Peach pretzel salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that brings a burst of flavor to your Easter table. With its crunchy pretzel crust, creamy cheese layer, and sweet peach gelatin topping, this dessert is both indulgent and light. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Serve it chilled for a blissful treat that everyone will love!
Table of Contents
Peach Pretzel Salad Ingredients
Crust Ingredients
- 2½ cups crushed pretzels
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup melted butter
Cream Cheese Layer Ingredients
- 12 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 12 ounces Cool Whip
Peach Gelatin Layer Ingredients
- 6-ounce package peach gelatin
- 2 cups boiling water
- 2 cups ice water
- 4 cups peeled and diced fresh peaches (about 4 to 5 large peaches)
How To Make This Peach Pretzel Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Pretzel Crust
Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly butter a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then allow it to cool completely.
Step 2: Create the Cream Cheese Filling
In a large bowl, beat the room-temperature cream cheese, the remaining ¾ cup of sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the Cool Whip until well mixed. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust, ensuring it reaches the edges to create a barrier against the gelatin.
Step 3: Prepare the Peach Gelatin Layer
In another bowl, dissolve the peach gelatin in 2 cups of boiling water. After it’s completely dissolved, add 2 cups of ice water and stir in the diced peaches. Let this mixture sit in the refrigerator for 15 minutes, or until it starts to thicken.
Step 4: Assemble and Chill
Carefully pour the peach gelatin mixture over the cream cheese layer. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 2 hours, or until set. Once firm, cut into squares for serving and enjoy this refreshing dessert!
Tips for the Perfect Peach Pretzel Salad
Use Finely Crushed Pretzels
For the best texture, ensure your pretzels are finely crushed. A food processor works wonders for this task!
Seal the Cream Cheese Layer
Make sure to spread the cream cheese mixture to the edges of the pretzel crust to prevent any gelatin seepage.
Prevent Peach Discoloration
Add the diced peaches to the hot gelatin mixture immediately after chopping to maintain their beautiful color.
Serving Suggestions for Peach Pretzel Salad
Pairing with Ice Cream
This dessert pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, adding a creamy finish to each bite.
Serving at Gatherings
Peach pretzel salad is perfect for potlucks and family gatherings. Its vibrant colors and delicious flavors are sure to impress!
Storing Peach Pretzel Salad
Refrigeration Guidelines
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to keep it covered to maintain freshness.
Freezing Not Recommended
Freezing this dessert is not recommended as it may affect the texture of the gelatin layer.
FAQs
What is the best way to make peach pretzel salad?
The best way to make peach pretzel salad is to follow the instructions carefully, ensuring that each layer is prepared properly and allowed to chill until set.
Can I prepare peach pretzel salad ahead of time?
Yes, peach pretzel salad can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
What ingredients do I need for peach pretzel salad?
The ingredients needed for peach pretzel salad include crushed pretzels, sugar, butter, cream cheese, vanilla extract, Cool Whip, peach gelatin, boiling water, ice water, and fresh peaches.
More Delicious Recipes to Try Next
- Chopped Peach Caprese Salad
- Italian Grinder Salad
- Creamy Caprese Pasta Salad
- Lemon Arugula Pasta Salad
- Creamy Street Corn Pasta Salad
Conclusion
This peach pretzel salad is perfect for any occasion, especially during Easter celebrations. Its light texture and vibrant flavors make it a standout dessert. For more inspiration, check out delicious recipes on Pinterest for a variety of dishes that will delight your family and friends.
Easy Peach Pretzel Salad
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking dish
- whisk or mixer
- Measuring cups
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 2½ cups crushed pretzels
- 1½ cups granulated sugar (divided into ¾ cup and ¾ cup)
- ¾ cup melted butter
- 12 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 12 ounces Cool Whip
- 6 ounce package peach gelatin
- 2 cups boiling water
- 2 cups ice water
- 4 cups peeled and diced fresh peaches (about 4 to 5 large peaches)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix crushed pretzels, ¾ cup sugar, and melted butter, then press into the bottom of the baking dish.
- Bake for 10 minutes and allow to cool completely.
- Beat cream cheese, remaining ¾ cup sugar, and vanilla until smooth, then fold in Cool Whip.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled pretzel crust.
- Dissolve gelatin in boiling water, add ice water and diced peaches, then refrigerate until it thickens.
- Pour the peach gelatin mixture over the cream cheese layer and refrigerate for 2 hours or until set.