Refreshing Strawberry Pretzel Delight
Indulge in this light and dreamy Refreshing Strawberry Pretzel Delight that combines the salty crunch of pretzels with creamy layers and refreshing strawberry gelatin. This dessert is perfect for gatherings, offering a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will get everyone talking. The crunchy pretzel crust provides an irresistible base, while the cream cheese layer adds a velvety richness, all topped off with a fruity strawberry gelatin, making it a delightful treat for every occasion. Share this easy-to-make dessert and watch it become a new favorite!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
crushed pretzel
3/4 cup (crushed)
crushed graham cracker
3/4 cup (crushed)
Splenda granular
1/2 cup (divided evenly)
margarine
6 tablespoons (melted)
cream cheese
8 ounces (softened)
skim milk
2 tablespoons (none)
lite Cool Whip
1 cup (none)
water
2 cups (boiling)
sugar-free strawberry gelatin
1 (8 ounce) package (none)
cold water
1 1/2 cups (none)
Instructions
1
Preheat your kitchen with excitement as you prepare to create a delightful dessert.
2
In a medium bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, crushed graham crackers, 1/4 cup of Splenda, and melted margarine. Mix well until evenly coated.
3
Firmly press the mixture into the bottom of an 8x8-inch pan to create a solid crust. Set it aside to allow the flavors to meld.
4
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining 1/4 cup of Splenda and skim milk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
5
Gently fold in the lite Cool Whip until well combined. Spread this luscious cream cheese mixture evenly over the prepared crust, then place the pan in the freezer for 15 to 20 minutes to set.
6
In a separate bowl, dissolve the sugar-free strawberry gelatin in 2 cups of boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved. Mix in 1 1/2 cups of cold water and refrigerate for about 30 minutes, or until the gelatin starts to thicken slightly.
7
Once the cream cheese layer is set, carefully spoon the thickened strawberry gelatin over it. Return the dessert to the refrigerator and allow it to chill for at least an hour, or until the gelatin is completely set.
8
Slice into 20 squares and serve chilled for a refreshing treat!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Refreshing Strawberry Pretzel Delight?
It is a layered dessert featuring a salty pretzel and graham cracker crust, a creamy cream cheese filling, and a refreshing strawberry gelatin topping.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields 20 squares.
What type of pan should I use?
An 8x8-inch pan is recommended for this recipe.
Is this a low-calorie dessert?
Yes, it uses lite Cool Whip, sugar-free strawberry gelatin, Splenda, and skim milk to keep the calorie count lower than traditional versions.
Can I use butter instead of margarine?
Yes, melted butter can be substituted for margarine in the crust.
What is the purpose of the graham crackers in the crust?
The graham crackers are mixed with the crushed pretzels to provide a balanced flavor and a more cohesive crust structure.
How long should I freeze the cream cheese layer?
The cream cheese layer should be placed in the freezer for 15 to 20 minutes to set before adding the gelatin.
Can I use real sugar instead of Splenda?
Yes, you can substitute sugar for Splenda, though it will change the calorie and sugar content of the dessert.
How do I prevent the gelatin from mixing into the cream layer?
Ensure the cream cheese layer is partially frozen and wait until the gelatin has started to thicken slightly in the refrigerator before spooning it over the top.
Do I need to bake the crust?
The instructions specify pressing the mixture into the pan and setting it aside, making this a largely no-bake preparation.
What flavor of gelatin is used?
This recipe specifically calls for sugar-free strawberry gelatin.
How long does the final dessert need to chill?
It should chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour, or until the gelatin is completely set.
Can I use full-fat cream cheese?
Yes, full-fat cream cheese can be used for a richer flavor, though it will increase the fat content.
How do I crush the pretzels?
You can place the pretzels in a sealed plastic bag and use a rolling pin to crush them into small pieces.
Can I use a different fruit flavor?
Yes, you can swap strawberry gelatin for raspberry or orange if you prefer a different fruit profile.
Is skim milk necessary?
Skim milk is used to keep the recipe light, but any milk of your choice will work for the cream layer.
Can I add fresh strawberries to the gelatin?
Yes, adding sliced fresh strawberries to the gelatin layer before it sets can add extra texture and flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be covered and stored in the refrigerator to keep the gelatin and cream layers firm.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, this is an excellent make-ahead dessert as it needs time to chill and set in the refrigerator.
Why is the gelatin refrigerated for 30 minutes before being added?
This allows the gelatin to thicken slightly so it doesn't run through the cream layer or cause it to dissolve.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, standard pretzels and graham crackers contain gluten. You would need gluten-free substitutes for both to make it gluten-free.
How should I serve the dessert?
Slice the chilled dessert into squares and serve cold directly from the refrigerator.
What is lite Cool Whip?
It is a lower-fat version of whipped topping found in the freezer section of the grocery store.
How much water is needed for the gelatin?
You need 2 cups of boiling water to dissolve the gelatin and 1 1/2 cups of cold water to finish the mixture.
Can I use a food processor for the crust ingredients?
Yes, a food processor is a quick way to crush the pretzels and graham crackers to the desired consistency.
What if my crust is too crumbly?
Ensure you have pressed the mixture firmly into the pan and that the margarine is well-distributed to bind the crumbs.
Does the cream cheese need to be softened?
Yes, softening the cream cheese allows it to blend smoothly with the Splenda and milk without leaving lumps.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and use a 9x13-inch pan for a larger gathering.
Is the crust salty or sweet?
It is both! The pretzels provide saltiness while the graham crackers and Splenda add sweetness, creating a perfect balance.
Can I use a different sweetener?
Yes, any granular sweetener that measures like sugar can be used as a substitute for Splenda.