Linda Jackson'S Pretzel Salad

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

A sweet and salty pretzel salad with a crunchy crust, creamy filling, and fluffy topping, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or casual gatherings that love a mix of textures and flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups crushed pretzels
  • 1 1/2 sticks margarine
  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 (8 oz.) container Cool Whip

Instructions

  1. Make a crust of the crushed pretzels, melted margarine, and 3 tablespoons of sugar.
  2. Spread the pretzel mixture in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
  3. Bake for 10 minutes at 350°F and then cool.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer crust, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you want a sweeter crust, you can increase the sugar slightly. Ensure the pretzels are crushed finely for better adhesion. If you prefer a lighter texture, try using whipped cream cheese. This recipe is a fantastic twist on traditional desserts like Ants On A Stump.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Linda Jackson's Pretzel Salad chilled, topped with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with BBQ dishes or can be served as a refreshing dessert after a heavy meal. Consider accompanying it with a light fruit salad for a balanced meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pretzel crust may soften over time, so it's best enjoyed fresh. If you want to serve it later, try keeping the crust separate from the cream cheese layer until ready to serve to maintain its crunch.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Linda Jackson'S Pretzel Salad contains roughly 270 calories, with 3g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber.

270 kcal 13% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3g 6% DV
Total Fat 18g 23% DV
Carbs 26.3g 10% DV
Fiber 2.8g 10% DV
Sugar 0.9g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 190.2mg 8% DV
Potassium 169.5mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 3.4mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 11.5mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 26.5mg 29% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 21.9mg 2% DV
Iron 1.2mg 7% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, you can use regular whipped cream in place of Cool Whip. Just make sure to whip it until stiff peaks form to ensure the texture remains light and fluffy. This substitution will add a fresh, homemade taste to your pretzel salad.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the crushed pretzels with gluten-free pretzels. The rest of the ingredients are typically gluten-free, but always check labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs for a gluten-free lifestyle.

How long can I keep this dessert in the fridge?

Linda Jackson's Pretzel Salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, for the best texture, try to consume it within 1-2 days, as the pretzel crust may become soggy if left too long.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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