This Raspberry Pretzel Dessert is a fun mix of salty and sweet! With a crunchy pretzel crust topped with creamy layers of whipped topping and tart raspberry filling, it’s totally delicious.
You’ll love how easy it is to make this treat. Plus, who can resist a dessert that gives you the best of both worlds—salty pretzels and fresh raspberries? It’s a win-win! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pretzels: The star of this dessert! I recommend using regular pretzels for that perfect salty crunch. If gluten-free, you can easily swap in gluten-free pretzels or even crushed nuts for a different texture.
Granulated sugar: It adds sweetness to the crust and cream cheese layer. For a healthier option, you could use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute, but keep in mind it may alter the flavor a bit.
Cream cheese: This gives the dessert its creamy texture. You can use low-fat cream cheese, or even Greek yogurt for a lighter version—just know it will change the taste slightly!
Whipped topping: I love using Cool Whip for its light texture. If you prefer a natural option, homemade whipped cream works well instead—just add sugar to taste.
Raspberry gelatin: The gelatin layer is where the fruit flavor shines. You can substitute with strawberry or cherry gelatin if raspberries aren’t your favorite!
What’s the Best Way to Prepare Pretzel Crust?
Getting that pretzel crust just right is crucial for the balance of flavors. First, I always crush the pretzels into small pieces but not too fine—a bit of texture is nice! It’s also important to mix them thoroughly with melted butter and sugar to ensure it sticks together.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your baking dish to create a solid foundation. Use the bottom of a cup to really pack it down.
- Don’t skip the baking step! This helps set the crust and adds a bit of crunch. Let it cool completely before adding the next layers, or the cream cheese layer may melt into the crust.
How to Make Raspberry Pretzel Dessert
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 2 cups crushed pretzels (about 6 ounces)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip), divided
For the Raspberry Layer:
- 2 (3 oz) packages raspberry gelatin (Jello)
- 2 cups boiling water
- 2 cups cold water
For Garnishing (Optional):
- Fresh pretzels or raspberries
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert will take about 30 minutes of active prep time, plus 4 hours to chill in the refrigerator. So, set aside some time to make it and then let it set while you relax!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature to get that crust just right.
2. Prepare the Crust:
In a medium bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and the melted butter. Mix everything together until well combined. Then, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will create your salty, crunchy pretzel crust. Bake it for 10 minutes and let it cool completely on the counter.
3. Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
While the crust is cooling, grab a large mixing bowl and beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. Fold in 1 cup of whipped topping until it’s all well mixed. Spread this cream cheese layer evenly over the cooled pretzel crust—this will be the creamy part of your dessert!
4. Prepare the Raspberry Layer:
In a separate bowl, dissolve the raspberry gelatin in 2 cups of boiling water. Stir it well until fully dissolved. Then, add 2 cups of cold water to the gelatin mixture and stir again. Gently fold in the remaining 1 cup of whipped topping into the gelatin mixture—this adds a lovely fluffy texture!
5. Assemble and Chill:
Now, pour the raspberry gelatin mixture over the cream cheese layer, spreading it out evenly. Pop the dessert into the fridge for at least 4 hours to let everything set up nicely. This is a great time to clean up the kitchen or kick back and relax!
6. Garnish and Serve:
When you’re ready to serve, you can garnish with fresh pretzels or raspberries on top for an extra touch of flavor and decoration. Slice, serve, and enjoy the sweet-tart, crunchy goodness of your Raspberry Pretzel Dessert!
It’s a fantastic treat that’s sure to impress at your next gathering!
Can I Use Different Flavors of Gelatin?
Absolutely! While raspberry is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other flavors like strawberry or cherry. Just keep in mind that the taste of your dessert will change slightly!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The layers will stay fresh and delicious, but the pretzel crust may soften over time.
Can I Make This Dessert Gluten-Free?
Yes, simply substitute regular pretzels with gluten-free pretzels or crushed nuts. This will help maintain the crunch while ensuring everyone can enjoy the dessert!
How Do I Make It Ahead of Time?
This dessert is perfect for making ahead! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to serve for optimal freshness and flavor.