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Strawberry Crackle Salad Recipe

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4.4 from 8 reviews

Strawberry Crackle Salad is a nostalgic American dessert featuring a crunchy pretzel and pecan topping baked to perfection, layered over a creamy sweetened cream cheese and cool whip mixture, and finished with vibrant fresh strawberries. This retro treat is perfect for parties and family gatherings, serving 10-12 people.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 10-12
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Crust and Topping

  • 2 cups crushed pretzels
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup butter, melted

Filling

  • 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 16 oz cool whip

Fruit

  • 4 cups sliced strawberries

Instructions

  1. Prepare Pretzel Mixture: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, combine crushed pretzels, chopped pecans, and brown sugar. Pour melted butter over the mixture and stir well until all ingredients are fully coated.
  2. Bake Pretzel Crust: Spread the pretzel mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the mixture is bubbly and golden. Remove from oven and let cool completely on the pan before breaking into small pieces.
  3. Make Cream Cheese Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the cool whip until the mixture is just combined to keep it light and fluffy.
  4. Refrigerate the Filling: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cream cheese mixture until ready to serve to let it set and chill thoroughly.
  5. Assemble and Serve: Just before serving, spread or spoon the chilled cream cheese mixture on a serving dish. Top with sliced strawberries and sprinkle the cooled pretzel crunch over the top. Optionally, fold some pretzel crunch into the cream mixture for added texture. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast of creamy, fruity, and crunchy elements.

Notes

  • Ensure the pretzel mixture is completely cooled before breaking to prevent sogginess.
  • Use fresh strawberries for best flavor and texture.
  • This dessert can be prepared ahead of time by making the pretzel topping and cream mixture separately, then assembling just before serving.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.
  • For a nut-free version, omit pecans and replace with additional pretzels or crushed graham crackers.

Find it online: https://allcookedup.com/strawberry-crackle-salad-recipe-2/