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A perfect slice of cranberry pretzel salad on a plate, showing all three layers.

Easy Cranberry Pretzel Salad


  • Author: Ava Mitchell
  • Total Time: 5 hours 45 minutes
  • Yield: 15 Servings 1x

Description

The best Cranberry Pretzel Salad recipe! This no-fail holiday dessert features three perfect layers: a salty-sweet pretzel crust, a rich cream cheese center, and a tart cranberry Jello topping. A holiday classic!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ½ cups crushed pretzels
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (1 stick)
  • 3 tablespoons + ½ cup granulated sugar, divided
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 (8 ounce) tub of whipped topping, thawed
  • 2 (3 ounce) packets of cranberry Jello
  • 2 cups boiling water
  • 1 (14 ounce) can of whole berry cranberry sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, mix the crushed pretzels, melted butter, and 3 tablespoons of sugar until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch pan. Bake for 10 minutes. Set aside to cool completely.
  2. While the crust bakes, dissolve the cranberry Jello in 2 cups of boiling water in a separate bowl. Stir in the can of whole berry cranberry sauce until combined. Set this mixture aside to cool to room temperature.
  3. Once the crust is completely cool, beat the softened cream cheese and the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar in a large bowl until smooth. Fold in the thawed whipped topping gently until no streaks remain.
  4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust. Use an offset spatula to spread it all the way to the edges, creating a complete seal. This prevents the Jello from leaking.
  5. Refrigerate the dish for 1 hour, or until the cream layer is firm and set.
  6. Once the Jello mixture is at room temperature (not hot!), slowly and gently pour it over the set cream cheese layer.
  7. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the Jello is completely firm.
  8. To serve, slice into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Ensure the crust and Jello mixture are completely cooled before assembling to prevent melting and a soggy crust.
  • Sealing the edges of the pan with the cream cheese layer is the most important step!
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Chill Time: 5 hours 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: per serving
  • Calories: 317 kcal
  • Sugar: 33g
  • Sodium: 281mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Carbohydrates: 46g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 32mg