Description
This Strawberry Pretzel Salad Parfaits recipe is a delightful no-bake dessert combining sweet, tangy strawberries with a crunchy, buttery pretzel crust and a luscious whipped cream topping. Perfect for a quick treat or a festive occasion, these parfaits layer diced strawberries, pretzel crumbs, and creamy whipped topping for a refreshing and satisfying dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Strawberries
- 12-14 fresh strawberries
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- Cinnamon (to taste)
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
- Imitation strawberry extract (1/2 tsp)
Pretzel Crust
- 1 ½ cups mini pretzels
- 2 tbsp butter
Whipped Cream
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp light brown sugar
Instructions
- Prepare Strawberries: Dice the fresh strawberries into small pieces, sprinkle them with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to macerate and release their juices.
- Make Pretzel Crust: Pulse the mini pretzels in a food processor until chunky but not finely ground. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter and mix it thoroughly with the pretzel crumbs along with a pinch of cinnamon to add subtle warmth and spice.
- Whip Cream: In a chilled mixing bowl, whip 1 cup of heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the combined 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon imitation strawberry extract to infuse flavor and sweetness.
- Layer Parfaits: In serving cups, begin by adding a layer of the whipped cream mixture, followed by a layer of macerated strawberries, and then a layer of the pretzel crust mixture. Repeat the layering once more to build a parfait.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish by topping the parfaits with an extra dollop of whipped cream, sliced fresh strawberries, and some pretzel pieces for a visually appealing and textural contrast.
Notes
- For best results, chill the whipped cream bowl and beaters before whipping to help achieve stiff peaks more easily.
- You can substitute imitation strawberry extract with fresh strawberry puree for a natural flavor.
- Use mini pretzels for easier processing; if unavailable, break regular pretzels into small pieces before pulsing.
- The dessert is best served immediately but can be refrigerated for up to 2 hours before serving.
- Adjust sugar levels based on the sweetness of strawberries and personal preference.
