Go Back
–+ servings
Strawberry Crackle Salad

Refreshing Strawberry Crackle Salad for Summer Gatherings

This Strawberry Crackle Salad blends fresh strawberries with a creamy base and a crunchy topping, perfect for summer gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Crunchy Topping
  • 2 cups crushed pretzels substitute with gluten-free pretzels for gluten-free option
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans can be swapped for walnuts or omitted for nut-free option
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar light or dark varieties can be used
  • 1/2 cup melted butter salted butter enhances flavor
For the Creamy Layer
  • 8 ounces cream cheese ensure it's softened for easy mixing
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract almond extract can be used for a twist
  • 8 ounces Cool Whip can replace with homemade whipped cream
For the Fresh Element
  • 4 cups sliced strawberries use ripe, in-season berries for best flavor

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Electric Mixer
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine crushed pretzels, chopped pecans, and brown sugar, then pour in melted butter and mix well.
  3. Spread the pretzel mixture on the baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
  4. Remove from the oven and allow the pretzel topping to cool completely.
  5. In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and vanilla extract until fluffy.
  6. Gently fold in the Cool Whip until fully incorporated and refrigerate the mixture.
  7. Before serving, fold the sliced strawberries and two-thirds of the pretzel mixture into the creamy layer.
  8. Transfer the combined mixture to a serving bowl, sprinkle remaining pretzel topping on top, and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 34gProtein: 3gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

For optimal freshness, store the salad in airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Use gluten-free pretzels for gluten-free options, and a lighter option could be made by substituting cream cheese with Greek yogurt.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!