This crowd-pleasing recipe starts with a buttery, caramelized pretzel and pecan crust that brings the crackle. Then comes the fluffy cream cheese and Cool Whip filling, layered with fresh, juicy strawberries. The result? A dish that’s light, luscious, and just the right amount of indulgent. It’s part salad, part dessert, and totally irresistible.
Whether you’re bringing it to a family barbecue, a church picnic, or simply making it for your own weekend craving, this chilled delight is sure to steal the show.
Ingredients
For the Crackle Layer:
2 cups crushed pretzels
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup butter, melted
For the Creamy Layer:
2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
16 oz Cool Whip
Topping:
4 cups sliced fresh strawberries
Directions
Step 1: Make the Pretzel Crackle
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine:
2 cups crushed pretzels
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup brown sugar
Pour in the melted butter and stir until everything is well-coated.
Spread the mixture out evenly on the lined sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, until it becomes bubbly and golden. Let it cool completely—it will firm up into that signature crunchy crackle. Once cooled, break it into small clusters or shards.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Layer
In a large bowl, beat together:
2 softened cream cheese blocks
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
Mix until smooth and creamy with no lumps.
Gently fold in the Cool Whip until fully incorporated, being careful not to deflate it. Cover and chill the cream mixture until you’re ready to serve.
Step 3: Assemble and Serve
When you’re ready to serve, gently fold in:
The 4 cups sliced strawberries
The cooled pretzel-pecan crunch
Serve immediately to preserve the texture of the crackle.
Pro Tip: For added visual appeal and crunch, reserve a handful of pretzel crackle and strawberries to sprinkle over the top right before serving.
Tips & Variations
Add a twist: Try using mixed berries instead of just strawberries for a colorful update.
Make ahead: The creamy filling and crackle can be made a day ahead. Combine everything just before serving.
Low-sugar version: Use sugar-free Cool Whip and swap brown sugar with a sugar substitute if desired.
Why Everyone Loves It
No baking fuss: Just one short trip to the oven for the crackle layer.
Crowd-friendly: This makes a generous bowl perfect for parties.
Texture heaven: Crunchy, creamy, fresh, and airy—all in one bite.
Final Thoughts
Strawberry Crackle Salad is more than just a pretty dish—it’s comfort food disguised as a dessert salad. It’s playful, flavorful, and full of nostalgic joy. One bite and you’ll understand why it gets requested at every family gathering.
Save a scoop for yourself—this one disappears fast!
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