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Easy Creamy Strawberry Pretzel Salad Parfaits

strawberry pretzel salad parfaits - featured image
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A quick and easy no-bake dessert featuring layers of crunchy pretzel crust, creamy filling, and fresh strawberry topping, perfect for summer treats and nostalgic flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups pretzels, finely crushed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream, chilled
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Make the Pretzel Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir well until the mixture looks like wet sand. Press a small amount between your fingers — it should stick together but not be soggy.
  2. Prepare the Creamy Filling: Using your mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy (about 2 minutes). Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then mix again until incorporated. Scrape down the bowl sides once or twice to blend evenly.
  3. Whip the Cream: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form (about 3-4 minutes on medium-high speed). Be careful not to overwhip — you want it smooth and fluffy, not grainy.
  4. Combine Filling and Whipped Cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Fold carefully to keep air in the mixture; overmixing will deflate it.
  5. Prepare Strawberry Topping: Toss sliced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice in a small bowl. Let sit for 10 minutes to macerate and develop flavor.
  6. Assemble the Parfaits: Start by spooning a layer of pretzel crust into each glass (about 2 tablespoons). Press lightly to pack. Next, add a generous layer (about 1/4 cup) of the creamy filling. Top with a spoonful of the macerated strawberries. Repeat layers if your glasses are tall enough for a second round. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving to let flavors meld and the crust set crisp.

Notes

Keep cream cheese softened for smooth mixing. Use chilled bowl and beaters for whipping cream. Press pretzel crust lightly to keep it crisp but not dense. Prepare crust and strawberry topping ahead for convenience. For extra crunch, sprinkle crushed pretzels on top before serving. Avoid freezing to maintain texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry pretzel salad, parfaits, no-bake dessert, summer dessert, creamy dessert, pretzel crust, easy dessert

Find it online: https://milacook.com/easy-creamy-strawberry-pretzel-salad-parfaits-recipe-for-perfect-summer-treats/