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Strawberry Crackle Salad Recipe

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4 from 15 reviews

Strawberry Crackle Salad is a nostalgic American dessert featuring a crunchy pretzel and pecan topping layered with a creamy, sweetened cream cheese and cool whip mixture, topped with fresh strawberries. This retro dessert offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors, perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.

  • 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

Topping

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

Filling

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

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate even baking.
  2. Prepare Pretzel Topping: In a medium-sized bowl, combine crushed pretzels, chopped pecans, and brown sugar. Pour melted butter over the mixture, stirring until everything is evenly coated.
  3. Bake Topping: Spread the pretzel mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the topping is bubbly and fragrant. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely on the pan. Once cooled, break it into small pieces for the salad.
  4. Make Cream Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the cool whip until well combined, taking care to maintain the lightness of the mixture. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
  5. Assemble Salad: When ready to serve, layer the cream cheese mixture in a serving dish. Top with sliced strawberries and sprinkle the cooled pretzel crunch over the top. For extra crunch, mix some pretzel pieces into the filling right before serving and garnish with additional topping if desired.

Notes

  • Ensure the pretzel topping is completely cooled before breaking; this prevents sogginess in the salad.
  • You can substitute chopped walnuts for pecans if preferred.
  • This salad is best served chilled and should be consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.
  • For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and light cool whip.
  • Make sure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.

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