Get ready to discover your new favorite potluck hero! These Cherry Pretzel Squares deliver an irresistible combination of a crunchy, salty pretzel crust, a rich and creamy cheesecake filling, and a sweet, vibrant cherry topping. It’s a classic layered dessert that hits all the right notes and keeps everyone coming back for more. This recipe is surprisingly simple and perfect for making ahead.
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Pretzel Squares Recipe
There are so many reasons to adore this dessert. The salty, buttery crunch of the pretzel base perfectly cuts through the sweetness of the cherry topping and the tangy cream cheese layer. It’s a delightful texture and flavor explosion in every single bite!
- Perfectly Balanced: The ultimate sweet and salty combination that satisfies every craving.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit at parties, holidays, and family gatherings. No one can resist it!
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble it the day before to let the flavors meld and make party day a breeze.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with easy-to-find ingredients you might already have on hand.
What Are Cherry Pretzel Squares? (Salad or Dessert?)
You might have heard this dish called “Cherry Pretzel Salad.” While it’s served in squares and eaten with a fork, its sweet profile firmly places it in the dessert category for most. The “salad” name is a charming quirk from the era of congealed salads and sweet potluck dishes. Whatever you call it, it’s undeniably delicious and a standout on any dessert table. It’s in the same family as another fantastic no-bake dessert that everyone loves.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, staple ingredients to create its magic. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:
For the Pretzel Crust:
- Pretzels: Crushed into small pieces for that signature salty crunch.
- Granulated Sugar: Just a touch to balance the saltiness.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted, to bind the crust together.
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- Cream Cheese: Softened to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free texture.
- Granulated Sugar: To sweeten the tangy cream cheese.
- Whipped Topping: Like Cool Whip, thawed. This keeps the filling light and stable.
For the Cherry Topping:
- Cherry Pie Filling: The classic, convenient choice for a perfect cherry layer.
- Cherry Jell-O Mix: This helps the topping set firmly and adds a burst of cherry flavor.
- Boiling Water: To dissolve the Jell-O powder completely.
How to Make Cherry Pretzel Squares (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps for a flawless dessert. The key is allowing each layer to cool and set properly before adding the next.
Step 1: Prepare the Pretzel Crust
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and the melted butter. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes to set the crust. Most importantly, allow it to cool completely before adding the next layer.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Filling
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup of granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until it’s fully combined and no streaks remain. Carefully spread this cream cheese mixture over the *completely cooled* pretzel crust, ensuring you seal it all the way to the edges of the dish. This creates a barrier to prevent the crust from getting soggy. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Step 3: Create the Cherry Jell-O Topping
While the cream cheese layer is chilling, prepare the topping. In a bowl, dissolve the cherry Jell-O mix in boiling water, stirring until no granules are left. Gently stir in the cherry pie filling. Let this mixture cool at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes, or until it’s no longer hot to the touch. You don’t want to melt the cream cheese layer.
Step 4: Assemble and Chill
Once the Jell-O mixture is cooled, carefully pour it over the chilled cream cheese layer. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight, until the topping is completely firm. This dessert is a great alternative to a classic pie crust recipe when you’re short on time.
Pro Tips for a Perfect, Non-Soggy Crust
The number one challenge with Cherry Pretzel Squares is a soggy crust. Here are the secrets to avoiding it:
- Bake the Crust: The initial 10-minute bake helps toast the pretzels and create a firmer base.
- Cool Completely: Never, ever spread the filling on a warm crust. This is the most crucial step. A warm crust will create steam and turn soft.
- Seal the Edges: When spreading the cream cheese layer, make sure it goes all the way to the edges of the dish. This forms a waterproof barrier between the Jell-O and the pretzels. If you love this flavor profile, you have to try these strawberry cheesecake stuffed cookies next!
Fun Variations to Try
While the cherry version is a classic, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment!
- Strawberry Pretzel Squares: Simply swap the cherry pie filling and Jell-O for strawberry versions.
- Raspberry or Peach: Use raspberry or peach pie filling and a corresponding Jell-O flavor for a different fruity twist.
- Mandarin Orange: For a citrusy version, use mandarin oranges (drained) and orange Jell-O. It tastes very similar to a creamy fruit salad recipe.
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
Making Ahead
This is the perfect make-ahead dessert! You can prepare it fully a day in advance. In fact, it’s even better on the second day as the flavors have time to meld together perfectly.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cherry Pretzel Squares tightly covered in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 3 days, although the crust may start to soften slightly by day three.
Cherry Pretzel Squares FAQs
Yes, absolutely! This dessert is perfect for making one day in advance. This allows the layers to set firmly and the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Definitely! This recipe is very versatile. Strawberry pie filling with strawberry Jell-O is a very popular variation. You can also try raspberry, peach, or even mandarin oranges with corresponding Jell-O flavors.
While you can, it requires extra steps. You would need to pit and cook the cherries down with sugar, cornstarch, and water to create a filling similar to canned pie filling. For consistency and ease, canned cherry pie filling is recommended.
There are three keys: 1) Bake the crust for 10 minutes and let it cool completely. 2) Spread the cream cheese filling all the way to the edges to create a seal. 3) Let the Jell-O topping cool to room temperature before pouring it on top.
Stored in a covered container, they will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. The crust will be at its crunchiest on the first and second day.
The Ultimate Cherry Pretzel Squares Recipe
Cherry Pretzel Squares: The Perfect Sweet & Salty Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine crushed pretzels, 1/4 cup sugar, and melted butter. Press into a 9x13-inch dish. Bake for 10 minutes. Let it cool COMPLETELY.
- Beat softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth. Fold in whipped topping. Spread over the cooled crust, sealing the edges. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Dissolve cherry Jell-O mix in boiling water. Stir in the cherry pie filling. Let the mixture cool at room temperature until no longer hot.
- Carefully pour the cooled cherry mixture over the chilled cream cheese layer. Refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight, until fully set.
Notes
Spreading the cream cheese filling to seal the edges of the crust is crucial for keeping it crisp.
Allow the Jell-O topping to cool to room temperature before pouring it over the cream cheese layer to prevent melting.
Share Your Creation!
I hope you love making these delicious Cherry Pretzel Squares! They are a true testament to how simple ingredients can create something spectacular. If you make this recipe, I’d love to see it. Please share your creation and tag me on Pinterest!
