This fun dessert brings together sweet and salty in the best way! With a crunchy pretzel crust, creamy filling, and tangy raspberry topping, it’s a treat for your taste buds.
Honestly, the combination of pretzels and berries is like a party on your plate! I love serving it cold on hot days; it’s refreshing and perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pretzels: The crust’s crunch comes from crushed pretzels. You can swap for gluten-free pretzels if needed. I like a mix of regular and pretzel sticks for added texture.
Cream Cheese: Opt for full-fat cream cheese for the best rich flavor. Neufchâtel cheese is a lighter option that works well too. Avoid low-fat versions, as they may not hold up in texture.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This is essential for a fluffy layer! You can use thick coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative without sacrificing creaminess. Just chill it before whipping.
Raspberries: Fresh raspberries bring great flavor and color. If out of season, frozen raspberries can work too. Just thaw and drain excess liquid before use. You could also try strawberries for a twist.
How Do I Ensure the Gelatin Sets Perfectly?
Getting the gelatin just right can be tricky! Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Use boiling water to fully dissolve the gelatin powder; stir until you see no powder visible.
- Allow the mixture to cool until just warm before pouring it on the cream cheese layer. If it’s too hot, it’ll melt the cream layer!
- Patience is key! Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
How to Make Raspberry Pretzel Salad Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 2 cups pretzels, crushed
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh raspberries (plus extra for garnish if desired)
For the Gelatin Topping:
- 1 package (3 oz) raspberry gelatin (Jell-O)
- 2 cups boiling water
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert will take about 20 minutes to prepare, plus a chilling time of at least 4 hours in the refrigerator to allow the gelatin to set properly. You’ll love the perfect blend of textures and flavors by the time it’s ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix the crushed pretzels, melted butter, and 3 tablespoons of sugar together until it’s well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even crust. Bake it in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool completely.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
While the crust cools, grab a large bowl and beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup of sugar until it’s nice and smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Gently fold this whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until it’s all creamy and well blended. Once combined, spread this mixture evenly over your cooled pretzel crust. Sprinkle the fresh raspberries over the cream cheese layer, pushing a few into the filling for a tasty surprise.
3. Prepare the Raspberry Gelatin Topping:
Next, in another bowl, dissolve the raspberry gelatin powder in 2 cups of boiling water. Stir it well until there are no granules visible. Allow the gelatin to cool to room temperature, but don’t let it set yet! Once cooled, pour the gelatin gently over the cream cheese and raspberry layer, spreading it evenly.
4. Chill and Serve:
Cover your dessert and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or until the gelatin is fully set. Once set, carefully cut the cake into squares. You can garnish each piece with extra pretzel bits or fresh raspberries if you like, and serve it chilled. Enjoy this deliciously sweet and salty treat!
This delightful Raspberry Pretzel Salad Cake brings the best flavors together, making it a perfect dessert for gatherings or just because. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Raspberries?
Absolutely! You can substitute raspberries with strawberries, blueberries, or even chopped peaches. Just make sure to adjust the gelatin flavor to complement the fruit you choose!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Raspberry Pretzel Salad Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just remember to keep the dessert chilled!
Can I Make This Dessert Ahead of Time?
Yes, this dessert is great for making ahead! You can prepare it a day in advance; just ensure it has enough time to chill and set. It will taste even better the next day!
What Should I Do If My Gelatin Doesn’t Set?
If your gelatin isn’t setting, it might be because it was added while still too warm or not mixed thoroughly. For future attempts, ensure it’s cooled adequately and check that it’s properly dissolved before adding it to the cream layer.