Raspberry Pretzel Jello is a colorful dessert that combines sweet and salty flavors. It features a crunchy pretzel crust, creamy layers, and bright raspberry jello on top. Yum!
This dish is perfect for gatherings, and who could resist that delightful crunch mixed with fruity goodness? I usually make it for parties, and it always disappears fast! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pretzels: The base crust uses crushed pretzels for a nice salty crunch. If you want a gluten-free option, try gluten-free pretzels. I love the added flavor they bring!
Granulated sugar: Used both in the crust and the cream cheese layer. You can substitute with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative like Stevia if you’re looking for a healthier twist.
Unsalted butter: This adds richness to the crust. If you need a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or vegan butter.
Raspberry gelatin: Classic raspberry flavor is lovely, but feel free to switch to strawberry, cherry, or any berry-flavored Jello for a fun change!
Cream cheese: This gives the dessert its creamy layer. You can opt for low-fat cream cheese or a non-dairy cream cheese for a lighter version.
How Can I Get the Cream Cheese Layer Just Right?
The cream cheese layer is key to this dessert’s success. To achieve that perfect fluffy texture, here’s what you should do:
- Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature. This helps it blend smoothly without lumps.
- Beat the cream cheese and sugar together until creamy—this usually takes about 2–3 minutes with a hand mixer.
- Add the cold water slowly while mixing to keep the mixture smooth.
- Folding in the whipped topping gently is crucial. This keeps your cream cheese layer light and airy.
Remember, chilling for at least 30 minutes before adding the gelatin helps this layer set perfectly!
Raspberry Pretzel Jello
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 2 cups crushed pretzels
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Raspberry Layer:
- 2 (3 oz) packages raspberry flavored gelatin (Jello)
- 2 cups boiling water
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for cream cheese layer)
- 1 cup cold water (for cream cheese layer)
- 2 (8 oz) tubs frozen whipped topping, thawed
For Garnish:
- Fresh raspberries
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dessert will take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 2 to 4 hours for chilling. You’ll need some time for the layers to set—most of the waiting time is hands-off, so you can relax while it cools!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix the crushed pretzels, 1/2 cup sugar, and melted butter until everything is well combined. Then, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to make a nice crust. Bake it for about 10 minutes, and then allow it to cool completely.
2. Make the Raspberry Layer:
While the crust is cooling, take a separate bowl and dissolve the raspberry gelatin powder in 2 cups of boiling water. Stir the mixture well until the gelatin is completely dissolved, then set it aside to let it cool (but don’t let it set yet!).
3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar together until the mixture is creamy and smooth. Gradually add in 1 cup of cold water while mixing to combine everything nicely. Then, gently fold in one tub of thawed whipped topping until it’s all blended and fluffy.
4. Assemble the Layers:
Now, take the cooled crust and pour the cream cheese mixture over it, spreading it out evenly. Pop this into the refrigerator to chill until the cream cheese layer is set, which should take about 30 minutes.
5. Add the Raspberry Layer:
Once the cream cheese layer has set, carefully pour the cooled raspberry gelatin over the top. Make sure it’s evenly distributed. Put the dish back in the refrigerator and chill until the gelatin is firm, which can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Before you serve, add dollops of the remaining whipped topping on top and decorate with fresh raspberries for a pop of color. Cut into squares and enjoy this delicious, refreshing dessert that is sure to please everyone!
Enjoy your delicious Raspberry Pretzel Jello dessert—crunchy, creamy, and fruity all in one bite!
Can I Use Fresh Raspberries Instead of Gelatin?
While fresh raspberries add a lovely flavor, they can’t replace the gelatin, which provides the jello structure. You could make a fresh raspberry puree and stir it into the gelatin before it sets for a more intense raspberry flavor!
How Can I Make This Dessert Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crust, cream cheese layer, and raspberry layer the day before serving. Just make sure to keep it covered in the fridge to maintain freshness!
Can I Substitute Other Flavors of Jello?
Yes! Feel free to swap out raspberry gelatin for any other fruit-flavored gelatin like strawberry or cherry. Just adjust the garnish to match your new flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, try to keep the whipped topping separate to maintain its fluffy texture until you’re ready to enjoy the dessert again.
