Strawberry Pretzel Salad Without Cool Whip

Name: Strawberry Pretzel Salad Without Cool Whip
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups pretzel sticks or twists (approximately 130 grams); 11 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (approximately 160 grams); 3 tablespoons granulated sugar (approximately 38 grams); 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream (approximately 354 ml); 1 cup granulated sugar (approximately 200 grams); ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 6 ounces strawberry Jell-O; 2 cups boiling water (approximately 473 ml); 3 cups fresh strawberries, washed and sliced

By:

dani

Published:

October 10, 2025

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Strawberry Pretzel Salad Without Cool Whip is not only a delicious dessert but also a nostalgic favorite that many of us grew up enjoying. It’s that perfect blend of salty and sweet, featuring a crunchy pretzel crust, a creamy layer of sweetened cream cheese, and a fresh strawberry topping that simply sings of summer. Making it from scratch, without Cool Whip, lets you highlight the homemade charm and rich flavors that elevate this dish. Whether you’re bringing it to a picnic, a barbecue, or just enjoying a sweet treat at home, this recipe is sure to impress both friends and family. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert you can enjoy on warmer days. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started on this delightful dish!

Why This Recipe Works

Balancing sweet and salty flavors perfectly is key to making this Strawberry Pretzel Salad Without Cool Whip stand out. The salty pretzel crust sets the stage for an explosion of sweetness in the creamy filling and tart strawberry topping. Fresh ingredients elevate the taste, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor. Forgoing the Cool Whip makes way for homemade whipped cream, giving the dish a rich creaminess that pre-packaged products simply can’t match.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Pretzel Salad Without Cool Whip

What’s not to love about this dessert? Not only is it a delightful treat that will impress guests, but it’s also surprisingly easy to whip up. With a quick prep time, you’ll have it ready to chill while you enjoy your day. It’s perfect for summer picnics, family gatherings, or even just a fun night in. This Strawberry Pretzel Salad Without Cool Whip does all the heavy lifting, allowing you to sit back, relax, and savor every delicious moment.

Ingredients

3 cups pretzel sticks or twists (approximately 130 grams)
11 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (approximately 160 grams)
3 tablespoons granulated sugar (approximately 38 grams)
1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream (approximately 354 ml)
1 cup granulated sugar (approximately 200 grams)
¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
6 ounces strawberry Jell-O
2 cups boiling water (approximately 473 ml)
3 cups fresh strawberries, washed and sliced

Making the Pretzel Crust

Prepare the Oven and Pretzels

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, place the pretzels in a large Ziploc bag and crush them into chunks. Aim for pieces smaller than an inch for a perfectly textured crust.

Mix Pretzel Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the crushed pretzels with the melted butter and 3 tablespoons of sugar. Mix these to ensure every pretzel piece is coated.

Bake the Crust

After mixing, pour the pretzel mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Press it gently into the bottom so it holds together. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remember to set it aside to cool completely.

Creating the Whipped Cream Filling

Whip the Cream

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of heavy whipping cream and ¼ teaspoon of cream of tartar. Start whipping on medium speed until it begins thickening. Then, turn it up to high speed until you see stiff peaks form. This fluffy wonder will be the heart of our dessert.

Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In another bowl, beat together 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture turns smooth. Take a moment to appreciate that creamy goodness.

Combine Mixtures

Now, gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Take your time here; you want everything well combined without deflating the whipped cream too much.

Layer the Filling

Spread this delightful cream cheese mixture over the cooled pretzel crust, making sure to press it against the edges to create a nice seal. This will help keep the layers distinct and beautiful.

Making the Jell-O Topping

Dissolve the Jell-O

In a bowl, combine 6 ounces of strawberry Jell-O with 2 cups of boiling water, stirring until the granules completely dissolve. That vibrant pink color is a sure sign of the fruity topping to come!

Prepare Strawberry Mixture

Now, let’s refrigerate the Jell-O until it thickens to about the consistency of egg whites, which takes roughly 45-60 minutes. Once thickened, fold in the 3 cups of sliced strawberries. This adds a fresh, fruity dimension to your dessert.

Assemble the Dessert

Carefully pour the strawberry mixture over the cream cheese layer. Spread it evenly. Once done, refrigerate for 2-4 hours until it’s nicely set. This wait will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

When it’s time to serve, slice the dessert into squares and plate them up. It tastes incredible chilled, so keep it that way for a refreshing treat. For an extra touch, pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a garnish of fresh mint. Your guests will love the extra sophistication!

Tips for Success

Be sure to allow the crust to cool completely. This avoids a soggy base that no one wants.
Thoroughly mix the Jell-O so that the flavor is evenly distributed throughout.

Variations

Feel free to get creative! You can substitute the strawberry Jell-O with raspberry or blueberry flavors for a different palate experience. If gluten is a concern, crushed graham crackers can work well instead of pretzels, offering a delightful alternative.

Storage Tips

If there are any leftovers (although I doubt it!), store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover them tightly to maintain freshness.

FAQs

1. Can I use sugar-free Jell-O for this recipe?
Yes, sugar-free Jell-O can be used without affecting the overall outcome.

2. How long can I make this salad in advance?
Prepare the salad up to one day in advance for the best flavor and freshness.

3. Can I add other fruits to this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with blueberries, kiwi, or even banana slices for added variety.

4. Is it possible to freeze this dessert?
Freezing is not recommended, as it can change the texture of the whipped cream and Jell-O.

5. What’s the best way to cut and serve this salad?
Use a sharp knife to cut into squares, and serve directly from the dish for an easy yet appealing presentation.

This Strawberry Pretzel Salad Without Cool Whip is a fun, delicious dessert that combines the salty crust, creamy filling, and fresh strawberry topping to perfection. Perfect for any occasion, it brings people together for a refreshing finish to a meal. Enjoy this nostalgic treat and feel free to infuse your own twists to make it uniquely yours!