Name: Strawberry Crackle Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: PT-491975H10M42S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups crushed pretzels; 1 cup chopped pecans; 1 cup brown sugar; 1 cup butter, melted; 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 16 oz Cool Whip (whipped topping); 4 cups sliced strawberries

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Introduction

Strawberry Crackle Salad is a delightful combination of sweet, crunchy, and creamy textures that comes together quickly for a refreshing dessert or side dish. This no-bake treat features a buttery pretzel crust mixed with fresh strawberries and fluffy cream cheese filling. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or any occasion craving a nostalgic twist on a classic salad.

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with a layered dessert featuring fresh red strawberry pieces on top, scattered pecan nuts adding a crunchy texture, and a creamy white layer of whipped topping beneath the strawberries. The layers show a mix of bright red strawberry slices and smooth, fluffy white cream, with the pecans providing a rich brown contrast. A wooden spoon is partially visible on the right side of the bowl, all set against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups crushed pretzels
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup butter, melted
4 cups sliced strawberries
2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
16 oz Cool Whip

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, chopped pecans, and brown sugar. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is evenly coated.
Step 2: Spread the pretzel mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the mixture is bubbling and fragrant. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely. Once cooled, break the mixture into small pieces.
Step 3: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the Cool Whip until fully combined. Cover the bowl and refrigerate until you are ready to assemble the salad.
Step 4: Just before serving, fold the sliced strawberries and half of the pretzel crunch into the cream cheese mixture. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle the remaining pretzel crunch on top for extra texture. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, omit the pecans or substitute with sunflower seeds.
Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best natural sweetness. You can also try blueberries or raspberries as a variation.
Make the pretzel crunch a day ahead to save time, but keep it stored in an airtight container to maintain crispness.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The pretzel crunch may soften over time, so it’s best to enjoy the salad fresh. If needed, allow the salad to come to room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving to enhance flavors.

How to Serve

A white bowl sits on a wooden surface with a dessert made of three main layers. The bottom layer is soft white whipped cream mixed with fresh bright red strawberry slices that show their juicy texture. Above this is a thick layer of whole and halved strawberries, shining with a fresh, glossy look. The top layer is a mix of crunchy, toasted pecans and twisted pretzels, both golden brown, scattered generously and drizzled with a light caramel sauce. In the background, the surface is a white marbled texture with some blurred whole strawberries. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare most of the salad the day before and keep it refrigerated. However, it’s best to add the pretzel crunch just before serving to retain its crisp texture.

What can I substitute for Cool Whip?

You can use homemade whipped cream or any store-bought whipped topping as a substitute, but keep in mind that the texture and sweetness may vary slightly.