Looking for the perfect red, white, and blue dessert to serve at your next summer cookout or Fourth of July celebration? This Patriotic Berry Pretzel Salad checks all the boxes—it’s vibrant, refreshing, easy to make, and always a crowd favorite. The sweet-and-salty combo of crushed pretzels, creamy filling, and a fruity gelatin topping makes it a nostalgic classic that’s both festive and delicious.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or contributing to a potluck, this chilled dessert is guaranteed to disappear fast!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No-fuss layers that are easy to assemble

• Perfect balance of sweet, salty, creamy, and fruity

• Visually festive with red and blue berries—ideal for patriotic holidays

• Can be made ahead and chilled until ready to serve

• Great for summer gatherings, picnics, potlucks, and holidays

Ingredients

For the Pretzel Crust:

• 2 cups crushed pretzels

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed

For the Berry Topping Layer:

• 1 cup boiling water

• 2 (3 oz) packages strawberry gelatin (Jell-O)

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

• 1 cup fresh blueberries

• 1 cup fresh raspberries

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Pretzel Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a mixing bowl, combine crushed pretzels, sugar, and melted butter. Mix until everything is well-coated.

3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.

4. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool completely before adding the next layer.

💡 Tip: Use the bottom of a glass or measuring cup to press the crust evenly and firmly into the pan.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

1. In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with 1 cup sugar until smooth and fluffy.

2. Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined.

3. Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust, making sure to seal the edges to prevent the gelatin from seeping through.

❄️ Chill this layer for 15–20 minutes in the fridge to help it set before pouring on the berry layer.

Step 3: Make the Berry Topping

1. In a separate bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in 1 cup boiling water. Stir until completely dissolved and let cool slightly (about 10–15 minutes).

2. Gently fold in the fresh sliced strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries.

3. Pour the mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer.

🍓 For a more patriotic touch, arrange some berries in flag or star patterns on top.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

1. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until completely set.

2. Once firm, slice into squares and serve chilled.

🎆 This dessert is best served cold and can be made up to a day ahead for stress-free entertaining.

Make It Your Own

• Fruit options: Swap or add in blackberries or cherries if desired.

• Gelatin flavors: Try raspberry or mixed berry gelatin for a twist.

• Mini servings: Use mini mason jars for individual dessert cups—perfect for parties!

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers (if there are any!) covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• This dessert does not freeze well, as the gelatin and cream layers may separate.

Final Thoughts

This Patriotic Berry Pretzel Salad is a classic summer dessert with a modern twist—fresh berries, creamy filling, and a buttery pretzel crust that ties it all together. Its eye-catching colors and crowd-pleasing flavor make it the perfect treat for any festive gathering.

Bring it to your next cookout, picnic, or Fourth of July celebration, and watch it disappear slice by slice!

🇺🇸 Make it. Share it. Love it. Happy Summer!

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