If you’re searching for the ultimate sweet-and-salty dessert, look no further than the Pretzel Cheesecake Dessert. This treat features a buttery, crunchy pretzel crust layered with smooth, tangy cheesecake filling, and a luscious topping of your choice—fruit preserves, caramel, or chocolate. Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or holidays, this no-bake (or lightly baked) dessert is as easy to make as it is delicious.
Ingredients
For the Pretzel Crust:
- 2 cups crushed pretzels
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Cheesecake Filling:
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup fruit preserves (strawberry, raspberry, or apricot recommended)
- OR
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce with a sprinkle of coarse sea salt
- OR
- 1/2 cup melted chocolate
Preparation
- Prepare the Crust:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until well combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish or a springform pan if you prefer a round cheesecake.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until golden and fragrant. Let it cool completely. - Make the Cheesecake Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and fluffy. - Assemble the Dessert:
Spread the cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled pretzel crust. Smooth the top with a spatula. - Add the Topping:
Spread fruit preserves, caramel sauce, or melted chocolate evenly over the cheesecake layer. For added texture, sprinkle with additional crushed pretzels or sea salt if using caramel. - Chill:
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for the best texture and flavor. - Serve:
Slice into squares or wedges and serve chilled.
Variation
- Mixed Berry Pretzel Cheesecake: Use a combination of blueberry and raspberry preserves for a vibrant, fruity topping.
- Chocolate Pretzel Delight: Add a chocolate layer over the pretzel crust before the cheesecake layer for an extra indulgent twist.
- Turtle Cheesecake Bars: Top with caramel, melted chocolate, and chopped pecans for a decadent take on turtle candy.
Cooking Note
- For a no-bake version, skip baking the crust. Simply chill the pretzel crust in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before adding the cheesecake layer.
- To crush pretzels, place them in a resealable plastic bag and use a rolling pin to break them into fine crumbs.
Serving Suggestions
This Pretzel Cheesecake Dessert is best served cold, making it an excellent dessert for hot summer days. Pair it with coffee, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or fresh fruit for a complete sweet-and-salty experience.
Tips
- Ensure the heavy cream is very cold before whipping for the best results.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for a creamier, richer filling.
- For extra crunch, reserve some pretzel crumbs and sprinkle them over the topping just before serving.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time)
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 380
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 25g
- Sodium: 330mg
FAQs
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
A: Yes, this dessert is even better when made a day ahead. The flavors meld beautifully after chilling overnight.
Can I use a store-bought crust?
A: While a homemade pretzel crust is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can substitute with a graham cracker crust in a pinch.
Can I freeze this dessert?
A: Yes, you can freeze it without the topping. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Add the topping after thawing.
Conclusion
The Pretzel Cheesecake Dessert is a delightful blend of sweet and salty that’s sure to satisfy any dessert lover. Its creamy filling, crunchy crust, and versatile topping options make it a hit at any gathering. Whip up this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe, and watch it disappear in no time!