be a hit with your family and friends! I always make a double batch because it disappears so quickly.

Serving Ideas

Now that you’ve made this amazing strawberry pecan pretzel salad, let’s talk about serving ideas. This dessert is so versatile, and there are endless ways to enjoy it!

In my family, we usually serve this strawberry pecan pretzel salad as a dessert after a barbecue or potluck. It’s the perfect refreshing treat on a hot summer day. I also like to bring it to family gatherings, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. One of my favorite things about this salad is that it can be made ahead of time, which is perfect for busy schedules.

For a more elegant presentation, you can serve the strawberry pecan pretzel salad in individual parfait glasses. Layer the pretzel crust, cream cheese filling, and strawberry mixture for a beautiful and delicious dessert. You can also garnish with additional sliced strawberries, chopped pecans, and a sprig of mint. My mom always taught me that presentation is key!

If you’re looking for a fun and festive treat for a holiday or special occasion, you can customize the strawberry mixture with different fruits and nuts. For example, you can add blueberries and raspberries for a patriotic Fourth of July dessert. Or, you can use cranberries and walnuts for a festive Christmas treat. The strawberry pecan pretzel salad is versatile.

Another fun idea is to serve this salad with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. The cold ice cream complements the sweetness of the strawberries and the saltiness of the pretzels perfectly. My kids always ask for extra whipped cream on top! If you do have some leftovers, the next-day strawberry pecan pretzel salad is just as tasty!

For a lighter option, you can use light cream cheese and sugar-free gelatin. This will reduce the calorie count without sacrificing flavor. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a healthier alternative. My sister is always looking for ways to make desserts healthier, so I’ve experimented with different substitutions over the years.

No matter how you choose to serve it, this strawberry pecan pretzel salad is sure to be a hit. It’s the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and creamy textures that everyone will love. I always get requests for the recipe whenever I bring it to a party! You can also serve it with a cup of coffee or tea for a relaxing afternoon treat.

So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy this delicious strawberry pecan pretzel salad with your family and friends! It’s a dessert that’s sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about making strawberry pecan pretzel salad. I’ve gathered these questions from my own experience and from questions I’ve received from friends and family over the years.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, I recommend making it at least 4 hours in advance, or even the day before, to allow the gelatin to set completely. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. This strawberry pecan pretzel salad is even better the next day!
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can, but make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before adding them to the gelatin mixture. Fresh strawberries will give you the best flavor and texture, but frozen strawberries will work in a pinch.

Can I substitute the pecans with other nuts?
Definitely! Walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts would be delicious in this salad. Feel free to experiment with your favorite nuts to create a unique flavor combination. It is so important to use the best ingredients when making strawberry pecan pretzel salad.
Can I use a different flavor of gelatin?
Of course! While strawberry gelatin is the most traditional choice, you can use other flavors like raspberry, cherry, or even lemon. Just make sure the flavor complements the fruit you’re using. It’s so easy to modify a strawberry pecan pretzel salad!
Can I make this salad without the pretzel crust?
Yes, you can, but the pretzel crust adds a delicious salty crunch that complements the sweetness of the strawberries and cream cheese filling. If you prefer, you can use a graham cracker crust instead.

How long will this salad last in the refrigerator?
This salad will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, but it’s best served fresh. The pretzel crust may become a little soggy over time, but it will still taste delicious.
Can I freeze this salad?
I don’t recommend freezing this salad, as the texture of the cream cheese filling and gelatin may change when thawed. It’s best to make it fresh and enjoy it within a few days.
What if my cream cheese filling is lumpy?
Make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before beating it with the sugar. If it’s still lumpy, you can try beating it with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth. The key to a good strawberry pecan pretzel salad is smooth filling!

Can I make this vegan?
To make this vegan, you would need to substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative, use a vegan cream cheese alternative, a vegan whipped topping, and a gelatin alternative like agar-agar or a vegan gelatin substitute. Ensure the pretzel and sugar you are using are also vegan-friendly.

I hope these FAQs have answered some of your questions about making strawberry pecan pretzel salad. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask in the comments below!

Conclusion

And there you have it – my family’s favorite strawberry pecan pretzel salad recipe! I hope you’ve enjoyed this journey through our kitchen and that you’re feeling inspired to try this recipe yourself.

This recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a memory, a tradition, and a way to bring people together. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of my grandmother’s love for simple, delicious food and the joy it brought to our family. It’s something I want to pass on to my own children.

Before you go, here are a few home cook tips I’ve learned over the years:

Always taste as you go. This will help you adjust the sweetness or tartness to your liking.
Don’t be afraid to experiment. Try different fruits, nuts, or gelatin flavors to create your own unique version of this salad.
Let it chill for at least 4 hours. This will ensure that the gelatin sets properly and the flavors meld together.

If you’re looking for more easy and delicious recipes, be sure to check out my other desserts! You can also view my strawberry pretzel salad recipe or strawberry pretzel bark recipe for more delicious recipes.

My family loves this dish in so many ways. My son loves extra pretzel crust. My daughter loves it with a whipped cream topping. No matter how you serve it, this strawberry pecan pretzel salad is a guaranteed winner! If you are looking for even more information, check out Strawberry Nutrition Facts and Pecan Nutrition Facts.

I truly believe that anyone can make this recipe, even if you’re a beginner cook. It’s all about following the instructions, using quality ingredients, and putting a little love into it. So don’t be intimidated – if I can make this on a busy weeknight, you absolutely can too! I love this simple strawberry pecan pretzel salad.

I’d love to hear how this turns out for your family – drop me a comment below and let me know what you think! And if you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to share them as well. I hope you enjoyed learning all about this strawberry pecan pretzel salad.

Happy cooking, and I hope this becomes as beloved in your kitchen as it is in mine!

Strawberry Pecan Pretzel Salad: A Family Favorite

Print Recipe

A sweet and savory dessert salad with layers of pretzel crust, creamy filling, and a strawberry-pecan topping.

Author: Kiera
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Dessert

Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups crushed pretzels

1 cup melted butter
1/2 cup sugar
8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1 cup sugar
12 ounces whipped topping
1 (6 ounce) package strawberry gelatin

2 cups boiling water
1 (16 ounce) package frozen strawberries, sliced
1/2 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Mix pretzels, butter, and 1/2 cup sugar together. Press into the bottom of a 9×13 inch pan. Bake for 10 minutes. Cool completely.
Beat cream cheese and 1 cup sugar together until smooth. Gently fold in whipped topping. Spread over cooled pretzel crust.

In a large bowl, dissolve strawberry gelatin in boiling water. Stir in frozen strawberries and pecans. Chill until slightly thickened.
Pour strawberry mixture over cream cheese layer. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.

Notes

For best results, let the pretzel crust cool completely before adding the cream cheese layer. You can substitute other fruits and nuts for the strawberries and pecans.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 350
Sugar: 30g

Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g

Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 40g

Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: strawberry, pretzel, salad, pecan, dessert