This Strawberry Pretzel Salad is the perfect mix of crunchy, creamy, and fruity. With a nutty pecan crust, a smooth cream cheese whipped layer, and a refreshing strawberry gelatin topping, this no-bake dessert always steals the show. It’s light, refreshing, and ideal for summer cookouts, family gatherings, or holiday potlucks.
Description
Don’t let the name fool you—this isn’t a savory salad! Instead, it’s a layered dessert that brings together sweet, tangy, and crunchy textures. The buttery pecan crust is topped with a luscious cream cheese and whipped cream layer, then finished with fresh strawberries and a homemade strawberry gelatin topping. Every bite is pure delight.
Who Is This Recipe For?
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Anyone who loves layered desserts with contrasting textures.
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Families looking for an easy make-ahead dish for gatherings.
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People following a low-sugar or keto-friendly lifestyle (thanks to sugar substitutes).
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Strawberry lovers who want a refreshing treat!
Why You’ll Love It
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✅ Crowd-pleaser – always the first dish to disappear.
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✅ No baking required – perfect for warm weather.
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✅ Customizable – swap strawberries for raspberries, blueberries, or peaches.
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✅ Low-sugar friendly – made with Swerve for a guilt-free twist.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
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2 cups pecan halves
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4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
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3 tbsp Swerve brown sugar substitute
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½ tsp vanilla extract
For the Whipped Layer:
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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½ cup Swerve confectioners sugar substitute
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1 cup heavy whipping cream
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1–2 cups sliced strawberries
For the Gelatin Topping:
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4 cups hot water
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¼ cup Swerve confectioners sugar substitute
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1–2 tsp strawberry flavoring (to taste)
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2 tbsp unflavored gelatin
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½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1 – Make the Crust
Grind pecans into a coarse meal using a blender or food processor. Mix with melted butter, Swerve brown sugar substitute, and vanilla. Press evenly into a greased 9×9 baking dish.
Step 2 – Prepare the Whipped Layer
Beat cream cheese and Swerve confectioners sugar until smooth. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the cream cheese mixture into the whipped cream. Spread evenly over the crust. Layer sliced strawberries on top.
Step 3 – Chill the Base
Freeze for 30 minutes to set.
Step 4 – Make the Gelatin Topping
Whisk hot water, Swerve confectioners sugar, strawberry flavoring, unflavored gelatin, and vanilla. Allow mixture to cool slightly until it begins to thicken.
Step 5 – Assemble
Pour gelatin mixture carefully over the strawberries and cream cheese layer. Refrigerate until fully set.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Food processor or blender
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Electric mixer (hand or stand)
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Mixing bowls
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9×9-inch baking dish
Storage
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Refrigerator: Cover tightly and store for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Not recommended (gelatin doesn’t freeze well).
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Make-ahead: Prepare up to 1 day in advance for best flavor and texture.
Smart Tips
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Let the gelatin cool and partially thicken before pouring—it prevents the cream cheese layer from getting soggy.
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For extra flavor, add fresh mint leaves on top before serving.
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Double the recipe for a 9×13-inch pan if serving a crowd.
FAQ
1. Can I make this with real sugar instead of Swerve?
Yes! Replace the sugar substitutes with regular sugar in equal amounts.
2. What fruits can I substitute?
Try raspberries, blueberries, or even a tropical twist with pineapple and mango.
3. How long does it take to set?
At least 4–6 hours in the fridge, but overnight is best.
4. Can I use store-bought Jell-O instead of homemade gelatin?
Absolutely—use strawberry Jell-O for convenience.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Pretzel Salad is a refreshing, make-ahead dessert that balances crunch, creaminess, and fruity flavor. Whether for summer barbecues, holiday dinners, or potluck gatherings, this dish always earns compliments and empty plates.
