Peach Pretzel Salad

Peach pretzel salad is a delightful dessert that combines layers of sweet and salty flavors. This unique dish is perfect for any gathering, from family barbecues to elegant dinner parties. With its buttery pretzel crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and vibrant peach topping, this salad is sure to impress. It’s a refreshing option that stands out on any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this treat in no time.
• Flavorful Layers: The contrast of the crunchy pretzel base and creamy filling creates a delightful taste experience.
• Versatile Serving: Perfect as a side dish or dessert, it’s suitable for various occasions.
• Fresh Ingredients: Utilizing fresh peaches gives it a natural sweetness and bright color.
• No Gelatin Worries: Made without animal-derived gelatin, it remains suitable for many dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing your Peach Pretzel Salad requires some essential tools to ensure success. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 inch baking pan: This size is perfect for creating even layers while allowing ample space for the ingredients.
• Electric mixer: Ensures that your cream cheese mixture is smooth and free of lumps, making for a better texture.
• Rubber spatula: Great for folding in ingredients gently without deflating mixtures, especially when working with whipped cream.

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 butter, (melted)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar

For the Cream Cheese Layer

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

For the Peach Topping

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

How to Make Peach Pretzel Salad

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly butter the bottom and sides of your 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 your prepared pan evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Bake your pretzel base in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Once baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely.

Step 4: Mix the Cream Cheese Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese, remaining ¾ cup sugar, and vanilla until well combined. Gently fold in Cool Whip until everything is evenly mixed.

Step 5: Layer Cream Cheese Mixture

Spread that delicious cream cheese mixture over your cooled pretzel crust. Ensure it reaches all edges to create a barrier against the topping.

Step 6: Prepare the Peach Topping

In another medium bowl, dissolve peach gelatin in two cups of boiling water. After it’s fully dissolved, add two cups of ice water and stir well. Fold in diced peaches gently.

Step 7: Assemble & Chill

Carefully pour your peach mixture over the cream cheese layer. Cover with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least two hours or until set.

Slice into squares before serving your beautiful Peach Pretzel Salad! Enjoy this delightful treat at your next gathering!

How to Serve Peach Pretzel Salad

Peach Pretzel Salad is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways. Its creamy texture and fruity topping make it a perfect addition to any gathering. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Individual Servings

• Serve in small cups for easy handling at parties or picnics.
• Top with extra diced peaches for a fresh burst of flavor.

Family Style

• Present in the original baking dish for a casual family gathering.
• Garnish with whipped cream or mint leaves for an appealing look.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include Peach Pretzel Salad on a dessert platter alongside brownies and cookies.
• Slice into squares for easy serving and variety.

With Additional Toppings

• Add crushed nuts or granola on top for extra crunch.
• Drizzle with fruit syrup or honey for added sweetness.

How to Perfect Peach Pretzel Salad

To ensure your Peach Pretzel Salad turns out perfectly every time, consider these simple tips.

• Use Fresh Peaches: Fresh, ripe peaches will enhance the flavor and texture of your salad.
• Cool Completely: Make sure the pretzel crust cools completely before adding the cream cheese layer to prevent sogginess.
• Whip Cream Cheese Smoothly: Beat the cream cheese well to avoid lumps in the filling, ensuring a creamy consistency.
• Monitor Jello Thickness: Refrigerate the jello mixture just until it thickens slightly; this prevents it from running through the layers.
• Chill Well: Allow ample time in the refrigerator after assembling for the best set and flavor development.

Best Side Dishes for Peach Pretzel Salad

Peach Pretzel Salad pairs well with various side dishes that complement its sweet and creamy profile. Here are some great options to serve alongside it.

1. Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken adds protein and balances out the sweetness of the salad.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette offers freshness and contrast to the rich dessert.
3. Vegetable Platter: Crisp veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers provide a crunchy, healthy option.
4. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses can enhance flavors and provide savory bites alongside the sweet salad.
5. Fruit Skewers: Colorful fruit skewers are fun to eat and echo the fruity theme of the salad.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs and lemon offers a nutritious side that compliments well.
7. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes add heartiness without overpowering the dessert flavors.
8. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft garlic breadsticks provide a contrasting texture while being easy to share among guests.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Peach Pretzel Salad, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to watch for:

• Skipping the cooling step. Not allowing the pretzel crust to cool completely can make your salad soggy. Always let it cool before adding the cream cheese layer.
• Overmixing the cream cheese. If you beat the cream cheese too much, it can become too airy and affect the texture of your salad. Mix just until combined for a creamy consistency.
• Not spreading evenly. Failing to spread the cream cheese mixture all the way to the edges can lead to jello seeping down into the crust. Make sure it covers the entire base.
• Using boiling water incorrectly. Be cautious when adding ice water; if added too quickly, it may not mix well with the jello. Allow it to cool slightly before combining.
• Cutting too early. Slicing into the salad before the jello is fully set can ruin its appearance and texture. Patience is key here; let it chill fully!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Peach Pretzel Salad in an airtight container.
• It will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure it’s covered well to prevent drying out.

Freezing Peach Pretzel Salad

• This dessert is not ideal for freezing due to its creamy texture and jello topping.
• If necessary, freeze without the jello topping for up to a month.
• Thaw in the refrigerator before adding toppings.

Reheating Peach Pretzel Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes, but this dish is best served cold.
• Microwave: Heat a single serving on low power for about 20 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: This method isn’t suitable as it may alter textures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Peach Pretzel Salad.

Can I use other fruits in Peach Pretzel Salad?

Yes! You can substitute peaches with fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile.

How do I make Peach Pretzel Salad vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, replace cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use vegan whipped topping.

What can I serve with Peach Pretzel Salad?

Peach Pretzel Salad pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

How long does Peach Pretzel Salad last?

In proper storage, this dessert will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator before losing its freshness.

Final Thoughts

Peach Pretzel Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes it a great dessert choice for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize with various fruits or even try different flavored gelatin. We encourage you to give this recipe a try!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Peach Pretzel Salad

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves about 12 people 1x

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Description

Peach Pretzel Salad is a delightful dessert that beautifully balances sweet and salty flavors, making it the perfect addition to any gathering. With its crunchy pretzel crust, creamy cheesecake layer, and luscious peach topping, this dish is sure to impress your guests. Ideal for summer barbecues or elegant dinner parties, this no-bake treat is refreshingly light yet indulgent. You can easily whip it up using simple ingredients, and it’s a great way to showcase fresh peaches. Serve it chilled for a delicious end to any meal.

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Ingredients

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• 2½ cups crushed pretzels
• ¾ cup melted butter
• ¾ cup granulated sugar (divided)
• 12 ounces cream cheese
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 12 ounces Cool Whip
• 6 ounces peach vegan gelatin
• 4 cups peeled and diced fresh peaches
• 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 inch baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crushed pretzels, melted butter, and ¼ cup of sugar until combined. Press evenly into the bottom of the baking pan.
3. Bake for 10 minutes; remove from the oven and let cool completely.
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat together cream cheese, remaining sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Gently fold in Cool Whip.
5. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled pretzel crust.
6. To prepare the peach topping, dissolve peach gelatin in boiling water; add ice water and stir well. Fold in diced peaches gently.
7. Pour the peach 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 square (approximately 120g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 28g
• Sodium: 290mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 41g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 30mg