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Strawberry Crackle Salad

Strawberry Crackle Salad: A Sweet Summer Treat to Share

This Strawberry Crackle Salad combines vibrant strawberries with a crunchy pretzel topping for a delightful summer dessert.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Topping
  • 2 cups Crushed Pretzels Provides a salty crunch; substitute with crushed graham crackers for a softer texture.
  • 1 cup Chopped Pecans Offers richness and depth; can be replaced with walnuts or omitted if nut-free.
  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar Adds sweetness with a hint of molasses; light or dark brown sugar can be used interchangeably.
  • 1/2 cup Melted Butter Binds the crust and enhances flavor; salted butter is recommended for added taste.
For the Creamy Filling
  • 4 cups Fresh Strawberries Primary fruit component offering freshness; use ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese Creates a creamy filling; ensure it’s softened to prevent lumps.
  • 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar Sweetens the cream cheese mixture and balances the tartness.
  • 1 tsp Vanilla Extract Adds warmth and flavor complexity; almond extract can be used for a twist.
  • 8 oz Cool Whip Provides a light and airy texture to the filling; other whipped toppings can be used in a pinch.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Spatula

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, chopped pecans, and brown sugar. Pour in the melted butter and stir until evenly coated.
  3. Spread the pretzel mixture evenly over the lined baking sheet. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden. Allow to cool completely.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  5. Gently fold in the Cool Whip into the cream cheese mixture with a spatula.
  6. Fold in the freshly sliced strawberries and half of the pretzel crunch. Top with the remaining pretzel crunch just before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps. Add the topping right before serving for optimal crispness. Use fresh strawberries for the best flavor.

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