Cherry Pretzel Squares

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Cherry Pretzel Squares are the kind of dessert that disappears quickly at gatherings. They combine the tangy sweetness of cherry pie filling with a crunchy, salty pretzel crust and a creamy, whipped filling that feels light but indulgent. It’s a nostalgic, no-bake crowd-pleaser that’s especially perfect for spring and summer.

Whether you’re making it for a picnic, potluck, or just a weekend treat, Cherry Pretzel Squares come together with simple ingredients and are irresistibly pretty. The red cherry topping gleams beautifully, layered over soft white cream and a crisp base that keeps its texture wonderfully.

Why You’ll Love This Cherry Pretzel Squares Recipe

This dessert is a dream for anyone who loves a balance of sweet and salty. The buttery pretzel crust is a crunchy contrast to the fluffy whipped layer and glossy cherries. It’s chilled, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make ahead of time. Plus, it cuts into perfect squares that hold their shape and look so cheerful on any dessert table.

What Kind of Pretzels Should I Use?

Go for small salted pretzels, like mini twists or sticks. They’re easy to crush and offer just the right saltiness for the crust. Avoid flavored or unsalted pretzels—you want that classic salty crunch to balance the sweet layers.

Ingredients for the Cherry Pretzel Squares

This layered dessert relies on just a few pantry staples and some chilled elements. The simplicity is part of its charm.

• Pretzels: Crushed finely to create a salty, crunchy base.
• Butter: Melted and mixed with pretzels to hold the crust together.
• Granulated Sugar: Used in both the crust and the whipped layer for balanced sweetness.
• Cream Cheese: Softened, it gives the filling a rich tang.
• Whipped Topping: Adds lightness and fluff to the creamy middle layer.
• Cherry Pie Filling: Sweet, fruity, and the star of the show.

How To Make the Cherry Pretzel Squares

Step 1: Prep the Pretzel Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and sugar. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for about 10 minutes. Let it cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Layer

In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped topping until combined. Spread this layer over the cooled pretzel crust, ensuring you reach the edges to seal it.

Step 3: Add the Cherry Topping

Carefully spoon the cherry pie filling over the cream layer, spreading it evenly. Chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours or until fully set.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

Cut into squares using a sharp knife. Wipe between cuts for clean edges. Serve cold and enjoy every creamy, crunchy, cherry-filled bite.

Serving and Storing Cherry Pretzel Squares

This dessert feeds around 12 to 16 people, depending on how generously you slice it. It’s best served chilled, straight from the fridge. The layers hold beautifully and deliver that perfect bite every time.

Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pretzel crust may soften slightly over time, but the flavor remains spot-on. Avoid freezing—the whipped layer doesn’t thaw well and can separate.

What to Serve With Cherry Pretzel Squares?

A Tall Glass of Iced Tea

The mild sweetness of iced tea pairs perfectly with the salty-sweet cherry layers.

Lemon Bars

Bright and tangy, they complement the cherry flavor beautifully.

BBQ Ribs or Chicken

Make it part of a summer BBQ spread to balance the savory mains.

Macaroni Salad

A creamy side that fits the picnic or potluck vibe.

Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream

Cold and refreshing, it makes a playful contrast in both temperature and taste.

Grilled Peaches

Simple and juicy, their natural sweetness enhances the fruitiness of the dessert.

Cheeseburger Sliders

Bring out a fun, casual feel that matches Cherry Pretzel Squares’ easygoing charm.

Cajun Potato Soup

If you’re serving this in colder months, something cozy like a spicy soup works surprisingly well【5†source】.

Want More Dessert Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these Cherry Pretzel Squares, here are some other playful and nostalgic favorites to explore:

• Strawberry Cinnamon Rolls with sweet fruit filling and a soft swirl.
• Delightful Strawberry Crunch Poke Cake for a vibrant, creamy treat.
• Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Mini Pies if you’re craving that candy bar twist.
• Mama Seward’s Iconic Strawberry Cake for old-school charm with big berry flavor.
• White Chocolate Orange Creamsicle Truffles for something cool, creamy, and citrusy.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go for classic cherries or try blueberries instead? Any tips or twists you added?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Cherry Pretzel Squares are the kind of dessert that hits all the right notes—crunchy, creamy, salty, and sweet. It’s easy to make, gorgeous to serve, and always leaves people asking for the recipe. Whether you’re enjoying them at a backyard party or just after dinner with family, these squares bring simple joy to any table.

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