Description
A delightful layered Blackberry Pretzel Dessert featuring a crunchy baked pretzel crust, creamy sweetened cream cheese topping, and a fresh blackberry preserve layer. Perfectly chilled, this American-style dessert balances sweet, tart, and salty flavors for a refreshing treat ideal for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust:
- 2 cups crushed pretzels
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
Blackberry Topping:
- 2 cups fresh blackberries
- 1 cup blackberry preserves or jam
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
- Prepare and Bake Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until well blended. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and allow to cool completely.
- Make Cream Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until fully combined. Gently fold in the whipped topping until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Assemble Cream Cheese Layer: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust. Be sure to seal the edges well to prevent the topping from seeping through the crust.
- Prepare Blackberry Topping: In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the blackberry preserves along with the water, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and carefully fold in the fresh blackberries. Let the mixture cool slightly.
- Top and Chill: Spoon the blackberry topping evenly over the cream cheese layer. Cover the dish and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until fully set, before serving.
Notes
- For a firmer top layer, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with the preserves before heating.
- You can substitute fresh blackberries with raspberries or blueberries for variety.
- Best served cold and consumed within 2–3 days for optimal freshness.
