Sugar Free Pretzel Salad

The Sugar Free Pretzel Salad is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Growing up, I remember family gatherings filled with laughter, storytelling, and of course, the irresistible aroma of homemade desserts wafting through the air. This unique salad was always the star on our dessert table, but I wanted to create a version that everyone could enjoy without the added sugar. Let me tell you, this Sugar Free Pretzel Salad captures the essence of that cherished dish while keeping it light and guilt-free. Imagine a crunchy pretzel crust layered with creamy goodness, topped with vibrant fruit – it’s a treat that will take you down memory lane! Whether it’s a summer picnic or a cozy family dinner, this salad is bound to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings.

Ingredients for Sugar Free Pretzel Salad

The ingredients for the Sugar Free Pretzel Salad are a harmonious blend that creates a fantastic dessert. Each ingredient plays a vital role in achieving the right flavor and texture. The key players include the crushed pretzels for that crunch and buttery richness, cream cheese for a creamy, luscious base, and fruit toppings that bring a refreshing sweetness. Together, they create a perfect balance that makes this dessert so irresistible.

• ¾ cup salted butter (170 grams, melted): This adds richness to the crust, helping it hold together while providing a buttery flavor.
• 2 cups crushed pretzels (120 grams): The star of the crust, these add crunch and a salty contrast to the creamy layers above.
• 3 tablespoons Stevia (4.5 grams): A natural sweetener that replaces traditional sugars without compromising sweetness.
• 8 ounces low fat cream cheese (227 grams): Provides a creamy and tangy base for the middle layer.
• ¾ cup Stevia (18 grams): Used to sweeten the cream cheese layer, ensuring it remains sugar-free.
• 8 ounces sugar free whipped topping (226 grams): Lightens the cream cheese layer with a fluffy texture.
• 2 cups water (454 grams): Used to prepare the gelatin layer, helping to set the dessert.
• 0.6 ounces sugar free strawberry gelatin mix (17 grams, 2 packages): Adds color and flavor to the fruit topping without added sugars.
• 14 ounces frozen strawberries (397 grams, with no sugar added): Provides a fruity, sweet layer that complements the cream cheese.
• 8 ounces crushed pineapple in 100% juice (227 grams, 1 can, drained): Adds tropical sweetness to the topping, enhancing the overall flavor.
• sugar-free whipped topping (optional, for garnish): Use this for a decorative and tasty finish.

Instructions for Sugar Free Pretzel Salad

Making the Sugar Free Pretzel Salad is a fun and rewarding experience! You’ll love how straightforward the steps are, making it easy for anyone to follow. Let’s dive into each step and create this delicious dessert together.

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure it’s fully heated, so the crust turns out perfectly. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking, and set it aside.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the melted butter, crushed pretzels, and 3 tablespoons of Stevia. Make sure everything is well combined, and you’ll notice the mixture starting to clump together. This will create a sturdy base for your dessert.
3. Pour the pretzel mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use your hands or a spatula to press it down firmly, creating an even layer that covers the bottom of the dish. The crust should be thin but packed well to hold the layers above.
4. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the crust for about 7 to 8 minutes. You want it to be golden brown but not overly crispy. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely.
5. While the crust is cooling, it’s time to prepare the cream cheese layer. In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer with the paddle attachment to beat together the cream cheese and ¾ cup of Stevia. Mix until the cream cheese is smooth and creamy. You should be able to achieve a fluffy consistency.
6. Next, stir in the sugar-free whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture. Gently fold it until it’s fully incorporated, and you have a smooth, light mixture that will layer beautifully over your pretzel crust.
7. Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled pretzel crust, using a spoon or an offset spatula to spread it evenly. Make sure to create a smooth, even layer; this will be the base for the fruity topping.
8. Place the baking dish in the refrigerator to chill for about 30 to 60 minutes. This will allow the cream cheese layer to set slightly before adding the gelatin topping.
9. Now, let’s prepare the gelatin layer! In a small saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, remove it from the heat and stir in the gelatin mix. Let it cool for about 10 minutes, which will help prevent it from melting the cream cheese layer when added.
10. After the gelatin has cooled, stir in the frozen strawberries and crushed pineapple. The combination of these fruits will add a refreshing burst of flavor to the topping.
11. Carefully pour the strawberry and pineapple mixture over the cream cheese layer. Ensure it’s spread evenly so that each slice will have plenty of fruity goodness.
12. Return the baking dish to the refrigerator and allow the salad to chill for 6 to 8 hours, or until the gelatin is fully set. Patience is key here!
13. Once it’s set, slice the Sugar Free Pretzel Salad into squares and serve with a dollop of sugar-free whipped topping and sliced strawberries for garnish. Enjoy!

Helpful Notes about Sugar Free Pretzel Salad

When preparing the Sugar Free Pretzel Salad, here are some handy tips to ensure it turns out perfectly. Each tip contributes to a better flavor and presentation!

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain good for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the salad for up to a month. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge before serving again.
• Pairing: This salad pairs well with fruits like strawberries and blueberries, enhancing the fresh fruit taste.
• Serving Size: Cut into smaller squares for a delightful dessert bite that’s perfect for gatherings.
• Variations: Feel free to mix in other fruits like bananas or sliced peaches for a unique twist.

What to Pair With Sugar Free Pretzel Salad

• Light Lunch or Dinner: This salad makes a lovely addition to a light lunch or dinner spread, especially during warmer months.
• Family Gatherings: Serve it at family gatherings or potlucks as a unique dessert option. It’s sure to catch everyone’s eye!
• Seasonal Events: Great for summer barbecues or holiday dinners, bringing a cheerful and colorful element to your table.
• Picnics: Pack it for picnics where its cool, refreshing flavors can be enjoyed outdoors.
• Contrast with Savory Dishes: Pair this dessert with savory dishes like grilled chicken or veggie platters for a balanced meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Sugar Free Pretzel Salad is a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that makes it a standout dessert. It’s perfect for those who crave something sweet without the guilt. I encourage you to try this recipe today and bring a touch of nostalgia and joy to your table!

Sugar Free Pretzel Salad

A refreshing twist on a classic dessert, this Sugar Free Pretzel Salad brings together crunchy pretzels, creamy cheese, and fruity toppings. Perfect for any occasion, it's easy to make and healthy too!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 12 servings

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

• Kitchen Scale
• 9×13 baking pan
• Hand Mixer
• Stand mixer

Ingredients

  

• ¾ cup salted butter 170 grams, melted
• 2 cups crushed pretzels 120 grams (about 4 cups before crushing)
• 3 tablespoons Stevia 4.5 grams (or 38 grams granulated sugar)
• 8 ounces low fat cream cheese 227 grams
• ¾ cup Stevia 18 grams (or 150 grams granulated sugar)
• 8 ounces sugar free whipped topping 226 grams
• 2 cups water 454 grams
• 0.6 ounces sugar free strawberry gelatin mix 17 grams (2 packages)
• 14 ounces frozen strawberries 397 grams, with no sugar added
• 8 ounces crushed pineapple in 100% juice 227 grams (1 can), drained
• sugar-free whipped topping optional, for garnish

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure it’s fully heated, so the crust turns out perfectly. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking, and set it aside.
• In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the melted butter, crushed pretzels, and 3 tablespoons of Stevia. Make sure everything is well combined, and you’ll notice the mixture starting to clump together. This will create a sturdy base for your dessert.
• Pour the pretzel mixture into the prepared baking dish. Use your hands or a spatula to press it down firmly, creating an even layer that covers the bottom of the dish. The crust should be thin but packed well to hold the layers above.
• Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the crust for about 7 to 8 minutes. You want it to be golden brown but not overly crispy. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely.
• While the crust is cooling, it’s time to prepare the cream cheese layer. In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer with the paddle attachment to beat together the cream cheese and ¾ cup of Stevia. Mix until the cream cheese is smooth and creamy. You should be able to achieve a fluffy consistency.
• Next, stir in the sugar-free whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture. Gently fold it until it's fully incorporated, and you have a smooth, light mixture that will layer beautifully over your pretzel crust.
• Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled pretzel crust, using a spoon or an offset spatula to spread it evenly. Make sure to create a smooth, even layer; this will be the base for the fruity topping.
• Place the baking dish in the refrigerator to chill for about 30 to 60 minutes. This will allow the cream cheese layer to set slightly before adding the gelatin topping.
• Now, let’s prepare the gelatin layer! In a small saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, remove it from the heat and stir in the gelatin mix. Let it cool for about 10 minutes, which will help prevent it from melting the cream cheese layer when added.
• After the gelatin has cooled, stir in the frozen strawberries and crushed pineapple. The combination of these fruits will add a refreshing burst of flavor to the topping.
• Carefully pour the strawberry and pineapple mixture over the cream cheese layer. Ensure it's spread evenly so that each slice will have plenty of fruity goodness.
• Return the baking dish to the refrigerator and allow the salad to chill for 6 to 8 hours, or until the gelatin is fully set. Patience is key here!
• Once it’s set, slice the Sugar Free Pretzel Salad into squares and serve with a dollop of sugar-free whipped topping and sliced strawberries for garnish. Enjoy!

Notes

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain good for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the salad for up to a month. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge before serving again.
• Pairing: This salad pairs well with fruits like strawberries and blueberries, enhancing the fresh fruit taste.
• Serving Size: Cut into smaller squares for a delightful dessert bite that’s perfect for gatherings.
• Variations: Feel free to mix in other fruits like bananas or sliced peaches for a unique twist.

Keyword healthy snacks, Light Desserts, Pretzel Dessert, Sugar Free Salad