Easy Individual Strawberry Pretzel Salad Parfaits

Summer is finally here and the sun is shining.

You need a dessert that is cool and crisp.

These Strawberry Pretzel Salad Parfaits are exactly what you need.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Everyone loves the classic layered dish from potlucks.

These individual cups make serving so much easier.

No messy slicing is required for your guests.

It is the perfect summer dessert for any crowd.

Simple Cooking Steps

You just bake a quick salty crumble first.

Then you whip up a fluffy cream layer.

Finally, you add the fresh berries and gelatin.

This is a simple no-stress method for beginners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These use simple items you likely already have.

• 2 cups crushed pretzels
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 8 ounces frozen whipped topping, thawed
• 6 ounces strawberry flavored gelatin
• 2 cups boiling water
• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

Step-by-Step

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix crushed pretzels, melted butter, and 3 tablespoons sugar in a bowl.
3. Spread pretzel mixture on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes; allow to cool completely.
4. In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar until smooth.
5. Fold in the whipped topping until fully incorporated.
6. Dissolve strawberry gelatin in boiling water and allow to cool to room temperature.
7. Stir sliced strawberries into the cooled gelatin mixture.
8. Layer the cooled pretzel crumble, cream cheese mixture, and strawberry gelatin mixture into 6 individual glasses.
9. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours until the gelatin layer is set.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve these parfaits chilled right from the fridge.

They look beautiful in clear glass jars.

Add a little extra whipped cream on top.

They are great for outdoor picnics and potlucks.

Keep It Fresh

Keep them in the fridge for 3 days.

Cover them with plastic wrap to stay fresh.

Do not freeze these parfaits.

The gelatin texture will change if frozen.

Recipe Tips

• Let the pretzel crumble cool completely first.
• This keeps the crunch alive in your layers.
• Use fresh summer strawberries for the best flavor.
• Don’t pour hot gelatin over the cream layer.
• It will melt your beautiful white mousse.
• Make these 24 hours ahead for easy entertaining.
• Press the pretzel base down firmly for more crunch.

Ways to Switch It Up

• Try raspberries instead of strawberries for a tang.
• Use gluten-free pretzels to help with allergies.
• Swap the sugar for honey in the crust.
• Add a layer of chocolate chips for fun.

Common Questions

Can I make these the night before?

Yes, these are perfect for making ahead of time. They need at least three hours to set properly.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh berries work best for the texture of the gelatin. Frozen berries can release too much water as they thaw.

Why is my pretzel layer soggy?

Make sure the pretzels are completely cool before adding the cream. This helps maintain that salty, buttery crunch.

I hope these parfaits bring a smile to your face. They are such a fun way to celebrate summer with your family. Happy cooking!

— Lidia