Description
This refreshing Lemon Pretzel Dessert features a crunchy, salty pretzel crust topped with a creamy, sweet lemon filling, making it a delightful no-bake treat perfect for warm weather or any gathering. The combination of tangy lemon pie filling, smooth cream cheese, and fluffy whipped topping balances perfectly with the pretzel crust, creating a unique and irresistible dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Pretzel Crust
- 2 ½ cups crushed pretzels
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup salted butter, melted and cooled
Cream Cheese Layer
- 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 12 ounces whipped topping, thawed
Lemon Topping and Garnish
- 22 ounces lemon pie filling (e.g., Lucky Leaf brand)
- 4 ounces whipped topping, thawed (for garnish)
- ¼ cup crushed pretzels (for garnish)
- 1 medium lemon, thinly sliced into 12 slices (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- Make the Pretzel Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine 2 ½ cups of crushed pretzels with ½ cup granulated sugar. Add the melted and cooled butter, stirring until the mixture is well combined and holds together when pressed.
- Form and Bake the Crust: Press the pretzel mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, then remove and allow the crust to cool completely before adding the next layers.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer: Using a mixer, beat the softened cream cheese for 1 to 1½ minutes until smooth and creamy. Gradually add ¾ cup granulated sugar and continue mixing for an additional 2 minutes until fully incorporated and the mixture is silky.
- Fold in Whipped Topping: Gently fold 12 ounces of thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula, taking care to maintain the light and fluffy texture.
- Assemble the Cream Cheese Layer: Spread the cream cheese and whipped topping mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust with a spatula for a smooth layer.
- Add the Lemon Topping: Spoon the 22 ounces of lemon pie filling over the cream cheese layer. Spread it evenly to cover the entire surface for a bright citrus flavor contrast.
- Chill the Dessert: Cover the assembled dessert loosely with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the layers to set properly; overnight chilling is recommended for best results.
- Serve with Garnish: Before serving, slice the dessert into 12 portions. Garnish each slice with extra whipped topping, crushed pretzels, and optionally a thin lemon slice for an attractive presentation and added zest.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth filling without lumps.
- Use salted butter in the crust to balance the sweetness with a hint of salt.
- Chilling time is crucial to let the dessert set properly and enhance the flavors.
- For a tangier flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese layer.
- This dessert is best served chilled and consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
