These No-Bake Raspberry Pretzel Cups are the perfect sweet and salty treat! With a crunchy pretzel crust, creamy filling, and fresh raspberries, they are super tasty.
Who knew that pretzels could be so delicious with cream cheese and berries? I love how easy they are to make—just mix, layer, and chill! Perfect for any sweet tooth.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pretzels: These bring a lovely crunch and salty flavor. If you want a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pretzels or even crushed nuts for a different twist.
Cream Cheese: This gives a creamy texture. Neufchâtel cheese can be a good substitute for lower fat. For dairy-free, try a vegan cream cheese made from cashews or coconut.
Fresh Raspberries: Raspberries are delicious and tart, but you can switch to other berries like blueberries or chopped strawberries if needed. Just keep the flavor balance in mind!
Heavy Whipping Cream: This adds richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use whipped coconut cream, which is a great alternative for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crush for the Pretzel Crust?
Getting the perfect pretzel crust is key to this dessert. The best way to crush pretzels is to place them in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin or your hands to crush them into fine crumbs. You want a mixture that holds together when pressed, so it’s important not to make it too fine.
- Mix equal parts crushed pretzels, melted butter, and powdered sugar.
- Press firmly into the bottom of your cups to create a sturdy base.
- If you like a little extra crunch, leave some pretzel pieces chunky to mix in!
How to Make No-Bake Raspberry Pretzel Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 2 cups pretzels, crushed (reserve some small pieces for garnish)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup powdered sugar
For the Raspberry Cream Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups fresh raspberries (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 30 minutes of prep time, plus at least 2 hours of chilling time in the refrigerator. So, you can whip these up in no time and let them chill while you relax or prepare for your gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pretzel Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix together the crushed pretzels, melted butter, and powdered sugar. Stir until the mixture is evenly moistened. Take about 2 tablespoons of this mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of each serving cup to create the crust. Make sure it’s compact so it holds together well. Set your cups aside.
2. Make the Raspberry Cream Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese using an electric mixer until it’s smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream along with the granulated sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined—this gives it a light and fluffy texture! Then, fold in the fresh raspberries, breaking a few to create a beautiful pink swirl in your filling.
3. Assemble the Cups:
Spoon or pipe the raspberry cream filling over the pretzel crust in each cup. Smooth the tops for a nice finish. You can use a piping bag if you want them to look extra pretty!
4. Topping with Raspberry Sauce and Garnish:
For a lovely finishing touch, you can make a raspberry sauce by pureeing a few more raspberries with a little sugar and drizzle it on top before you chill them. Then, add a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with whole raspberries and some of the reserved crushed pretzel pieces to make them even more tempting!
5. Chill and Serve:
Now, cover the cups and refrigerate them for at least 2 hours, or until they are set. Once they’ve chilled, serve them cold and enjoy the delightful mix of flavors and textures!
These No-Bake Raspberry Pretzel Cups are sure to impress with their sweet, tangy, and crunchy combination. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While raspberries are delicious, you can swap them out for other berries like strawberries, blueberries, or blackberries. Just ensure the fruits are fresh and ripe for the best flavor!
How Long Can I Store Leftover No-Bake Raspberry Pretzel Cups?
Leftover cups can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep them covered to prevent them from drying out or absorbing odors from the refrigerator.
Can I Make These Cups Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free pretzels or even crushed nuts as a substitute for the crust. Just make sure the other ingredients, especially cream cheese and whipped cream, are also labeled gluten-free to ensure they meet dietary needs.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Whipping Cream?
If you don’t have heavy whipping cream on hand, you can use a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or even a store-bought whipped topping. For best results, make sure they are chilled before whipping for a fluffy texture!
