This Raspberry Pretzel Jello is a fun and colorful treat! With a crunchy pretzel crust, creamy layer, and refreshing raspberry flavor, it’s perfect for parties or a cozy dessert night.
Honestly, who can resist that sweet and salty combo? I love scooping up a piece and enjoying the layers. It’s a crowd-pleaser that looks as good as it tastes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pretzels: Crushed pretzels make a great salty crust. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free pretzels or crushed nuts for a different but tasty option!
Butter: Unsalted butter helps control the saltiness of your crust. If you need a dairy-free version, substitutes like coconut oil or dairy-free margarine can work well.
Raspberry Jello: This is essential for the fruity flavor. If you want a healthier option, consider using a natural fruit gelatin or making your own with fruit juice and gelatin. In a pinch, any berry-flavored Jello will do!
Cream Cheese: Regular cream cheese gives richness. For a lighter version, try low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt. Both can give a creamy texture with fewer calories.
Whipped Topping: It adds lightness to the filling. You can make your own whipped cream or swap in a dairy-free whipped topping to keep it light and fluffy.
How Do I Get the Pretzel Crust Just Right?
The pretzel crust is key for that crunchy, salty base! Here’s how to make it perfect:
- Make sure to crush the pretzels into smaller pieces – a food processor works well!
- Mix crushed pretzels with melted butter and sugar until well coated, so you have a firm crust.
- Press the mixture evenly into the baking dish to avoid a crumbly crust after baking.
- Baking it at 375°F for about 10 minutes helps set it nicely. Let it cool completely before adding layers!
Getting these steps right will ensure your dessert has that delightful contrast of textures! Enjoy making this festive treat!
Raspberry Pretzel Jello
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 2 cups crushed pretzels
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
For The Jello Layer:
- 1 (3 oz) package raspberry flavored Jello
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup cold water
For The Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1 (8 oz) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
For Garnish:
- Fresh raspberries
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare, plus a chilling time of about 3-4 hours. That gives you enough time to relax while it sets up in the fridge!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the crushed pretzels, melted butter, and granulated sugar until everything is evenly combined. This mixture should be moistened but not soggy.
2. Bake the Crust:
Press the pretzel mixture into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish evenly to form a crust. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes. Once done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely.
3. Make the Jello Layer:
While the crust is cooling, prepare the raspberry Jello. In a separate bowl, dissolve the raspberry Jello powder in 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved. Then, add 1 cup of cold water and refrigerate it for about 45 minutes, letting it thicken but not set completely.
4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth. Gently fold in the drained crushed pineapple and thawed whipped topping until everything is well mixed.
5. Layer the Components:
Once the pretzel crust has cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over it. Then, carefully pour the thickened raspberry Jello over the cream cheese layer, smoothing it out if needed.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the dish and refrigerate the dessert for at least 3-4 hours, or until the Jello is fully set. Before serving, garnish with fresh raspberries around the edges for a beautiful finish. Cut into squares and serve chilled for a delightful treat!
Enjoy this deliciously layered Raspberry Pretzel Jello with its perfect balance of tangy raspberries, creamy filling, and crunchy pretzel crust! It’s sure to impress at any gathering!
Can I Use Sugar-Free Jello for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute sugar-free raspberry Jello in this recipe for a lower-sugar option. The texture and flavor will still be delightful!
How Can I Make This Dessert Gluten-Free?
If you want to make this Raspberry Pretzel Jello gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pretzels for the crust. Everything else in the recipe is already gluten-free!
Can I Prepare This Dessert in Advance?
You can make the Raspberry Pretzel Jello a day or two ahead of time. Just make sure to cover it tightly in the fridge to keep it fresh. It holds up beautifully and is perfect for gatherings!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Enjoy it cold directly from the fridge, or let it sit for a few minutes to come to room temperature for a softer texture.
