Description
This delightful Lemon Pretzel Dessert features a crunchy pretzel crust combined with a creamy, tangy lemon topping layered over a smooth cream cheese filling. Perfect for a refreshing treat, it balances sweet and salty flavors with a luscious texture, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert for gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pretzel Crust:
- 2½ cups pretzels, crushed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 8 oz Cool Whip (or homemade whipped topping)
For the Lemon Topping:
- 1 can (21 oz) lemon pie filling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the pretzel crust.
- Prepare Pretzel Crust Mixture: Crush the pretzels into small bits, ensuring they are not too fine. In a bowl, combine the crushed pretzels with vanilla extract, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and melted butter, mixing thoroughly to blend all ingredients together.
- Form and Bake Crust: Firmly press the pretzel mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking pan to create an even layer. Bake it in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes until set and fragrant, then remove from oven and let it cool completely.
- Make Cream Cheese Layer: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue beating until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold the Cool Whip into the cream cheese mixture until well combined and fluffy, being careful not to deflate the whipped topping.
- Assemble Layer: Spread the prepared cream cheese layer evenly over the cooled pretzel crust, creating a smooth surface.
- Add Lemon Topping: Carefully spoon the lemon pie filling over the cream cheese layer and spread it out evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Chill Dessert: Cover the assembled dessert and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld and the dessert to set for the best texture and taste.
Notes
- Crushing pretzels into small pieces but not too fine helps maintain a satisfying crunch in the crust.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling.
- For best results, refrigerate the dessert overnight to allow it to fully set and flavors to develop.
- You can substitute Cool Whip with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
- This dessert should be served chilled and is best consumed within 2-3 days of preparation.
