The Peach Pretzel Jello Salad, also known as Summery Peach Bliss Pretzel Delight, embodies the quintessence of summer with its harmonious blend of crunchy, salty pretzels and lusciously sweet peaches set in a cool, peach-flavored gelatin. This dessert offers an irresistible combination that balances texture and flavor in every bite.
Not only is this dish a visual treat with its vibrant layers, but it’s also a testament to the creativity that can be brought to traditional desserts. The unique pretzel crust provides a delightful contrast to the creamy, soft filling, ensuring that each slice is a comprehensive taste experience. Perfect for summer gatherings, this dessert is sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire.
Summery Peach Bliss Pretzel Delight
Ingredients:
3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 (6-ounce) package peach-flavored gelatin
2 cups boiling water
1 1/2 cups cold water
1 (16-ounce) can sliced peaches, drained and chopped
1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 cups whipped topping
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and 3 tablespoons of sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then let it cool completely.
In a heatproof bowl, dissolve peach gelatin in boiling water. Stir in cold water and allow it to cool to room temperature.
In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar until smooth. Fold in the whipped topping.
Spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled pretzel crust, making sure to seal the edges to prevent the gelatin from leaking.
Carefully pour the peach gelatin mixture over the cream cheese layer. Add chopped peaches to the top.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until the gelatin is set.
Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Chilling Time: 4 hours | Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 12 servings
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Peach Pretzel Jello Salad
1. Can I use fresh peaches instead of canned? Yes, fresh peaches can be used in place of canned. Ensure they are ripe but firm, and you’ll need to peel and chop them before adding to the salad. The quantity remains the same: about 2 cups of chopped peaches.
2. What can I use if I don’t have peach-flavored gelatin? If peach-flavored gelatin is unavailable, you can substitute it with orange or strawberry-flavored gelatin for a different but equally delicious taste.
3. Can this recipe be made in advance? Yes, this dessert benefits from being made in advance as it needs time to set. You can prepare it up to 24 hours before serving, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for gatherings.
4. Is there a substitute for the whipped topping? For a less processed alternative, you can use the same amount of whipped cream. If you’re using heavy cream, whip it with a bit of sugar until stiff peaks form before folding it into the cream cheese mixture.
5. How do I store leftovers? Leftover Peach Pretzel Jello Salad should be covered with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3 days.
6. Can I make a gluten-free version of this dessert? To make this dessert gluten-free, use a gluten-free pretzel alternative for the crust. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the gelatin and whipped topping, are certified gluten-free.
7. What’s the best way to crush pretzels for the crust? The easiest way to crush pretzels is to place them in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin to crush them into small pieces. For a finer texture, you can pulse them in a food processor.
8. Can I use a different type of nuts instead of pretzels for the crust? Yes, a crust made from crushed almonds, pecans, or walnuts can also work well with this recipe, offering a gluten-free option and a different flavor profile.
9. How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy? Ensuring the pretzel crust is completely cooled before adding the cream cheese layer is key. Also, make sure the cream cheese layer completely covers the crust and reaches the edges of the pan to seal it off from the gelatin layer.
10. Can this recipe be halved or doubled? Absolutely. You can easily adjust the ingredient quantities to fit a smaller 8×8-inch pan for half the recipe or double the ingredients and use two 9×13-inch pans for a larger gathering.