Description
This Blackberry Pretzel Dessert is a delightful layered treat featuring a crunchy pretzel crust, creamy sweetened cream cheese layer, and a vibrant blackberry Jell-O topping studded with fresh berries. Perfectly balanced between sweet and tangy with a refreshing finish of whipped topping and optional pretzel and berry garnishes, it’s a crowd-pleaser ideal for summer gatherings or anytime you want a no-fuss, make-ahead dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Pretzel Crust
- 2 cups crushed pretzels
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
Blackberry Jell-O Layer
- 1 (6 oz) package blackberry-flavored Jell-O
- 2 cups boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 2 cups fresh blackberries (or thawed frozen blackberries)
Topping and Garnish
- 1 cup whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
- Fresh blackberries (optional, for garnish)
- Pretzel pieces (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the pretzel crust.
- Prepare and Bake Crust: In a medium bowl, mix crushed pretzels, melted butter, and granulated sugar until well combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even crust layer. Bake for 10 minutes to set and lightly toast the crust, then allow it to cool completely before proceeding.
- Make Cream Cheese Layer: Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese together with the powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in 1 cup of whipped topping until fully incorporated. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust. Refrigerate this layer to keep it firm and ready for the next step.
- Prepare Blackberry Jell-O: Dissolve the blackberry-flavored Jell-O powder in 2 cups of boiling water, stirring until completely dissolved. Stir in 1/2 cup of cold water and let the solution cool slightly. Once cooled but not set, fold in the fresh (or thawed) blackberries. Pour this fruity gelatin mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer. Refrigerate the entire dish until the Jell-O is fully set.
- Add Final Topping and Serve: Spread the remaining 1 cup of whipped topping over the set Jell-O layer for a smooth finish. Garnish with fresh blackberries and pretzel pieces if desired. Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- Ensure the pretzel crust is completely cooled before adding the cream cheese layer to prevent melting or mixing.
- Use fresh or thawed frozen blackberries to maintain texture and flavor in the Jell-O layer.
- This dessert can be made a day ahead and refrigerated to save time.
- For a more intense berry flavor, add some blackberry jam to the cream cheese layer.
- Keep the dessert chilled until serving to maintain the layers and texture.
