Sweet & Salty Cherry Pretzel Squares: The Ultimate Summer Treat
These Cherry Pretzel Squares deliver the perfect contrast of textures and flavors in every bite. A crunchy, buttery pretzel base provides the salty foundation, while a cloud-like cream cheese filling and ruby-red cherry topping create layers of indulgence.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 3 cups pretzels, chopped
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 (18-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (18-ounce) container frozen whipped dessert topping, thawed
- 2 (21-ounce) cans Regular or Premium Cherry Pie Filling
Instructions
- Prepare the crust by combining chopped pretzels, brown sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl until well mixed. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, creating an even layer.
- Chill the crust in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set.
- Beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar together in a large bowl using an electric mixer on medium speed until completely smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Fold in the thawed whipped topping gently with a rubber spatula until just combined.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chilled pretzel crust.
- Spoon the cherry pie filling gently over the cream cheese layer.
- Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Cut into squares just before serving.
Notes
- Crush with control: Pulse pretzels in short bursts in your food processor—you want small pieces with some texture remaining.
- Fully chill between layers: Give each layer proper time to set in the refrigerator.
- Room temperature cream cheese: Let your cream cheese sit out for at least 30 minutes before mixing.
- Create a seal: Spread the cream cheese mixture all the way to the edges of your dish.
- Drain excess cherry liquid: Spoon off a tablespoon or two of the gel before topping.
- Clean-cut presentation: Dip your knife in hot water and wipe clean between cuts.
Find it online: https://www.sweethomecook.com/cherry-pretzel-squares/