Description
Pineapple Pretzel Salad is a delightful layered dessert featuring a crunchy, salty pretzel crust, a creamy sweetened cream cheese and whipped topping layer, and a juicy pineapple topping. Perfect for summer potlucks and gatherings, this recipe combines sweet, salty, and tangy flavors for a refreshing treat that requires minimal baking and easy assembly.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups crushed pretzels
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
Filling
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Topping
- 1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, well drained
- Extra crushed pretzels or pineapple tidbits for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Pretzel Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, melted butter, and 3 tablespoons of sugar until fully mixed. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the pretzel crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. After baking, remove from the oven and allow the crust to cool completely to set.
- Make Cream Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Fold in the whipped topping gently until fully incorporated.
- Assemble the Layers: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust. Be sure to seal the edges well to prevent the topping from seeping through the crust.
- Add Pineapple Layer: Evenly spread the well-drained crushed pineapple over the cream cheese layer, making sure to cover it entirely.
- Chill and Garnish: Cover the dish and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the layers to set. Before serving, optionally garnish with extra crushed pretzels or pineapple bits for added texture and decoration.
Notes
- Ensure the pineapple is thoroughly drained to avoid a soggy top layer.
- You can prepare this dessert a day in advance to enhance the flavors.
- For a tropical twist, add shredded coconut or a splash of coconut extract to the cream cheese layer.