Strawberry Pretzel Salad America's Test Kitchen
Strawberry Pretzel Salad is a classic American dessert that has been enjoyed by many for years. It is a perfect combination of sweet and salty, crunchy and creamy, and it's ideal for any occasion. Whether you are celebrating a special event, hosting a party, or just want to satisfy your sweet tooth, this dessert is sure to please.
The History of Strawberry Pretzel Salad
The origins of Strawberry Pretzel Salad are unclear. Some say that it was first created in the 1960s by a home cook who wanted to make a dessert that was both sweet and savory. Others believe that the recipe was developed by a food company as a way to promote their products. Regardless of its origin, Strawberry Pretzel Salad has become a beloved dessert in the United States.
The Ingredients
The ingredients for Strawberry Pretzel Salad are simple and easy to find. They include:
- 2 cups of crushed pretzels
- 3/4 cup of melted butter
- 3 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 package of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 container of whipped topping
- 2 packages of strawberry flavored gelatin
- 2 cups of boiling water
- 2 cups of cold water
- 4 cups of sliced strawberries
The Preparation
The preparation of Strawberry Pretzel Salad is simple and straightforward. Here are the steps:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, melted butter, and 3 tablespoons of sugar. Mix well.
- Press the pretzel mixture into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes, or until lightly browned. Set aside to cool.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar until smooth. Add the whipped topping and mix well.
- Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the cooled pretzel crust, making sure to spread it evenly.
- In a separate mixing bowl, dissolve the gelatin in the boiling water. Add the cold water and stir well. Add the sliced strawberries and mix well.
- Pour the strawberry mixture over the cream cheese layer. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
The Variations
Strawberry Pretzel Salad is a versatile dessert that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Here are some variations:
- Use different flavored gelatin, such as raspberry or cherry.
- Add chopped nuts to the pretzel crust for extra crunch.
- Replace the strawberries with other fruits, such as peaches or blueberries.
- Use a different type of pretzel, such as chocolate-covered pretzels.
The Conclusion
Strawberry Pretzel Salad is a classic American dessert that is loved by many. It is easy to make, delicious to eat, and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you are hosting a party or just want to indulge in a sweet treat, this dessert is sure to please.
