Pretzel Cheese Cake Dessert
A creamy, sweet and salty pretzel crust cheesecake layered with cherry pie filling and topped with crushed pretzels, perfect for a crowd or special dessert occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix crushed pretzels, oleo, and sugar together.
- Line the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan with the pretzel mixture, saving some for topping.
- Prepare Dream Whip according to package directions.
- Refrigerate the prepared Dream Whip mixture.
- Mix cream cheese and powdered sugar, then fold in the prepared Dream Whip.
- Spread the cream cheese and Dream Whip mixture over the pretzel crust.
- Cover with 32 ounces of cherry pie filling.
- Sprinkle remaining crushed pretzels on top.
- Refrigerate the dessert for 24 hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding some crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts to the pretzel crust. You can substitute the Dream Whip with whipped cream for a richer texture if desired. If you prefer a less sweet dessert, reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the cream cheese mixture. This recipe also works well as individual servings in parfait glasses.
Serving Suggestions
This dessert is best served chilled, making it a perfect summertime treat. Consider garnishing each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh cherries for an extra touch. It pairs beautifully with other American recipes like Aunt Debbie's Cracker Barrel Pie for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Pretzel Cheese Cake Dessert in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing as the texture may change. When ready to serve, simply scoop out portions; no reheating is necessary.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pretzel Cheese Cake Dessert contains roughly 656 calories, with 12g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (34% of the Daily Value) and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 527mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
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 make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, this dessert is ideal for making ahead. It needs to chill for at least 24 hours, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Prepare it a day in advance for the best results.
What can I use instead of Dream Whip?
You can substitute Dream Whip with homemade whipped cream. Simply whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar until it forms soft peaks. This will give your dessert a creamier texture.
Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pretzels to create the crust. There are many brands available that provide the same crunch and flavor, allowing those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy this delicious dessert.
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).