Description

This Pineapple Pretzel Salad is the ultimate sweet and salty dessert! 🥨🍍 A buttery pretzel crust, a light and creamy cheesecake layer, and a refreshing pineapple Jell-O topping come together to create a dessert that’s perfect for holidays, BBQs, and summer gatherings. It’s easy to make and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

For the Pretzel Crust:

Crushed pretzels – Adds the perfect salty crunch.
Salted butter – Binds the crust and enhances flavor.
Granulated sugar – Adds a slight sweetness to balance the saltiness.

For the Pineapple Topping:

Water – Used to dissolve the Jell-O.
Pineapple Jell-O – Brings tropical flavor and vibrant color.
Crushed ice – Helps set the Jell-O quickly.
Crushed pineapple in syrup – Adds real fruit flavor and texture.

For the Creamy Layer:

Whipped topping – Light and fluffy for a smooth texture.
Cream cheese – Adds richness and a slight tang.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the creamy filling.

Optional Garnishes:

Pineapple tidbits – Extra pineapple goodness on top.
Fresh mint leaves – A bright, refreshing touch.

Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Pretzel Crust

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix crushed pretzels, melted butter, and sugar in a bowl.
Press into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 10 minutes.
Cool completely before adding layers.

2️⃣ Make the Pineapple Jell-O Layer

Boil 1 cup water and dissolve Pineapple Jell-O in it.
Add 1 cup crushed ice and stir until melted.

3️⃣ Prepare the Pineapple

Drain crushed pineapple thoroughly, pressing out excess liquid.
Stir the pineapple into the Jell-O mixture and refrigerate for 15 minutes to slightly set.

4️⃣ Make the Creamy Layer

Beat cream cheese, whipped topping, and sugar until smooth and fluffy.
Spread evenly over the cooled pretzel crust.

5️⃣ Assemble & Chill

Carefully spoon the partially set pineapple Jell-O over the cream cheese layer.
Cover and chill for 4-6 hours (or overnight) until firm.

6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!

Slice into squares and garnish with extra whipped topping, pineapple tidbits, and fresh mint leaves, if desired.

Notes

For a Crunchy Crust – Bake the crust for only 10 minutes to avoid sticking.
Drain Pineapple Well – This prevents the Jell-O layer from being too watery.
Chill for Best Results – The longer it chills, the better the texture.
No Pineapple Jell-O? – Use plain gelatin (5 tsp) and pineapple juice instead!

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 561 kcal
Sugar: 59g
Sodium: 509mg
Fat: 29g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 74g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 72mg

Keywords: pineapple pretzel salad, pineapple jello pretzel salad, sweet and salty dessert, summer dessert, tropical pretzel salad, no-bake pineapple dessert