Crisp pretzel crust, creamy center, and bright strawberry topping offer a sweet-salty chilled delight.
# Components:
→ Pretzel Crust
01 - 2 cups salted pretzels, crushed
02 - 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
03 - 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
→ Cream Cheese Layer
04 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
05 - 1 cup granulated sugar
06 - 8 ounces whipped topping, thawed
→ Strawberry Gelatin Layer
07 - 2 packages (3 ounces each) strawberry-flavored gelatin
08 - 2 cups boiling water
09 - 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
# Directions:
01 - Set the oven to 350°F and allow it to fully preheat.
02 - Blend crushed pretzels, melted butter, and 3 tablespoons of sugar in a bowl until well combined.
03 - Firmly press the pretzel mixture into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish, creating an even layer. Bake for 10 minutes, then allow crust to cool completely.
04 - In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and 1 cup granulated sugar until completely smooth. Gently fold in the whipped topping.
05 - Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled pretzel crust, sealing the edges thoroughly to avoid gelatin seepage.
06 - In a separate bowl, dissolve strawberry gelatin in 2 cups boiling water. Allow mixture to cool to room temperature.
07 - Stir the sliced fresh strawberries into the cooled gelatin solution until well distributed.
08 - Gradually pour the strawberry gelatin mixture over the cream cheese layer, ensuring coverage without disturbing the filling.
09 - Refrigerate assembled dessert for a minimum of 4 hours or until the gelatin is completely firm.
10 - Slice into squares and serve chilled.
