Lightened-Up Strawberry Pretzel Salad: A 2-Point Weight Watchers Dessert for Any Occasion

Indulge in a classic favorite without the guilt! This revamped Strawberry Pretzel Salad recipe offers all the beloved flavors and textures of the traditional dessert, but with a significantly lighter footprint. Perfect for those following Weight Watchers, each delightful slice is only two points, making it an ideal treat for gatherings, family dinners, or a simple sweet craving. While this recipe shines with a festive red, white, and blue theme – making it an absolute showstopper for 4th of July celebrations – its deliciousness knows no season. You can easily adapt it for any time of year by simply customizing the colors or garnishes.

Imagine a vibrant dessert featuring a perfectly crisp, salty pretzel crust, a lusciously smooth and creamy filling, and a shimmering layer of strawberry Jello studded with juicy strawberry pieces. Our lightened-up version meticulously recreates this experience, ensuring you don’t miss out on any of the nostalgic charm. Instead of a heavy, traditional cream cheese filling, we’ve ingeniously substituted it with a blend of sugar-free Jello cheesecake pudding mix, airy fat-free whipped topping, and protein-rich Greek yogurt. The result is a velvety, rich filling that astoundingly mimics the classic, yet remains incredibly light and refreshing.

The commitment to health-conscious choices extends to every layer. The pretzel crust, typically made with butter, is lightened using unsweetened applesauce for binding, drastically reducing fat content without sacrificing that essential salty crunch. For the vibrant top layer, we utilize sugar-free strawberry Jello, ensuring a sweet burst of flavor without excess sugars. This innovative approach makes our Strawberry Pretzel Salad almost entirely fat-free, a true win for anyone seeking a delicious dessert that aligns with their wellness goals. Prepare this fantastic dish the day before your event, and you’ll have one less thing to worry about. Whether you stick with the patriotic theme or explore different Jello flavors and filling colors, crafting this dessert is as much fun as enjoying it.

Why This Lightened-Up Dessert is a Must-Try

Beyond its impressive low-point count, this Strawberry Pretzel Salad offers a multitude of reasons to make it your next go-to dessert:

• Effortlessly Serves a Crowd. This generous recipe yields 18-20 slices, making it the perfect dessert for any large gathering, from holiday parties to summer barbecues. Its simple, fruity, and refreshing flavors are universally appealing, ensuring every guest finds something to love in each bite. You can proudly serve a delicious dessert that’s also mindful of everyone’s dietary preferences.
• Minimizes Oven Time. One of the standout benefits of this recipe, particularly during warmer months, is its minimal oven requirement. The pretzel crust bakes quickly, meaning your kitchen won’t heat up unnecessarily. This also frees up valuable oven space if you’re preparing multiple dishes for a special occasion, streamlining your cooking process and keeping your cool.
• A Beloved Classic, Reimagined! If the classic strawberry pretzel salad holds a special place in your heart and childhood memories, you will absolutely adore this healthier rendition. It maintains the essential textural and flavor contrasts: the irresistible salty crunch of the pretzel crust, the smooth and creamy filling, and the sweet, fruity burst of strawberry Jello and fresh berries on top. This lighter version proves that you don’t have to compromise on taste to enjoy a nostalgic favorite.
• Health-Conscious Indulgence. With its strategic ingredient swaps, this dessert significantly reduces fat and sugar content, aligning perfectly with a balanced lifestyle. Enjoy a decadent-tasting treat without derailing your health goals, making it a truly guilt-free pleasure.
• Beautiful and Customizable. The vibrant layers and potential for creative garnishes make this salad a visually stunning dessert. Whether you opt for a patriotic theme or customize it with different fruit and Jello flavors, it’s a versatile canvas for your culinary creativity.

Recipe At-A-Glance

Here’s a quick summary of what you need to know to get started with this fantastic recipe:

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 61g)
• Number of Servings: This recipe generously yields 18 servings, perfect for parties.
• Preparation Time: Approximately 30 minutes active prep time.
• Cook Time: Only 10 minutes for the pretzel crust.
• Resting Time: A crucial 2-3 hours to allow the layers to set properly in the refrigerator.
• Weight Watchers Points Per Recipe: Each serving is a mere 2 points, with the entire recipe totaling 30 points. For convenient tracking, you can click here to view and save the recipe directly in the Weight Watchers app (WW login required).

Essential Ingredients for Your Strawberry Pretzel Salad

This delightful layered dessert is composed of three distinct and equally delicious components: the crunchy pretzel crust, the creamy cheesecake-like filling, and the refreshing strawberry Jello topping. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need for each layer, ensuring you have everything on hand for a seamless preparation:

For the Crispy Pretzel Crust 

• 4 oz Pretzel sticks (For a low-point option, I highly recommend using the Rold Gold brand). The salty pretzels provide a perfect contrast to the sweet layers.
• ½ cup Unsweetened applesauce (This ingenious substitute replaces butter, binding the crumbs while keeping the crust light and moist).
• 2 tbsp Monk fruit sweetener or granulated sugar (To add a touch of sweetness to the salty crust).

For the Creamy Cheesecake Layer

• 8 oz container fat-free whipped topping (Contributes to the light, airy texture and creamy mouthfeel).
• 2 ½ cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt (The secret to its richness and tang, while boosting protein and keeping it low-fat).
• 1 oz box Sugar-free cheesecake Jello instant pudding mix (Provides that distinct cheesecake flavor without the heavy cream cheese).
• Blue food dye (optional, but highly recommended for the festive 4th of July red, white, and blue theme).

For the Refreshing Strawberry Jello Layer

• 0.6 oz box Sugar-free low-calorie strawberry Jello (Choose a family-size box or two standard 0.3 oz boxes to ensure enough for a vibrant top layer).
• 4 cup Water for the Jello (Split between boiling and cold water for optimal setting).
• 14 oz Frozen strawberries, whole or sliced (Crucially, do not thaw them beforehand; adding them frozen helps the Jello set beautifully around them).

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Your Lightened-Up Strawberry Pretzel Salad

Follow these clear and simple steps to create a show-stopping dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious:

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). For the pretzel crust, finely crush the pretzel sticks using either a food processor for speed and consistency, or a rolling pin and a sturdy bag for a more rustic texture. Transfer the crushed pretzel crumbs into a mixing bowl. Add the monk fruit sweetener (or granulated sugar) and unsweetened applesauce. Mix thoroughly with your hands until the crumbs are well combined and resemble a moist dough. If the mixture seems too dry and isn’t binding, add a tiny bit more applesauce, a tablespoon at a time, until it holds together.
2. Evenly press the prepared pretzel crust mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. For easier spreading and to ensure an even layer, you can place a piece of parchment paper over the crust and use your hands or the bottom of a flat glass to press it down firmly. The layer will appear thin, but it will perfectly fit the bottom of the pan and create a wonderfully crisp foundation.



3. Bake the pretzel crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until it achieves a beautiful golden-brown color and smells wonderfully toasty. Be careful not to over-bake, as it can become too hard or shrink. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely before proceeding. A cool crust is essential for the subsequent layers.
4. Once the pretzel crust has fully cooled, it’s time to create the creamy cheesecake layer. In a large mixing bowl, combine the fat-free whipped topping, nonfat Greek yogurt, and the entire 1 oz package of sugar-free cheesecake Jello instant pudding mix. It’s crucial not to prepare the pudding mix with milk; simply add the powder directly to the other ingredients. If you’re aiming for the patriotic blue layer, gently fold in blue food dye until the desired vibrant color is achieved and thoroughly incorporated.
5. Carefully spread the smooth cheesecake filling evenly over the cooled pretzel crust. Ensure the layer is as uniform as possible. Once spread, place the baking dish into the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the final strawberry Jello layer. This step helps the filling set slightly, creating a firmer base for the Jello.
6. Now, for the dazzling strawberry Jello layer. In a heatproof bowl, bring 2 cups of water to a rolling boil. Pour the boiling water over the sugar-free strawberry Jello powder and stir continuously until the powder is completely dissolved. Then, add 2 cups of cold water to the mixture and stir again. This helps to cool the Jello down more quickly. Carefully pour this Jello mixture over your still-frozen strawberries. Do not thaw the strawberries, as their frozen state helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the Jello layer and ensures they remain suspended throughout.



7. Allow the strawberry Jello mixture with the frozen berries to rest at room temperature for about 10 to 15 minutes. This waiting period is important to allow the Jello to slightly thicken and cool down. It should be cool to the touch and just beginning to set, but still pourable. This prevents the warm Jello from melting the creamy cheesecake layer beneath it.
8. Gently pour the slightly thickened and cooled strawberry Jello mixture over the chilled blue cheesecake filling. Once all layers are in place, return the Jello dessert to the refrigerator. Allow it to sit and firm up completely for a minimum of 2-3 hours, or preferably overnight, to ensure all layers are perfectly set and easy to slice. Before serving, unleash your creativity! Decorate the top with dollops of Greek yogurt, fat-free whipped cream, or fat-free cool whip. Garnish with a medley of fresh berries of your choice – strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries – for an extra pop of color and freshness. Serve chilled, and savor every delightful bite!



Creative Variations & Smart Substitutions

This lightened-up Strawberry Pretzel Salad recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fantastic ideas to inspire you:

• Strawberry Pretzel Salad with Fresh Strawberries: While this recipe calls for frozen strawberries (which are excellent for keeping the Jello layer suspended), you can absolutely use fresh strawberries instead. Simply use the same amount by weight (14 oz). For a beautiful presentation, you can roughly chop them or, if you prefer, leave smaller ones whole (ensuring stems are removed) so they elegantly poke through the Jello.
• Strawberry Pretzel Salad with Graham Cracker Crust: If pretzels aren’t your preference, a classic graham cracker crust makes a delicious alternative. You’ll need to crush graham crackers finely and combine them with applesauce and sweetener, much like the pretzel crust. The exact ounces required might vary slightly from pretzels, but use the 4 oz pretzel amount as a good starting baseline, adjusting for consistency until a firm, cohesive crust forms.
• Experiment with Different Jello Flavors: The versatility of this dessert truly shines when you play with flavors! For the creamy middle filling, consider using plain sugar-free vanilla pudding mix or even sugar-free white chocolate Jello pudding mix for a different twist. For the top layer, while strawberry is traditional, you could try sugar-free raspberry, cherry, or even a mixed berry Jello for varying color and flavor profiles. If you’re not strictly adhering to sugar-free, a Berry Blue Jello would certainly create a stunning blue top layer, though sugar-free options for this specific flavor can be harder to find.
• Sweetener vs. Granulated Sugar in Crust: The pretzel crust only requires 2 tablespoons of sweetener. At such a small quantity, substituting granulated sugar for monk fruit sweetener will have a negligible impact on the overall Weight Watchers points for the entire recipe, offering flexibility without significant point adjustments.
• Butter vs. Applesauce in Crust: While applesauce is chosen for its low-fat and low-point benefits, you can certainly use melted butter or a butter replacement in the crust for a richer flavor. However, remember that making this change will require you to adjust the recipe’s points in your Weight Watchers recipe builder, as butter significantly increases calorie and fat content.
• Dairy-Free Options: For a dairy-free version, consider using plant-based whipped topping and a dairy-free Greek-style yogurt alternative. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they align with your dietary needs.

Expert Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Pretzel Jello Salad

Achieving a flawless, delicious Strawberry Pretzel Jello Salad is simple with these handy tips and tricks:

• Proper Storage for Leftovers: Any leftover strawberry Jello pretzel salad should be stored in the same 9×13 inch pan it was assembled in. To keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods, cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. When stored correctly, this delightful recipe will hold its quality for three to four days in the refrigerator. Important note: this dessert does not freeze well, primarily due to the Greek yogurt in the creamy layer, which can develop an unappealing texture upon thawing.
• The Crucial Jello Temperature: To maintain distinct, beautiful layers, it is absolutely essential that you do not pour the strawberry Jello mixture over the cheesecake filling while it is still hot. If the Jello is too warm, it will melt the creamy cheesecake pudding layer, leading to a muddled appearance rather than the crisp, defined layers you desire when you slice into it. Always allow the Jello to cool and slightly thicken for 10-15 minutes before gently pouring it.
• Avoid Over-baking the Pretzel Crust: Keep a close eye on your pretzel crust while it bakes. Over-baking can cause it to become too hard, potentially burning, and it may also shrink from the edges of the pan. A shrunken crust won’t entirely cover the bottom, affecting the overall presentation and integrity of the dessert. Bake just until golden brown, typically 8-10 minutes.
• Evenly Spreading the Crust: For a uniform base, after pressing the pretzel mixture into the pan, use the flat bottom of a glass or a measuring cup to firmly and evenly compact the crust. This helps prevent it from crumbling when sliced.
• The Power of Frozen Strawberries: Using frozen, unthawed strawberries is a key technique for this recipe. As the Jello begins to set, the frozen berries prevent them from sinking to the bottom, ensuring an even distribution of fruit throughout the Jello layer, adding to both the aesthetic and taste.

Discover More Delicious & Lightened-Up Desserts!

If you loved this lightened-up Strawberry Pretzel Salad, you’ll be thrilled to explore more delicious and guilt-free dessert options:

Strawberry Torte – A light and refreshing take on a classic torte.

Frozen Greek Yogurt Bites – Perfect for a quick, healthy, and satisfying sweet treat.

Weight Watchers Strawberry Pie – Another fantastic strawberry dessert that aligns with your points plan.

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Lightened-Up Strawberry Pretzel Salad

Servings: 18

Prep: 30 minutes mins

Cook: 10 minutes mins

Resting Time: 3 hours hrs

Total: 3 hours hrs 40 minutes mins






This delightful 4th of July strawberry jello salad features a creamy, lightened-up cheesecake filling and a perfectly salty pretzel crust, making it a low-point, Weight Watchers friendly dessert.

Ingredients 

Pretzel Crust

• ▢ 4 oz Pretzel sticks, (Rold Gold brand recommended for low-point count)
• ▢ ½ cup Unsweetened apple sauce
• ▢ 2 tbsp Monk fruit sweetener or granulated sugar

Creamy Cheesecake Layer

• ▢ 8 oz container Fat-free whipped topping
• ▢ 2 ½ cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
• ▢ 1 oz box Sugar-free cheesecake jello instant pudding mix
• ▢ Blue food dye, optional, for patriotic theme

Strawberry Jello Layer

• ▢ 0.6 oz box Sugar-free low-calorie strawberry jello, (family-size or two 0.3 oz boxes)
• ▢ 4 cup Water for the Jello
• ▢ 14 oz Frozen strawberries, (whole or sliced, do not thaw)
• ▢ Fresh berries, greek yogurt, fat-free whipped cream for garnish, optional

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Instructions 

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). To prepare the pretzel crust, crush the pretzel sticks very finely using a food processor or a rolling pin. Transfer the pretzel crumbs to a bowl, then add the monk fruit sweetener (or granulated sugar) and unsweetened applesauce. Mix these ingredients thoroughly with your hands until a cohesive dough forms. If the mixture is too dry, add a small additional amount of applesauce until it binds together well.
• Press the pretzel crust mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. For best results, place a piece of parchment paper over the crust and use a flat-bottomed glass or your hands to ensure it’s tightly compacted and creates a uniform layer across the entire bottom of the pan.
• Bake the prepared crust for 8-10 minutes, or until it turns a beautiful golden brown. Be careful not to over-bake, as this can lead to a brittle or shrunken crust. Once baked, remove from the oven and set aside to cool completely.
• Once the pretzel crust is completely cooled, prepare the creamy cheesecake layer. In a mixing bowl, combine the fat-free whipped topping, nonfat plain Greek yogurt, and the 1 oz package of sugar-free cheesecake Jello instant pudding mix (do not prepare with milk; use the powder directly). If desired for a patriotic theme, gently stir in blue food dye until it’s evenly incorporated and you achieve your preferred shade of blue.
• Carefully spread the creamy cheesecake filling in an even layer over the cooled pretzel crust. Ensure a smooth, consistent surface. Place the baking dish into the refrigerator to chill and set while you proceed with the strawberry Jello layer.
• For the strawberry Jello layer, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Pour the boiling water into a heatproof bowl with the sugar-free Jello powder, stirring until the powder is fully dissolved. Add 2 cups of cold water and stir again. Pour this Jello mixture directly over the still-frozen strawberries. Do not thaw the strawberries, as their frozen state helps them remain suspended within the Jello as it sets.
• Allow the strawberry Jello mixture to rest for approximately 10 to 15 minutes at room temperature, or until it has slightly thickened and cooled down to a lukewarm temperature. This crucial step prevents the warm Jello from melting into the cheesecake layer. Gently pour the cooled, slightly thickened Jello and strawberry mixture over the chilled blue cheesecake filling.
• Place the entire Jello dessert back into the refrigerator. Allow it to chill for a minimum of 2-3 hours, or ideally overnight, until all layers are completely firm and set. Before serving, you can decorate the top with additional dollops of Greek yogurt, fat-free whipped cream, or fat-free Cool Whip. Garnish with an assortment of fresh berries like strawberries and blueberries for a vibrant and appealing presentation. Serve chilled for the best experience, and enjoy this delightful, lightened-up treat!

Notes

This recipe is a fantastic, guilt-free indulgence, coming in at just 2 Weight Watchers points per serving. It’s a perfect make-ahead dessert for any occasion!

Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 61gCalories: 159kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 2.4gFat: 0.1gCholesterol: 0.9mgSodium: 156mgPotassium: 72mgFiber: 0.7gSugar: 7.9gCalcium: 24mgIron: 0.4mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation. It is recommended to verify with your preferred nutrition calculator for precise dietary planning.

Additional Info

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

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