Pineapple Pretzel Delight is a sweet, salty, and creamy dessert that strikes the perfect balance of flavors and textures. With a crunchy pretzel crust, a smooth cream cheese layer, and a refreshing pineapple topping, this dish is ideal for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or warm-weather treats. It’s no-bake, easy to prepare, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This delightful dessert combines a buttery pretzel crust with a light and creamy filling, topped off by sweet, tropical pineapple. The contrast between the salty pretzels and the sugary fruit creates a flavor profile that is both unique and addictive. It’s a refreshing twist on traditional layered desserts and can be made ahead of time, making it convenient for entertaining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the pretzel crust:

2 cups pretzels, crushed
3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
3 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the cream cheese layer:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed

For the pineapple topping:

1 (20 oz) can crushed pineapple, drained

Directions

Prepare the crust:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and sugar. Mix well and press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool completely.
Make the cream cheese layer:
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. Fold in the whipped topping until fully combined.
Assemble the layers:
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust, being careful to spread all the way to the edges to seal the crust and prevent sogginess.
Add the pineapple topping:
Spoon the well-drained crushed pineapple evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Chill:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving to allow the layers to set.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12–15 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes (for crust)
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Calories: Approximately 300 kcal per serving

Variations

Tropical twist: Add shredded coconut or diced mango to the pineapple layer.
Nutty crunch: Mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the crust for added texture.
Citrus version: Use mandarin oranges instead of pineapple for a different fruity flavor.
Low sugar: Use light Cool Whip and reduce the sugar in the filling for a lighter dessert.
Graham cracker base: Substitute graham crackers for pretzels for a sweeter crust option.

storage/reheating

Store Pineapple Pretzel Delight covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is not recommended to freeze this dessert, as the texture of the cream cheese and whipped topping may change when thawed. Always serve chilled for best results.

FAQs

Can I make this dessert a day ahead?

Yes, this dish actually improves with time. Make it the night before and let it chill overnight for best flavor and texture.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, but make sure it’s finely crushed and well-drained to prevent excess moisture.

How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Spread the cream cheese layer fully to the edges to seal the crust before adding the pineapple topping.

Can I use a sugar substitute?

Yes, use your preferred granulated sugar substitute, keeping in mind it may slightly alter the taste and texture.

Is it necessary to bake the pretzel crust?

Baking helps bind the crust and adds crunch. For a completely no-bake version, you can chill the crust instead, though it may be more crumbly.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Yes, use 1 cup of heavy cream whipped with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.

What kind of pretzels should I use?

Use salted mini twists or sticks and crush them finely for best texture in the crust.

Can I use a different fruit topping?

Absolutely—crushed strawberries, cherries, or even a fruit cocktail can be used in place of pineapple.

What size pan is best?

A standard 9×13-inch dish works best for even layering and serving.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the ingredients and use two pans, or one large sheet pan if available.

Conclusion

Pineapple Pretzel Delight is a deliciously refreshing dessert that combines sweet, salty, and creamy layers into a single irresistible bite. With minimal prep and familiar ingredients, it’s an easy dish that delivers impressive results—perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or just a simple treat to enjoy with family. Serve it cold and watch it disappear.

Pineapple Pretzel Delight

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Author: Olivia
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Pineapple Pretzel Delight is the ultimate combo of sweet, salty, and creamy! With a crunchy pretzel crust, a fluffy cream cheese layer, and a refreshing pineapple topping, it’s a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or any warm-weather occasion.

Ingredients

For the Pretzel Crust:

2 cups pretzels, crushed
3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
3 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Cream Cheese Layer:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed

For the Pineapple Topping:

1 can (20 oz) crushed pineapple, well drained

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Make the crust: Combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and 3 tablespoons sugar in a bowl. Press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Bake crust for 10 minutes, then let cool completely.
Prepare the cream cheese layer: Beat softened cream cheese with 1 cup sugar until smooth. Fold in whipped topping.
Spread cream mixture over the cooled crust, making sure to seal the edges completely to prevent pineapple from seeping through.
Top with pineapple: Evenly spoon the drained crushed pineapple over the cream cheese layer.
Chill the dessert for at least 2 hours before serving.

Notes

Make sure pineapple is well-drained to prevent the crust from getting soggy.
You can use low-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping for a lighter version.
Garnish with extra pretzel crumbs or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for flair.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking (for crust), Chilling