Strawberry Crackle Salad Recipe

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If you love desserts that balance sweet and salty flavors with irresistible textures, this Strawberry Crackle Salad recipe is about to win your heart. Creamy, crunchy, fruity, and refreshingly light, this classic dessert salad is perfect for potlucks, holidays, family dinners, and summer gatherings. Juicy strawberries meet a fluffy cream layer and a buttery pretzel crunch that truly crackles with every bite.

Ingredients

Crunchy Pretzel Topping

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

Creamy Filling

• 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 16 oz whipped topping

Fruit Layer

• 4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

Instructions for Strawberry Crackle Salad Recipe

1. Make the Pretzel Crackle

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, mix crushed pretzels, pecans, and brown sugar.
3. Stir in melted butter until evenly coated.
4. Spread mixture in an even layer on the baking sheet.
5. Bake for 8–10 minutes, until bubbling and golden.
6. Cool completely, then break into crunchy pieces.

2. Prepare the Cream Layer

1. Beat softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
2. Gently fold in whipped topping until light and fluffy.
3. Refrigerate until ready to assemble.

3. Assemble the Salad

1. Spread cream mixture into a large serving dish.
2. Layer sliced strawberries evenly on top.
3. Sprinkle pretzel crackle generously over the strawberries.
4. Chill until serving.

Pro Tips

• Fully cool the pretzel mixture to keep it crunchy
• Use ripe but firm strawberries to avoid excess moisture
• Fold whipped topping gently to maintain fluffiness
• Assemble close to serving time for best texture

Why This Recipe Works

• Perfect contrast of sweet, salty, creamy, and crunchy
• Simple ingredients with big flavor payoff
• No complicated techniques required
• Ideal for make-ahead entertaining

Substitutions & Variations

• Swap strawberries for raspberries, peaches, or mixed berries
• Skip pecans for a nut-free version
• Use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping
• Add a drizzle of chocolate for extra indulgence

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

Make-Ahead

• Prepare pretzel topping and cream mixture up to 24 hours in advance
• Store separately and assemble before serving

Storage

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days

Reheating

• Not required; serve chilled for best flavor and texture

Serving Ideas for Strawberry Crackle Salad Recipe

• Serve in clear trifle bowls to highlight layers
• Spoon into individual dessert cups for parties
• Pair with grilled meats for sweet contrast
• Add mint leaves for fresh presentation

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

• Calories: ~360
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 2g

(Values are estimates and may vary)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Yes, freshly whipped cream works beautifully. Whip to stiff peaks and fold gently.

How long does Strawberry Crackle Salad last?

Up to 3 days refrigerated, though crunch softens over time.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

No, freezing affects the creamy texture and is not recommended.

Can I make this nut-free?

Absolutely. Simply omit the pecans and increase pretzels slightly.

Can I assemble it early?

For best results, assemble within 2–4 hours of serving.

This Strawberry Crackle Salad recipe delivers everything you want in a dessert—creamy layers, juicy fruit, and a buttery crunch that steals the show. Easy to prepare and always a crowd favorite, it’s the kind of recipe that earns repeat requests and empty bowls every time.

Strawberry Crackle Salad Recipe

Olivia taling

This Strawberry Crackle Salad Recipe combines creamy layers, fresh juicy strawberries, and a buttery pretzel crunch for the perfect sweet and salty dessert. Ideal for potlucks, holidays, and summer gatherings, this easy dessert salad delivers irresistible texture and flavor in every bite.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Dessert Salad

Cuisine American

Servings 12 servings

Calories 365 kcal

Equipment

• baking sheet
• parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Spatula
• serving dish

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups crushed pretzels
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup butter, melted
• 2 8 oz packages cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 16 oz whipped topping
• 4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• In a bowl, mix crushed pretzels, chopped pecans, and brown sugar. Stir in melted butter until evenly coated.
• Spread mixture evenly on the baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes until bubbling and golden. Cool completely, then break into crunchy pieces.
• Beat softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
• Gently fold in whipped topping until light and fluffy. Refrigerate until ready to assemble.
• Spread the cream mixture into a large serving dish and layer sliced strawberries evenly on top.
• Sprinkle the cooled pretzel crackle over the strawberries and chill until serving.

Notes

Best served chilled. Fully cool the pretzel mixture before assembling to maintain crunch. Assemble close to serving time for maximum texture. Adjust sweetness based on strawberry ripeness. Store components separately if making ahead.

Keyword pretzel strawberry dessert, strawberry crackle salad, strawberry pretzel salad, sweet and salty dessert

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