Strawberry Pretzel Salad

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## **Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Strawberry Pretzel Salad**

### **1️⃣ Prepare the Pretzel Crust**
– Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**.
– Crush the pretzels using a rolling pin or food processor until they’re finely chopped but still slightly chunky.
– In a mixing bowl, combine the **crushed pretzels, melted butter, and sugar**. Mix well.
– Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a **9×13-inch baking dish**.
– Bake for **8-10 minutes**, then remove and let it cool completely.

### **2️⃣ Make the Cream Cheese Layer**
– In a large bowl, beat the **cream cheese and sugar** together until smooth and creamy.
– Gently fold in the **whipped topping (Cool Whip)** until fully combined.
– Spread the mixture evenly over the **cooled pretzel crust**, making sure to seal the edges to prevent the gelatin from seeping through.
– Place in the refrigerator while you prepare the strawberry layer.

### **3️⃣ Prepare the Strawberry Topping**
– In a heatproof bowl, dissolve the **strawberry gelatin** in **boiling water**, stirring until fully dissolved.
– Allow the gelatin to cool slightly for **10-15 minutes**.
– Stir in the **sliced fresh strawberries**.

### **4️⃣ Assemble the Layers**
– Carefully pour the strawberry mixture over the cream cheese layer.
– Cover and refrigerate for **at least 4 hours** (or overnight) until the gelatin is fully set.

### **5️⃣ Serve and Enjoy!**
– Once fully chilled and set, slice into squares and serve.
– Enjoy the **sweet, creamy, and crunchy** goodness in every bite!

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## **Tips for the Best Strawberry Pretzel Salad**

✔ **Seal the edges of the cream cheese layer** – This prevents the Jell-O from soaking into the pretzel crust and making it soggy.
✔ **Use fresh strawberries** – They add a natural sweetness and better texture compared to frozen ones.
✔ **Make it ahead** – This dessert is even better when chilled overnight!
✔ **Experiment with different flavors** – Try raspberry Jell-O with raspberries or peach Jell-O with peaches for a fun twist!

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## **Why Strawberry Pretzel Salad is a Must-Try Dessert**

This **Strawberry Pretzel Salad** is a **nostalgic, crowd-pleasing dessert** that has stood the test of time. The combination of **buttery pretzel crust, sweet and creamy filling, and fruity strawberry topping** makes it one of the most satisfying treats you’ll ever try.

Whether you’re making it for a summer BBQ, a holiday feast, or just a special treat for your family, this dish is sure to be a hit. **Try it today and enjoy a perfect blend of sweet and salty flavors!** 🍓🥨💕