Lemon Pretzel Dessert Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Lemon Pretzel Dessert is a unique and irresistible combination of salty and sweet flavors that blend together perfectly. The crunchiness of the pretzel crust balances the creamy, zesty lemon topping, creating a delightful contrast in textures. The creamy layer made with cream cheese and whipped topping is smooth and light, while the pretzel layer gives it an added crunch. With minimal prep time and a simple set of ingredients, this dessert is easy to make yet looks impressive, making it a go-to treat for summer parties, holiday meals, or whenever you're craving something refreshing and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2½ cups pretzels, crushed

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• ⅔ cup brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons flour

• ½ cup butter, melted

• 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 8 ounces cool whip

• 22 ounces lemon pie filling

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

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

2. Crush the pretzels into small pieces using a food processor or a rolling pin.

3. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, vanilla extract, brown sugar, and flour. Stir well.

4. Melt the butter and add it to the pretzel mixture. Stir until everything is combined.

5. Spread the pretzel mixture evenly into a 9x13 baking dish, reserving ½ cup for the topping. Press the mixture into an even, smooth layer.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then allow it to cool completely.

7. While the crust cools, beat the cream cheese until smooth in a medium bowl. Add the powdered sugar and continue beating until combined.

8. Fold in the cool whip and mix gently until the cream cheese mixture is smooth.

9. Once the crust has cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture over the pretzel layer.

10. Top with the lemon pie filling, spreading it evenly over the cream cheese mixture.

11. Sprinkle the reserved pretzel mixture on top of the lemon filling.

12. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, for best results.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 8

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Cooling Time: 4 hours

• Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes

Variations

• Fruit Topping: You can swap out the lemon pie filling for other fruit fillings like blueberry, strawberry, or raspberry for a different flavor.

• Nuts: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the pretzel mixture for an extra crunch.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pretzels to make this dessert gluten-free.

• Whipped Cream: Instead of Cool Whip, you can use homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.

• Lemon Zest: For an even more intense lemon flavor, add lemon zest to the cream cheese filling or sprinkle it on top as a garnish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dessert will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: This dessert is best served cold and does not need reheating. If you prefer, you can let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to slightly soften the cream cheese layer.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of crust for this dessert?

Yes! If you don't have pretzels, you can use graham crackers or Nilla wafers for a different flavor base.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dessert actually tastes even better when made a day ahead, as the flavors have more time to meld together in the refrigerator.

Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of lemon pie filling?

Lemon pie filling is best for this recipe, but if you'd like a more natural flavor, you can make your own lemon curd and use that as a topping instead.

How do I crush the pretzels without a food processor?

Place the pretzels in a large zip-lock bag and crush them with a rolling pin until you achieve small pieces. You can also use a meat mallet.

How do I know when the crust is completely cooled?

The crust should be at room temperature before adding the cream cheese layer. It should feel firm and not warm to the touch.

Can I substitute regular cream cheese with a lighter version?

Yes, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly.

Is there a way to make this recipe less sweet?

You can reduce the amount of brown sugar in the pretzel crust or use less powdered sugar in the cream cheese layer for a less sweet taste.

How do I make this dessert look more festive?

Add some colorful fruit on top, like strawberries, blueberries, or kiwi slices, for a burst of color and a fresh touch.

Can I freeze this dessert?

Yes, you can freeze this dessert for up to one month. Just be sure to cover it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw it in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.

Can I use a different type of whipped topping?

You can substitute Cool Whip with another brand of whipped topping or even homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.

Conclusion

Lemon Pretzel Dessert is a delightful treat that combines the best of both sweet and salty worlds. Its easy-to-make nature, along with its tangy lemon filling and crunchy pretzel crust, makes it a perfect addition to any gathering. With its refreshing flavor and satisfying texture, this dessert is sure to become a go-to recipe for your summer parties or family get-togethers. Enjoy it chilled, and don't be surprised when your guests request it time and time again!

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