Print

Easy No-Bake Strawberry Pretzel Dessert Bars

no-bake strawberry pretzel dessert bars - featured image
Print Recipe

These easy no-bake strawberry pretzel dessert bars combine a crunchy pretzel crust with a creamy filling and fresh strawberries for a perfect summer treat that requires no oven.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups crushed pretzels
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (room temperature)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 8 ounces whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine 3 cups crushed pretzels, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter. Stir well until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking pan, creating an even layer. This should take about 5 minutes.
  2. Place the pan in the fridge while you prepare the filling. Chill for at least 10 minutes.
  3. In a large bowl, beat 8 ounces softened cream cheese with 1 cup powdered sugar until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed. Add 8 ounces whipped topping and gently fold it in with a spatula, being careful not to deflate the mixture.
  4. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the chilled pretzel crust. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even surface.
  5. In a small bowl, toss 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries with 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Let sit for 5 minutes to macerate slightly.
  6. Evenly distribute the strawberries over the cream cheese layer. Optionally, sprinkle a handful of crushed pretzels on top for extra crunch.
  7. Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably 4, to allow the layers to set and the flavors to meld.
  8. Once chilled, cut into bars (about 12-16 pieces) using a sharp knife. Clean the knife between cuts for neat edges. Serve chilled and enjoy.

Notes

Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth filling. Chill the crust before adding filling to prevent sogginess. For firmer bars, freeze for 10 minutes before serving. Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping for lactose-free version. Use gluten-free pretzels or nuts for gluten-free option. Fresh strawberries are best; if using frozen, thaw and drain excess liquid.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake dessert, strawberry dessert bars, pretzel dessert, summer dessert, easy dessert, no oven dessert, creamy dessert, sweet and salty dessert

Find it online: https://noshbelle.com/easy-no-bake-strawberry-pretzel-dessert-bars-recipe-for-perfect-summer-treats/