Apple Cinnamon Pretzel Salad
Apple Cinnamon Pretzel Salad is a delightful layered dessert combining a salty, crunchy pretzel crust with creamy sweetened cream cheese, topped with fresh sliced apples dusted with cinnamon. This treat offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it ideal for family gatherings or cozy evenings.
- Author: Kathy
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (when using gluten-free pretzels or substitutes)
Crust
- 2 cups crushed pretzels
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Cream Cheese Layer
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup whipped topping
- 3/4 cup powdered sugar
Apple Cinnamon Layer
- 3 large apples, thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional)
- Prepare the Pretzel Crust: Finely crush pretzels using a food processor or rolling pin inside a sealed bag. Mix pretzel crumbs with melted butter and granulated sugar until combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a baking pan to form an even crust. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes to set the crust and enhance its toasty aroma, then allow to cool slightly.
- Make the Cream Cheese Layer: Beat softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually mix in powdered sugar for sweetness. Gently fold in whipped topping to lighten the texture. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust to create a luscious base.
- Add the Apple Cinnamon Layer: Thinly slice fresh apples and toss them in a bowl with ground cinnamon and sugar to bring out natural flavors. Arrange the apple slices neatly over the cream cheese layer, ensuring full coverage for every bite.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 3 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and the crust to remain crisp. Serve chilled, optionally garnished with extra crushed pretzels, a sprinkle of cinnamon, fresh apple slices, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added indulgence.
Notes
- Use firm, crisp apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for the best flavor and texture.
- Allow adequate chilling time to set layers properly and enhance flavor melding.
- Press pretzel crust mixture firmly to avoid a crumbly base after baking.
- Soften cream cheese to room temperature before mixing for smooth consistency.
- Use freshly ground cinnamon for more aromatic and flavorful results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of recipe)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: apple dessert, cinnamon, pretzel salad, layered dessert, autumn dessert, sweet and salty dessert