This Raspberry Pretzel Jello dessert is an awesome sweet and salty treat! It features a crunchy pretzel crust, fluffy cream cheese layer, and a bright raspberry jello topping that’s just yum!
Honestly, this dish is perfect for any gathering. People love the layers, and I can’t resist snagging extra bites. It’s a family favorite that always disappears fast! 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pretzels: Crushing traditional pretzels gives that lovely crunchy base. For a twist, try using gluten-free pretzels or even crushed cookies like gingersnaps for a different flavor profile!
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness. If needed, you can switch to coconut oil for a dairy-free option, but it may change the flavor slightly.
Cream Cheese: This provides that creamy layer. If you want something lighter, consider using low-fat cream cheese, or for a non-dairy version, try vegan cream cheese made from nuts.
Raspberry Gelatin: Raspberry jello gives the bright color and taste. If you want to skip gelatin, try using agar-agar for a vegetarian-friendly alternative or pick another flavor like strawberry!
How Do I Make Sure My Jello Sets Perfectly?
Setting the jello is crucial for the dessert’s success. Here’s how to do it right:
- After dissolving the gelatin in boiling water, allow it to cool slightly but don’t let it set before pouring.
- Make sure the cream cheese layer is completely cooled. If it’s warm, it can melt the gelatin.
- Refrigerate the whole dish for at least 4 hours. Overnight is even better, ensuring everything sets together nicely!
Adjusting the cooling times can help achieve the best texture, so be patient for the perfect outcome!
Raspberry Pretzel Jello
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 2 1/2 cups crushed pretzels (about 4 cups whole pretzels crushed)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For The Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz (1 package) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups cold heavy whipping cream
For The Jello Layer:
- 2 (3 oz) packages raspberry flavored gelatin (Jello)
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen raspberries
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep, plus around 10 minutes to bake, and then the dessert will need to chill for at least 4 hours. Total time from start to finish is around 4 hours and 25 minutes before you can dig in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Pretzel Crust:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. Then, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form a nice crust. Bake for about 10 minutes or until it sets. Once done, take it out and let it cool completely.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until it’s nice and smooth. Add in 1 cup of granulated sugar and beat again. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until you see stiff peaks. Now, gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until everything is combined and fluffy. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust.
3. Make and Add the Jello Layer:
In another bowl, dissolve the raspberry gelatin in 2 cups of boiling water by stirring until it’s all mixed and dissolved. Let the gelatin cool a bit but don’t let it set! Stir in the fresh or frozen raspberries, then gently pour this mixture over the cream cheese layer in your baking dish. Now, it’s time to refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours, or until the jello is all set and firm.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, you can garnish with extra pretzels and fresh raspberries around the cut slices if you want. Enjoy the deliciously refreshing flavors of this Raspberry Pretzel Jello treat!
Can I Use Other Flavors of Jello?
Absolutely! While raspberry is a classic choice, you can substitute with other flavors like strawberry or cherry for a fun twist. Just keep in mind the flavor of the jello will affect the overall taste of the dessert.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep in mind that the crust may soften over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh!
Can I Make This Dessert Gluten-Free?
Yes, simply replace the regular pretzels with gluten-free pretzels. The rest of the recipe remains the same, and you’ll still enjoy that delightful salty-sweet flavor!
What If My Jello Doesn’t Set?
If the jello doesn’t set properly, it might be due to not dissolving completely or using too much fruit. Ensure that you follow the package instructions for gelatin and use the correct proportion for the liquid. If you encounter issues, you can try adding a little more gelatin to help firm it up in future attempts!
