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Strawberry Crackle Salad Recipe

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4 from 15 reviews

Strawberry Crackle Salad is a delightful layered dessert perfect for gatherings, featuring a crunchy pretzel and pecan topping baked to perfection, creamy sweetened cream cheese filling folded with cool whip, and fresh sliced strawberries. The combination of textures and flavors creates a refreshing and indulgent treat ideal for serving 10-12 people.

Ingredients

Topping

  • 2 cups crushed pretzels
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup butter, melted

Fruit

  • 4 cups sliced strawberries

Cream Mixture

  • 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 16 oz cool whip

Instructions

  1. Prepare Pretzel Topping: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, combine crushed pretzels, chopped pecans, and brown sugar. Pour melted butter over the mixture and stir well to thoroughly combine.
  2. Bake Topping: Spread the pretzel mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until the mixture is bubbling and golden. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely on the pan before breaking into small pieces.
  3. Make Cream Cheese Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the cool whip until just combined, creating a light and fluffy cream mixture. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
  4. Assemble and Serve: When ready to serve, spread or layer the cream cheese mixture in a serving dish. Top with sliced fresh strawberries, then sprinkle the cooled pretzel crunch on top. Optionally, mix in the pretzel crunch into the cream mixture right before serving and add extra pretzel topping on top for an added crunchy finish.

Notes

  • Be sure to allow the pretzel topping to cool completely before breaking it to avoid sogginess in the salad.
  • This dessert is best served chilled and can be prepared a few hours ahead of time.
  • For a nut-free version, omit the pecans and increase the pretzel quantity.
  • Use fresh ripe strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
  • This salad contains milk, nuts, wheat, and strawberries; please be mindful of allergen concerns.

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/strawberry-crackle-salad-recipe/