If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as fun as it is delicious, meet your new favorite: Strawberry Crackle Salad!
Part sweet treat, part creamy salad, this nostalgic crowd-pleaser has it all — fresh, juicy strawberries, a cool and fluffy cream cheese filling, and the real star: a buttery, caramelized pretzel-pecan “crackle” that’s sweet, salty, and perfectly crunchy.
It’s the kind of dish that’s always the first to disappear at potlucks, family dinners, and backyard BBQs — and it’s secretly so simple to make.
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Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Crackle Salad
✔️ Addictive sweet & salty combo — everyone asks for seconds!
✔️ Perfect balance of creamy & crunchy — every bite is a texture dream.
✔️ Easy to make ahead — just mix right before serving.
✔️ Summer classic — ideal for cookouts, holidays, and potlucks.
✔️ Customizable — swap the strawberries for raspberries or blueberries if you like!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious, crackly dessert salad:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Crushed pretzels | 2 cups |
| Chopped pecans | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup |
| Butter (melted) | 1 cup |
| Sliced fresh strawberries | 4 cups |
| Cream cheese (softened) | 2 (8 oz) packages |
| Granulated sugar | ¾ cup |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons |
| Cool Whip | 16 oz |
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowls
- Baking sheet & parchment paper
- Electric mixer or hand mixer
- Rubber spatula
- Knife & cutting board
How to Make Strawberry Crackle Salad
1️⃣ Make the Pretzel Crackle
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mix 2 cups crushed pretzels, 1 cup chopped pecans, and 1 cup brown sugar.
- Pour 1 cup melted butter over the mixture and stir until well coated.
- Spread evenly on the lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, until bubbly and golden. Remove from oven and cool completely — it will crisp up as it cools! Once firm, break into small crunchy pieces.
2️⃣ Make the Creamy Layer
- In a large mixing bowl, beat 2 packages softened cream cheese, ¾ cup granulated sugar, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold in 16 oz Cool Whip until just combined. Cover and chill until ready to assemble.
3️⃣ Assemble & Serve
- Just before serving, stir 4 cups sliced strawberries into the cream mixture.
- Gently fold in the pretzel crackle pieces, saving a handful to sprinkle on top for extra crunch.
- Serve immediately so you keep that amazing crisp texture!
Pro Tips
🍓 Use ripe, sweet strawberries — they’re the star!
🥨 Don’t overmix the Cool Whip — keep it fluffy!
⏰ Mix just before serving — so the pretzel crackle stays crunchy.
🌿 Add a garnish — a few fresh mint leaves or extra berries make it pretty.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes — prep the crackle and cream layer a day ahead, then store separately. Assemble right before serving to keep the crunch.
Can I swap the fruit?
Absolutely! Try fresh raspberries, blueberries, or even chopped peaches.
What if I don’t have Cool Whip?
You can substitute with lightly sweetened whipped cream, but Cool Whip holds its texture longer.
Conclusion
Sweet strawberries, buttery crackle, fluffy cream — there’s just no way to resist this Strawberry Crackle Salad. Bring it to your next gathering and watch it disappear in minutes. It’s part dessert, part salad, and 100% delicious!
More Sweet, Crowd-Pleasing Favorites
- Strawberry Pretzel Salad Bars
- No-Bake Oreo Dessert
- Classic Banana Pudding
- Easy Pineapple Fluff Salad
Show Off Your Salad!
Did you make this Strawberry Crackle Salad? Snap a pic and tag #StrawberryCrackle on Pinterest or Instagram — I love seeing your sweet creations! 🍓✨