Go Back
+ servings
Strawberry Crackle Salad

Strawberry Crackle Salad That Will Wow Your Guests

A delightful Strawberry Crackle Salad combines sweet strawberries, creamy cheese, and a crunchy topping for a perfect summer dessert.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Crunchy Topping
  • 2 cups crushed pretzels Add a salty, crunchy base; substitute crushed graham crackers for a sweeter touch.
  • 1 cup chopped pecans Provides rich flavor and additional crunch; walnuts can replace them or skip entirely.
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar Enhances sweetness and depth; both light and dark varieties work.
  • 1/2 cup butter Melted butter binds the mixture; choose salted butter for more flavor.
For the Creamy Base
  • 4 cups sliced strawberries The star fruit; opt for ripe, fresh strawberries.
  • 8 oz cream cheese Must be softened for easy blending.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Balances the tanginess of the cream cheese.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract Can be substituted with almond extract for a unique twist.
  • 8 oz Cool Whip Adds a light, fluffy texture; whipped cream works as a substitute.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • baking sheet
  • Parchment paper

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Combine crushed pretzels, chopped pecans, and brown sugar in a large bowl. Mix in melted butter until coated.
  3. Spread the mixture onto the baking sheet and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until bubbly and golden. Cool completely.
  4. In a separate bowl, beat softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Fold in Cool Whip.
  5. Fold in the sliced strawberries gently to maintain fluffiness.
  6. Layer the creamy mixture in a serving dish and top with two-thirds of the pretzel crunch, then sprinkle the rest before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

Ensure cream cheese is softened for smooth consistency. Store prepared salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep crunchy topping separate to prevent sogginess.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!