This Creamy Raspberry Pretzel Dessert is a tasty mix of sweet and salty! The crunchy pretzel crust gives it a great base, while the smooth filling makes every bite creamy and delightful.
It’s a fun dessert to share at gatherings. I love pairing it with fresh raspberries on top for a pop of color. Trust me, your friends will be asking for the recipe! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crushed Pretzels: These give a salty crunch to balance the sweetness. You can use gluten-free pretzels if needed or even crushed crackers for a different flavor.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is used for sweetness. If you prefer, you can substitute with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative like Stevia, keeping in mind that sweetness levels may vary.
Unsalted Butter: This adds richness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute!
Cream Cheese: This is essential for the creamy layer. If you want a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or a plant-based cream cheese for a dairy-free version.
Whipped Topping: Cool Whip is a favorite for convenience. If you prefer homemade, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until it holds peaks. For non-dairy, look for coconut whipped cream.
Fresh Raspberries: These add freshness and flavor. You can substitute with other berries like strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries if raspberries aren’t available.
How Do I Get the Cream Cheese Smooth?
Mixing cream cheese can be tricky if it’s too cold. Make sure it’s softened but not melted. Here’s how to get it smooth:
- Take the cream cheese out of the fridge about 30 minutes before you start.
- Cut it into small chunks to help it soften faster.
- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed to whip it until it’s creamy and no lumps remain.
This ensures your dessert has a smooth and delightful layer, making every bite a pleasure!
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Dessert?
When it’s ready to serve, garnish with fresh raspberries and a dollop of whipped topping. Here are a few tips for a great presentation:
- Use a sharp knife to cut clean squares.
- Set aside a few raspberries for decoration on each piece.
- Consider using mint leaves for a pop of color!
This will not only look beautiful but also taste amazing and impress your guests!
How to Make Creamy Raspberry Pretzel Dessert
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 2 cups crushed pretzels (about 5 oz)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Creamy Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip), divided
- 2 cups fresh raspberries, divided
For the Raspberry Gelatin Layer:
- 1 (3 oz) package raspberry-flavored gelatin (Jell-O)
- 1 cup boiling water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert will take about 20 minutes to prepare. After that, you’ll need to refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow it to set properly. So, grab your apron, and get ready to enjoy a sweet treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix the crushed pretzels, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir until everything is evenly moistened.
2. Bake Crust:
Press the pretzel mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes. When it’s golden and fragrant, take it out and let it cool completely.
3. Make the Creamy Layer:
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until it’s smooth and creamy. Then, add 1 cup of whipped topping and gently fold everything together until well combined.
4. Add Raspberries to Creamy Layer:
Gently fold in 1 cup of fresh raspberries into the cream cheese mixture. This will give your creaminess a lovely fruity flavor!
5. Assemble First Layers:
Spread the creamy raspberry mix evenly over the cooled pretzel crust. It’s a beautiful blend of textures! Place it in the fridge while you work on the next layer.
6. Prepare Raspberry Gelatin:
In a heatproof bowl, dissolve the raspberry gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir well until it’s completely dissolved. Let it cool down to room temperature but be sure not to let it set!
7. Add Remaining Whipped Topping:
Once the gelatin is cool, carefully fold in the remaining 1 cup of whipped topping. This will help create a creamy gelatin layer for your dessert.
8. Top Dessert:
Gently pour the gelatin-whipped topping mixture over the creamy layer in your baking dish, spreading it evenly.
9. Chill and Set:
Now, it’s time to refrigerate! Let the dessert chill for at least 4 hours, but if you can wait overnight, that’s even better!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Before you serve, top your dessert with the remaining fresh raspberries and optional dollops of whipped topping. It’s ready for everyone to enjoy!
Enjoy this sweet-tart, crunchy, and creamy raspberry pretzel delight! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Can I Use Sugar Alternatives in This Recipe?
Yes! You can use sugar alternatives like Stevia or monk fruit sweetener in place of granulated and powdered sugar. Just remember to adjust the quantity according to the sweetener’s conversion chart, as some are much sweeter than regular sugar!
Can I Make This Dessert in a Different Dish Size?
Absolutely! If you use a larger or smaller dish, just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the baking time for the crust and the setting time for the layers. Monitor closely to achieve the perfect consistency!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed cold, so just chill it before serving again!
Can I Use a Different Flavor of Gelatin?
Of course! Feel free to get creative with different flavors of gelatin, such as strawberry or blueberry. Just make sure that the flavors complement the other ingredients!
