Strawberry Crack Salad Recipe
Introduction
Strawberry Crack Salad is a delightful, creamy dessert that combines fresh strawberries with a crunchy, buttery pretzel and pecan mix. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients
- 2-3 cups strawberries, diced
- 1 (8 oz) tub of Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 cup pretzels, chopped
- ½ cup pecans, chopped
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ¾ cup melted butter
- 8 oz (1 package) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped pretzels, pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter. Stir well to coat all the pieces evenly.
- Step 2: Spread the pretzel mixture evenly onto a parchment-lined rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 7-9 minutes, stirring once halfway through to ensure even toasting. Remove from oven and let it cool completely.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and fluffy. Gently fold in the Cool Whip until fully combined and creamy.
- Step 4: Once the pretzel and pecan mixture is completely cooled, fold it along with the diced strawberries into the creamy base. Mix gently to keep the crunch intact.
- Step 5: Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best sweetness and texture.
- Swap pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
- For extra flavor, add a handful of mini chocolate chips or shredded coconut to the mix.
- Make sure the pretzel mixture is fully cooled before combining to avoid melting the cream cheese mixture.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the pretzel mixture will soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. Gently stir before serving if stored.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh strawberries, as frozen ones release extra moisture that can make the salad watery and affect the texture.
Is there a substitute for Cool Whip?
You can use whipped cream or a whipped topping of your choice as a substitute, but Cool Whip provides a stable texture that holds up well in this salad.
PrintStrawberry Crack Salad Recipe
Strawberry Crack Salad is a delightful dessert salad featuring a creamy, fluffy base combined with a crunchy mixture of pretzels, pecans, and brown sugar, all perfectly balanced with fresh diced strawberries. This easy-to-make treat offers a delicious blend of textures and flavors, ideal for summer gatherings or potlucks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Total Time: 24 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert Salad
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Crunch Topping
- 1 cup pretzels, chopped
- ½ cup pecans, chopped
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ¾ cup melted butter
Creamy Base
- 8 oz (1 package) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 (8 oz) tub Cool Whip, thawed
Fruit
- 2–3 cups strawberries, diced
Instructions
- Prepare the Crunch Topping: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped pretzels, chopped pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter. Stir thoroughly to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- Bake and Cool: Spread the mixture evenly onto a parchment-lined rimmed baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 7-9 minutes, stirring once halfway through to ensure even baking. Remove from oven and allow the crunchy mixture to cool completely.
- Make the Creamy Base: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. Then, gently fold in the thawed Cool Whip until fully combined and creamy. Set this mixture aside.
- Combine and Serve: Once the crunch topping has cooled, carefully fold the diced strawberries and the cooled pretzel-pecan mixture into the creamy base. Mix gently to preserve the crunch texture. Serve immediately for best texture and freshness.
Notes
- Ensure the pretzel and pecan mixture is completely cooled before adding to the cream base to maintain crunchiness.
- Chilling the assembled salad for 30 minutes can help meld flavors, though it is best served fresh.
- For a nut-free option, omit the pecans or replace with additional pretzels or seeds.
- You can substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
- Adjust sugar quantities to suit your taste preference.
Keywords: Strawberry Crack Salad, dessert salad, pretzel salad, creamy salad, summer dessert, no-bake dessert
