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Easy No-Bake Patriotic Pretzel Strawberry Slab Recipe for a Crowd

no bake patriotic pretzel strawberry slab - featured image
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A quick and easy no-bake dessert featuring a crunchy pretzel crust, creamy cream cheese filling, and fresh strawberry topping, perfect for summer parties and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups crushed pretzel pieces
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 cup (240ml) whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1/2 cup (160g) strawberry jam or preserves, warmed slightly
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pretzel Crust: In a large bowl, combine 3 cups crushed pretzels, 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Mix until the pretzels are evenly coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking pan. Use the back of a measuring cup for even compression. Chill in the fridge for 10 minutes to set.
  2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling: While the crust chills, beat 8 ounces softened cream cheese in a medium bowl until smooth using an electric mixer or whisk. Gradually add 1 cup powdered sugar, beating well after each addition to avoid lumps. Gently fold in 1 cup whipped topping until fully combined and fluffy. Be careful not to overmix.
  3. Assemble the Slab: Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the chilled pretzel crust. Smooth the top with a spatula to create an even layer.
  4. Prepare the Strawberry Topping: In a small bowl, mix 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries with 1/2 cup warmed strawberry jam and 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional). Spoon the strawberry mixture over the cream cheese layer, spreading gently.
  5. Chill Before Serving: Cover the slab with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally 4, to let flavors meld and the layers firm up.

Notes

Let cream cheese soften for about 30 minutes before mixing to avoid lumps. Crush pretzels to mostly small pieces with some chunks for texture. Fold whipped topping gently to keep filling light. Chill slab at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor and firmness. Use gluten-free pretzels and dairy-free substitutes for gluten-free or vegan versions. Drain strawberries if too juicy to avoid watery topping.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake dessert, pretzel crust, strawberry slab, summer dessert, patriotic dessert, easy dessert, crowd-pleaser

Find it online: https://snappyspoon.com/easy-no-bake-patriotic-pretzel-strawberry-slab-recipe-for-a-crowd/