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Apple Cinnamon Pretzel Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 139 reviews

Apple Cinnamon Pretzel Salad is a deliciously unique dessert featuring a crunchy pretzel crust topped with a creamy, sweet cream cheese filling and a warm, spiced apple cinnamon topping. This layered dessert offers a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors with a delightful texture contrast, making it a favorite for potlucks and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Apple Cinnamon Topping

  • 4 Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced into small pieces
  • 1½ cups water
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Pretzel Crust

  • 2 cups crushed pretzels
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • ½ cup butter, melted

Cream Cheese Filling

  • 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
  • 8 oz Cool Whip
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Apple Cinnamon Topping: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine water, cornstarch, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Stir constantly and bring to a boil. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes. Add the diced apples, stir well, and let simmer for 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool completely. Set aside.
  2. Make the Pretzel Crust: In a bowl, mix crushed pretzels, sugar, and melted butter until well combined. Reserve about one cup of this mixture for topping later. Press the remaining mixture firmly into the bottom of an ungreased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes. Remove from the oven and let the crust cool completely.
  3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and Cool Whip, then continue to beat until everything is fully combined and smooth.
  4. Assemble the Salad: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust. Place the dish in the refrigerator and chill until set.
  5. Add the Apple Topping and Final Pretzel Layer: Once chilled, spoon the cooled apple cinnamon mixture over the cream cheese layer and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the reserved pretzel mixture on top of the apples for added crunch.
  6. Chill Before Serving: Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4-6 hours or until set. Serve chilled for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Nutritional values are approximate and can vary depending on ingredient brands and modifications.
  • Canned apple pie filling can be used as a substitute for the apple cinnamon topping, though it may alter the texture and flavor.
  • Ensure the pretzel crust cools completely before adding the cream cheese filling to prevent melting.
  • For best results, chill the dessert for the full 4-6 hours to allow flavors to meld and the salad to set properly.

Keywords: Apple Desserts, Apple Pretzel Salad, Cream Cheese, Easy Pretzel Salad, Pretzel Salad

Find it online: https://cookwithlea.com/apple-cinnamon-pretzel-salad-recipe/