Description
These Cherry Pretzel Squares are the perfect no-bake dessert with a crunchy pretzel crust, creamy cheesecake-style center, and a tangy cherry topping. A favorite for potlucks, summer BBQs, and holidays, they deliver the ultimate balance of salty, sweet, and creamy in every bite.
Ingredients
2 cups crushed salted pretzels
3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
3 tablespoons granulated sugar (for crust)
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for filling)
8 ounces whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
1 can (21 ounces) cherry pie filling
1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Crush salted pretzels using a food processor or in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin.
3. Combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and 3 tablespoons sugar.
4. Press mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust.
5. Bake crust for 10 minutes, then cool completely.
6. Beat softened cream cheese with 1/2 cup sugar until fluffy.
7. Gently fold in the whipped topping until smooth and airy.
8. Spread cream cheese mixture over cooled crust, sealing all edges.
9. Spoon cherry pie filling evenly over the cream cheese layer.
10. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
11. Before serving, sprinkle chopped pecans on top (if using).
12. Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Notes
Let the crust cool fully before layering the filling to prevent melting.
Be sure to seal the cream cheese layer fully to keep the cherry topping from seeping down.
Chill thoroughly for the cleanest slices and best flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: cherry dessert, cream cheese bars, pretzel crust, no bake