Description
Cherry Pretzel Squares are a delightful no-bake dessert featuring a crunchy salted pretzel crust topped with a creamy sweetened cream cheese layer and luscious cherry pie filling. Finished with an optional sprinkle of chopped pecans, this treat is perfect for parties or a refreshing summer dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 2 cups crushed salted pretzels
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 8 ounces whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Topping
- 1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the crust.
- Crush Pretzels: Use a food processor or place salted pretzels in a zip-top bag and crush them finely with a rolling pin.
- Combine Crust Ingredients: Mix the crushed pretzels, melted butter, and 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar thoroughly in a bowl to form the crust base.
- Form Crust: Press the pretzel mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring it forms a solid layer for the dessert.
- Bake Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes to set it, then remove and allow it to cool completely.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup granulated sugar until the mixture is fluffy and smooth.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until combined and airy.
- Spread Filling: Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled pretzel crust, sealing the edges to prevent cherry filling from seeping through.
- Add Cherry Topping: Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the cream cheese layer, distributing it nicely.
- Chill Dessert: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to allow it to set.
- Add Pecans (Optional): Before serving, sprinkle chopped pecans over the top if desired for added texture and flavor.
- Serve: Slice into squares and serve chilled for a refreshing treat.
Notes
- Ensure the pretzel crust is completely cooled before adding the cream cheese layer to avoid melting.
- The dessert is best when chilled overnight for optimal flavor and texture.
- You can substitute chopped walnuts or almonds for pecans if preferred.
- For a saltier crust, increase the amount of salted pretzels or add a pinch of salt to the crust mix.
- Use full-fat cream cheese and whipped topping for the creamiest texture.
