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Classic Strawberry Pretzel Salad Bars Recipe

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4.7 from 106 reviews

Classic Strawberry Pretzel Salad Bars combine a crunchy, salty pretzel crust with a creamy, sweet cream cheese layer and a fresh, fruity strawberry topping. This easy no-bake dessert is perfect for summer gatherings or anytime you crave a delightful balance of sweet and salty flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 2 cups pretzels, finely crushed
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Cream Cheese Layer

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, whipped to soft peaks

Strawberry Topping

  • 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup water

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Finely crush 2 cups of pretzels using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed bag and crushing with a rolling pin.
  2. Mix Crust Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, and 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  3. Form Crust: Press the pretzel mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, compacting it using the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass.
  4. Bake Crust: Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
  5. Prepare Cream Cheese Layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened 8 ounces of cream cheese with 1 cup powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  6. Fold in Whipped Cream: In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to create a light, creamy filling.
  7. Assemble Cream Cheese Layer: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust. Place the pan in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the strawberry topping.
  8. Make Strawberry Topping: In a medium saucepan, combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and 1/2 cup water. Stir well and bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes translucent.
  9. Add Strawberries: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in 4 cups of sliced fresh strawberries. Let the mixture cool slightly.
  10. Top Bars: Spread the slightly cooled strawberry topping evenly over the cream cheese layer.
  11. Chill Bars: Refrigerate the entire pan for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set properly.
  12. Serve: Cut into bars using a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean cuts. Serve chilled and enjoy your sweet and salty treat.

Notes

  • For best results, use fresh, ripe strawberries to maximize flavor and color.
  • Press the pretzel crust firmly to prevent it from crumbling when serving.
  • Ensure the cream cheese is softened well to avoid lumps in the cream layer.
  • Chilling the dessert overnight intensifies the flavors and improves texture.
  • Keep the bars refrigerated until serving to maintain freshness and firm texture.
  • Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for cleaner cuts between servings.

Keywords: Strawberry Pretzel Salad Bars, Pretzel crust dessert, Cream cheese strawberry bars, Sweet and salty dessert, Easy summer dessert

Find it online: https://dylangranv.com/classic-strawberry-pretzel-salad-bars-recipe/