Blueberry Pretzel Salad

When my brother-in-law visited Germany, his primary objective was to see how many giant soft pretzels he could eat in a week (the answer: 14). He loves them so much that whenever we have dinner together, I make him something with pretzels, including this blueberry pretzel salad recipe.

If you’re from the Midwest, you’ve likely enjoyed a fair share of strawberry pretzel salad in your lifetime. Recipe contributor Janet Akey’s blueberry version begins with a sweetened pretzel crumb crust, then is topped with a layer of tangy sweetened cream cheese, and finally is finished with a generous amount of blueberry pie filling. Cut into squares, blueberry pretzel salad is an easy no-bake dessert that stands out at any potluck or summer backyard barbecue, or on any holiday table.

Ingredients for Blueberry Pretzel Salad

• Pretzel base: Crushed pretzels, granulated sugar and melted butter lend the dessert its beloved salty/sweet contrast and crunch.
• Sweetened cream cheese: A rich and creamy no-bake cheesecake layer made with cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar and fluffy whipped topping separates the crust from the sweet and fruity blueberry topping.
• Blueberry pie filling: For ease, you can grab prepared filling from the baking aisle at your local grocer, or make blueberry pie filling from scratch.
• Whipped topping: Garnish each slice of the blueberry pretzel dessert with a dollop of additional whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip) for the perfect finish.

Directions

Step 1: Make the crust

In a large bowl, combine the pretzels and sugar. Stir in the melted butter, then press the mixture into a 13×9-inch dish. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix the cream cheese layer

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Fold in the whipped topping, then spread evenly over the crust.

Step 3: Top with the blueberry pie filling

Carefully top the sweetened cream cheese with the blueberry pie filling, then spread it into an even layer.

Step 4: Chill, slice and serve

Cover the dessert and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until serving. Garnish with whipped topping if desired. Cut into squares and serve.

Editor’s Tip: The recipe will be soft-set within 30 minutes of mixing. That said, if it is a hot day, let the blueberry pretzel salad chill for a longer period of time to ensure the cream cheese layer firms and the slices are more structurally stable upon serving.

Blueberry Pretzel Salad Variations

• Add Jell-O: Take a cue from this strawberry lime pretzel salad and add 1 small box of unflavored or flavored gelatin to the pie filling. This will result in a more stable topping, yielding cleaner slices with sharper layers.
• Try other fruit options: Why stop at blueberry? You can make a pretzel salad dessert with other berries and fruits, like blackberry, raspberry or cherry. Or, layer lemon curd or your favorite Key lime pie filling over the cream cheese layer for a citrus twist.
• Include flavorings and extracts: Blueberry pairs well with countless other spices and flavors. Add a dash of cinnamon to the pretzel crust and/or the cream cheese layer for warmth, or stir in coconut, almond or vanilla extract for depth. Citrus also complements blueberry well; try adding lemon, lime or orange extract, juice or zest to the cream cheese layer or pie filling for a little pop of brightness.
• Garnish with candied pretzels: Borrow the sweet and crunchy pretzel topping from this strawberry pretzel salad poke cake if you also have a pretzel lover in your life who can never get enough.

How to Store Blueberry Pretzel Salad

Store blueberry pretzel salad in the refrigerator for up to four days. Cover it well before storing.

Blueberry Pretzel Salad Tips

Why didn’t my blueberry pretzel salad set?

Time and temperature can both affect how this blueberry pretzel salad recipe sets. If it’s still soft, give it more time in the fridge. If after a few hours it is still soft, you may have added too much whipped topping to the cream cheese layer. Substituting low-fat cream cheese (Neufchâtel) or fat-free whipped topping can also affect the recipe’s consistency and its ability to set.

Can you substitute whipped cream for whipped topping?

Yes, you can use homemade whipped cream instead of frozen whipped topping. Just make sure to whip the cream to very stiff peaks to ensure the dessert sets properly.

What can you serve with blueberry pretzel salad?

Blueberry pretzel dessert is a staple at picnics and summer gatherings. Serve it alongside your favorite potluck salad and other easy picnic sides. For a main, fire up the grill and serve a platter of smoky barbecued beef ribs, marinated grilled chicken or juicy cheeseburgers.