Blackberry Pretzel Dessert

Why You’ll Love Blackberry Pretzel Dessert Recipe

This dessert is irresistible because of the unique blend of textures and flavors. The salty crunch of the pretzel crust complements the creamy sweetness of the filling, while the tartness of the blackberries adds a refreshing contrast. The combination of these elements creates a dessert that’s satisfying in every bite. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for entertaining or enjoying as an everyday treat.

Ingredients

• 2 cups crushed pretzels

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1 small tub of whipped topping (about 8 oz)

• 1 package (6 oz) blackberry gelatin

• 2 cups boiling water

• 2 cups fresh blackberries

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Pretzel Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium-sized bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until the pretzels are well coated. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form an even crust. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.

2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped topping. Once the pretzel crust has cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust, covering it completely.

3. Prepare the Blackberry Gelatin: In a bowl, dissolve the blackberry gelatin in boiling water. Stir until fully dissolved. Allow it to cool to room temperature, then gently stir in the fresh blackberries.

4. Assemble the Dessert: Pour the blackberry gelatin mixture over the cream cheese layer in the baking dish. Ensure the blackberries are evenly distributed.

5. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the gelatin to set completely. Once set, cut into squares and serve chilled.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16

• Prep Time: 25 minutes

• Chilling Time: 4 hours (or overnight)

Variations

• Fruit Options: You can swap blackberries with other berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a different flavor profile.

• Crust Variation: For a twist, try using graham cracker crumbs instead of pretzels for a different crust flavor.

• Sweetness Level: If you prefer a sweeter dessert, increase the sugar in the crust and cream cheese layers slightly, adjusting to your taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep the dessert refrigerated in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: This dessert is not recommended for freezing as the gelatin and cream cheese layers do not freeze well and may become watery upon thawing.

• Reheating: This dessert is served chilled, so there’s no need to reheat it. Just remove it from the refrigerator 10-15 minutes before serving if you want to soften the texture slightly.

FAQs

How long does this dessert need to chill?

For best results, refrigerate the dessert for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This allows the gelatin to set properly.

Can I use frozen blackberries?

Yes, you can use frozen blackberries. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the gelatin.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dessert actually improves in flavor if made a day ahead, as the layers have more time to set and the flavors meld.

How do I know when the gelatin has set?

The gelatin will firm up after about 4 hours in the fridge. You’ll know it’s set when the top is firm to the touch, and it no longer jiggles when gently shaken.

Can I use a different type of gelatin?

Yes, you can substitute the blackberry gelatin with other fruit-flavored gelatin, like raspberry or strawberry, for a different taste.

How do I crush the pretzels?

You can crush the pretzels using a food processor, or place them in a sealed bag and crush them with a rolling pin.

Can I make this dessert in a different-sized pan?

You can make this dessert in a different-sized pan, but be sure to adjust the crust and filling proportions accordingly. If using a smaller pan, increase the layers; if using a larger pan, you may need to reduce the amount of filling.

How do I make the crust crispier?

To make the pretzel crust crispier, you can bake it for a few extra minutes until golden, but be careful not to burn it.

Is this dessert gluten-free?

No, this dessert is not gluten-free due to the pretzel crust. You can substitute gluten-free pretzels if needed for a gluten-free version.

Can I use Cool Whip instead of whipped topping?

Yes, Cool Whip can be used instead of whipped topping, and it will give the dessert a similar light and fluffy texture.

Conclusion

This Blackberry Pretzel Dessert is a delightful treat that combines a variety of textures and flavors, making it an unforgettable addition to your dessert table. The crunchy pretzel crust, creamy filling, and sweet blackberry topping are a winning combination that everyone will love. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dessert is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.