Lemon Pretzel Dessert Recipe
Introduction
This Lemon Pretzel Dessert is a delightful combination of salty and sweet flavors with a refreshing lemon twist. It’s easy to make and perfect for a quick, no-bake treat that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- Pretzels (enough to make a crust)
- Butter (melted)
- Cream cheese (softened)
- Sugar
- Lemon pudding mix
- Whipped topping
Instructions
- Step 1: Crush the pretzels and combine them with melted butter, then press the mixture into the bottom of a baking dish to form a crust. Bake it until set and slightly golden.
- Step 2: Prepare the cream cheese mixture by beating softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust.
- Step 3: Prepare the lemon pudding according to the package instructions. Pour the pudding over the cream cheese layer, then spread whipped topping on top.
- Step 4: Refrigerate the dessert for several hours or overnight until fully chilled and set before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use a food processor to crush pretzels evenly for a better crust texture.
- Substitute lemon pudding with lime or orange pudding for a different citrus flavor.
- Add a layer of fresh berries on top for extra freshness and color.
- For a richer cream cheese layer, mix in a bit of vanilla extract.
Storage
Store the Lemon Pretzel Dessert covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat is not recommended; serve chilled for best texture and flavor.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this dessert?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese can be used, but it may alter the creaminess and texture slightly.
Do I have to bake the pretzel crust?
Baking helps the crust hold together better and enhances the flavor, but you can press it firmly and chill it if you prefer a no-bake option.
PrintLemon Pretzel Dessert Recipe
This delightful Lemon Pretzel Dessert features a crunchy, salty pretzel crust topped with a smooth cream cheese layer, a tangy lemon pudding topping, and fluffy whipped topping. Perfectly balanced between sweet and tart, this no-fuss dessert is chilled to set and serve as a refreshing treat for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Pretzel Crust
- 2 cups crushed pretzels
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Topping
- 1 package (3.4 oz) lemon pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
Instructions
- Prepare the Pretzel Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and sugar. Mix well until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form a firm crust. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with 1 cup sugar until smooth and creamy. Spread this mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust to create a rich middle layer.
- Prepare Lemon Pudding: In a separate bowl, whisk together the lemon pudding mix and 2 cups cold milk until thickened, about 2 minutes. Pour the pudding over the cream cheese layer, spreading it evenly.
- Add Whipped Topping: Finally, evenly spread the whipped topping over the lemon pudding layer, creating a light and fluffy finishing touch.
- Chill to Set: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the layers to firm up and flavors to meld. Serve chilled for best taste and texture.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pretzels.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to avoid lumps in the filling.
- Use freshly whipped topping rather than canned for a fresher taste.
- Make this dessert a day ahead to save time and improve flavor melding.
- Garnish with lemon zest or extra crushed pretzels for added texture and appeal.
Keywords: lemon dessert, pretzel crust dessert, no bake lemon dessert, cream cheese lemon dessert, easy summer dessert
