Peach Pretzel Salad

Peach pretzel salad is a delightful dessert that combines a buttery pretzel crust with a creamy cheesecake filling and a luscious peach jello topping. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or family gatherings, this dessert stands out for its unique textures and refreshing flavors. The combination of sweet peaches and the crunch of pretzels creates a delightful contrast that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This dessert comes together quickly with simple steps, making it perfect for any skill level.
• Deliciously Unique: The blend of creamy, crunchy, and fruity elements offers a refreshing twist that sets it apart from traditional desserts.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a holiday feast, peach pretzel salad is sure to please your guests.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare this dessert in advance so you can enjoy your event without the stress of last-minute cooking.

Tools and Preparation

To make peach pretzel salad, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 baking pan
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 baking pan: This size is perfect for layering your dessert ingredients evenly.
• Electric mixer: It helps achieve a smooth cream cheese mixture without lumps, ensuring the best texture.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for folding ingredients together gently without deflating your mixture.

Ingredients

Peach pretzel salad features a buttery pretzel crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a jello topping loaded with peaches.

For the Crust

• 2½ cups pretzels, (crushed)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup butter, (melted)

For the Filling

• 12 ounces cream cheese
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 12 ounces Cool Whip

For the Topping

• 6 ounces peach vegan gelatin
• 2 cups water, (boiling)
• 2 cups ice water
• 4 cups fresh peaches, (peeled and diced (about 4 to 5 large peaches))

How to Make Peach Pretzel Salad

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly butter the bottom and sides of a 9×13 pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Pretzel Crust

In a medium bowl, combine crushed pretzels, ¾ cup sugar, and melted butter. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared 9×13 pan. You can crush pretzels by putting them in a Ziploc bag and using a rolling pin or your hands.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Bake the pretzel base for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely before adding other layers.

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese, remaining ¾ cup sugar, and vanilla until well combined. Fold in Cool Whip until fully mixed.

Step 5: Layer the Filling

Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled pretzel crust. Ensure it reaches all edges to create a barrier against the jello layer.

Step 6: Prepare the Jello Topping

In another bowl, dissolve peach gelatin in two cups of boiling water. Once dissolved, add two cups of ice water and stir well. Gently mix in diced peaches. Refrigerate for about 15 minutes until it starts to thicken but hasn’t set completely.

Step 7: Assemble and Chill

Carefully pour the peach jello mixture over the cream cheese layer. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours or until fully set. When ready to serve, slice into squares. Enjoy!

How to Serve Peach Pretzel Salad

Peach pretzel salad is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or a summer picnic, these suggestions will enhance your presentation and taste.

Individual Servings

• Serve in small cups for easy handling at parties.
• Top each cup with a slice of peach for an attractive garnish.

Family Style

• Present the salad directly from the 9×13 pan to encourage casual serving.
• Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for added indulgence.

Breakfast Treat

• Serve slices alongside pancakes or waffles for a unique breakfast experience.
• Drizzle with maple syrup for sweetness.

Brunch Delight

• Offer as part of a brunch buffet along with other fruit salads and pastries.
• Complement with refreshing beverages like iced tea or lemonade.

How to Perfect Peach Pretzel Salad

Creating the ultimate peach pretzel salad involves attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh peaches – Fresh, ripe peaches will provide the best flavor and texture.
• Cool completely – Make sure the pretzel crust is completely cool before adding the cream cheese layer to avoid melting.
• Avoid sogginess – Spread the cream cheese mixture all the way to the edges of the crust to prevent jello from seeping through.
• Monitor jello thickness – Refrigerate jello until it begins to thicken but is not fully set before pouring over the cream cheese layer.
• Chill adequately – Allow enough time in the refrigerator for proper setting, ideally 2-4 hours.
• Store correctly – Keep leftovers covered in the fridge to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.

Best Side Dishes for Peach Pretzel Salad

Peach pretzel salad pairs well with several side dishes that complement its sweet and creamy flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Platter – A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balance.
2. Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Grilled Chicken Skewers – Tender chicken skewers seasoned well offer protein that complements the sweetness of the salad.
4. Vegetable Crudités – Crisp vegetables served with hummus make for a crunchy side option.
5. Caprese Salad Skewers – Mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes on skewers add a savory touch that pairs nicely with dessert.
6. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs can be a fun side that balances flavors.
7. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies provides texture and nutrition alongside your dessert.
8. Cheese Board – An assortment of cheeses can create an elegant pairing, offering savory bites between sweet layers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating a perfect Peach Pretzel Salad requires attention to detail. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Bold crust base: Not allowing the pretzel crust to cool completely can lead to a soggy bottom. Ensure it’s fully cooled before adding the cream cheese layer.
• Bold cream cheese mixture: Forgetting to spread the cream cheese mixture all the way to the edges can cause the jello to seep down and make it mushy. Spread it evenly for a barrier.
• Bold jello preparation: Adding fruit too early into the jello mixture can cause it to sink. Let the jello thicken slightly before folding in peaches.
• Bold serving size: Cutting the salad too soon can result in messy squares. Allow enough time for the jello to set properly for clean slices.
• Bold storage methods: Storing the salad improperly can affect its texture. Use an airtight container in the fridge for optimal freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Peach Pretzel Salad in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Peach Pretzel Salad

• Freezing is not recommended as it may change the texture of the jello and cream cheese layers.
• If necessary, store in an airtight container and consume within 2 months.

Reheating Peach Pretzel Salad

• Oven: This dish is best served cold, so reheating isn’t necessary.
• Microwave: You can warm individual portions on low power for a few seconds if preferred.
• Stovetop: Similar to microwave instructions, use low heat and stir gently if you want a softer texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Peach Pretzel Salad.

What is Peach Pretzel Salad?

Peach Pretzel Salad is a layered dessert with a pretzel crust, creamy filling, and peach jello topping. It’s refreshing and delicious!

How do I customize my Peach Pretzel Salad?

You can add different fruits like strawberries or blueberries or even mix in nuts for added crunch. Feel free to experiment!

Can I use fresh peaches instead of canned?

Yes! Fresh peaches are perfect for this recipe and provide great flavor and texture.

How long does it take for Peach Pretzel Salad to set?

After layering, refrigerate your salad for about 2 hours until the jello is firm.

Is there a vegan version of Peach Pretzel Salad?

Yes! Use plant-based cream cheese and vegan gelatin options to create a delicious vegan version of this dessert.

Final Thoughts

Peach Pretzel Salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor and texture. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various fruits or toppings, making it suitable for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its delightful combination of sweet, salty, creamy, and fruity elements!

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Peach Pretzel Salad

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Peach Pretzel Salad is a delightful and refreshing dessert that combines the crunch of a buttery pretzel crust with a creamy cheesecake filling and a sweet peach jello topping. This layered treat is perfect for picnics, potlucks, or family gatherings, offering an enjoyable contrast of textures and flavors that everyone will love. With its vibrant colors and delicious taste, this dessert is sure to be the star of your next event.

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Ingredients

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• 2½ cups crushed pretzels
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ cup melted butter
• 12 ounces cream cheese
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 12 ounces Cool Whip
• 6 ounces peach vegan gelatin
• 4 cups fresh peaches, peeled and diced
• 2 cups boiling water
• 2 cups ice water

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly butter a 9×13 baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crushed pretzels, ¾ cup sugar, and melted butter. Press into the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. Bake the crust for 10 minutes; let it cool completely.
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese with remaining sugar and vanilla until smooth. Fold in Cool Whip and spread over the cooled crust.
5. Dissolve peach vegan gelatin in boiling water; add ice water once dissolved. Stir in diced peaches and refrigerate for about 15 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Pour the jello mixture over the cream cheese layer. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours or until set.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 25g
• Sodium: 175mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg