Description
Lemon Pretzel Salad is a delightful layered dessert that brings together the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors. With a crunchy pretzel crust, a creamy cream cheese filling, and a zesty lemon topping, this treat is both refreshing and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups crushed pretzels (divided: 2 ½ cups for crust, ¼ cup for garnish)
- 1 ¼ cups granulated sugar (divided: ½ cup for crust, ¾ cup for filling)
- ¾ cup salted butter, melted and cooled
- 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 16 ounces whipped topping, thawed (divided: 12 ounces for filling, 4 ounces for garnish)
- 22 ounces lemon pie filling
- 1 medium lemon, thinly sliced into 12 slices (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a medium bowl, combine 2 ½ cups of crushed pretzels and ½ cup of granulated sugar. Pour the melted butter over the pretzel mixture and stir until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the remaining ¾ cup of granulated sugar and continue to beat until well incorporated. Gently fold in 12 ounces of the whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Assemble the Dessert: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust, ensuring it reaches the edges to seal the crust. Carefully spread the lemon pie filling over the cream cheese layer. Cover the dessert and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with the remaining whipped topping, a sprinkle of the reserved ¼ cup of crushed pretzels, and a slice of lemon on each piece, if desired.
Notes
- Try using different fruit fillings such as strawberry, blueberry, or raspberry for a unique twist.
- For a sweeter crust, substitute crushed graham crackers or vanilla wafers for the pretzels.
- Make your own lemon curd for a fresher, more natural topping instead of using canned pie filling.
- Ensure the crust is completely cooled before adding the cream cheese layer to prevent sogginess.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
