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Patriotic Strawberry Pretzel Dessert Bars

Patriotic strawberry pretzel dessert bars with creamy cheesecake layer.
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These no bake bars feature a buttery pretzel crust, a creamy cheesecake layer, and a strawberry jello topping with fresh berries. Perfect for Fourth of July celebrations, they are make ahead friendly and a crowd pleasing dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups crushed pretzels (about 6 ounces)
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 8 ounces frozen whipped topping, thawed
  • 6 ounces strawberry jello (one large box)
  • 2 cups boiling water
  • 1 cup cold water
  • 1 pound fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Crush pretzels into fine crumbs with a few larger pieces. Mix with 3 tablespoons sugar and melted butter until moistened.
  2. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13 baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes. Let cool completely.
  3. Beat softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth and fluffy. Gently fold in thawed whipped topping. Spread evenly over cooled crust, sealing edges.
  4. Dissolve strawberry jello in 2 cups boiling water, stirring for 2 minutes. Add 1 cup cold water and stir. Refrigerate for 15 minutes until slightly thickened but still pourable.
  5. Arrange sliced strawberries and blueberries over cream cheese layer in a patriotic pattern. Carefully pour slightly thickened jello over fruit.
  6. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. Cut into squares and serve cold.

Notes

For best results, chill overnight. If jello gets too firm before pouring, microwave for 10 seconds and stir. Use gluten free pretzels for a gluten free version. For a lighter dessert, use reduced fat cream cheese and light whipped topping.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.stacksipsnack.com/patriotic-strawberry-pretzel-dessert-bars/