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pineapple pretzel salad photo 017 with layers of pretzel crust, cream cheese filling, and pineapple topping in a glass baking dish

Pineapple Pretzel Salad

Sweet and salty layered dessert featuring a pretzel crust, creamy center, and pineapple topping - perfect for potlucks and family gatherings.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 40 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 347 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups pretzels, crushed (about 6 ounces)
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 8 ounces whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
  • 2 cans (20 ounces each) crushed pineapple, undrained
  • 1 package (6 ounces) pineapple gelatin (or lemon gelatin)
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional, for extra brightness)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Place pretzels in a ziplock bag and crush with a rolling pin into small pieces (not fine crumbs).
  • In a medium bowl, combine crushed pretzels, 3 tablespoons sugar, and melted butter.
  • Press the pretzel mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13 inch glass baking dish.
  • Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then allow it to cool completely.
  • For the creamy layer, beat softened cream cheese and 1 cup sugar until smooth and fluffy.
  • Fold in the whipped topping with a gentle hand until fully incorporated.
  • Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust, being careful to create a solid layer that completely covers the pretzels and seals them from the topping.
  • Refrigerate while preparing the pineapple layer.
  • For the pineapple layer, pour undrained crushed pineapple into a saucepan and bring to a boil.
  • Add the gelatin and lemon juice (if using) to the hot pineapple, stirring until completely dissolved. Continue boiling for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Allow the pineapple mixture to cool to room temperature – but not to set.

Notes

For the crunchiest crust, allow the pretzel layer to cool completely before adding the cream cheese layer.
Be absolutely certain to spread the cream cheese mixture all the way to the edges of the dish, creating a complete seal over the pretzel crust.
This dessert actually improves when made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld and the gelatin to set properly.
For easier serving, chill the dessert thoroughly before cutting, and use a sharp knife dipped in hot water between slices.
Keyword pineapple dessert, pineapple pretzel salad, potluck dessert, pretzel crust, sweet and salty dessert