Caitlin Bensel; Food Styling: Torie Cox
This dessert has stirred up some debate. Not because of its taste, but because it’s often labeled as a salad rather than a dessert.
Yes, we’re referring to Strawberry Pretzel Salad. The term “salad” used in this instance is quite generous. It belongs to a group of molded side dishes made with ingredients such as Jell-O, cream cheese, canned fruit, and frozen whipped topping.
While Strawberry Pretzel Salad is prepared in a 9×13 pan, it’s a throwback to vintage Jell-O recipes. Despite being enjoyed by many as a dessert, don’t be surprised to find it lined up alongside the veggies at your next holiday gathering.
What Is Strawberry Pretzel Salad?
This vibrant dish features layers starting with a pretzel crust. Similar to a graham cracker base for a cheesecake, crushed pretzels, sugar, and melted butter provide the foundation. This is followed by a creamy cheese layer lightened with whipped topping (or freshly whipped cream). The top layer consists of Jell-O with frozen or fresh strawberries mixed in. We recommend using frozen strawberries for a classic taste, but fresh ones work too if you have them.
After chilling, the finishing touch is a sweetened sour cream layer sprinkled with chopped pecans. The dish offers a mix of saltiness, sweetness, and tanginess. It might seem like a lot of components, but it’s relatively simple to assemble and doesn’t call for hard-to-find ingredients.
The only challenge is waiting for the Jell-O layer to set completely, which takes about eight hours. However, once chilled, this dessert is a hit as it can serve a large group with ease.
Where Did Strawberry Pretzel Salad Originate?
It is believed to have originated from the Joys of Jell-O Gelatin Dessert, a promotional cookbook released by the gelatin company in 1961. The cookbook, which received annual updates throughout the 1960s, served as a marketing tool for Jell-O. It was used to educate consumers on various ways to incorporate gelatin into their cooking, including in this particular “salad.”
While many other Jell-O salads and molds have faded in popularity, Strawberry Pretzel Salad has endured, becoming a staple at Southern potlucks, holiday tables, and gatherings. It’s not limited to the South, as it has gained popularity in other regions as well, particularly in the Midwest.
Whether served alongside ham or as a post-dinner treat, this retro salad is sure to satisfy, even if it doesn’t count as a serving of fruits and vegetables.
