If you’re searching for a dessert that’s sweet, salty, creamy, and incredibly easy, these Cherry Pretzel Squares check every box. This no-bake favorite combines a buttery pretzel crust, a fluffy cream cheese layer, and a glossy cherry topping that looks as good as it tastes. Whether you need a quick make-ahead treat for a gathering or a simple dessert to keep in the fridge, this recipe delivers every time.
Why You’ll Love This Cherry Pretzel Squares Recipe
- No-bake and stress-free — perfect for warm days
- Sweet-and-salty balance everyone craves
- Make-ahead friendly for parties and holidays
- Simple ingredients you can find anywhere
- Always a crowd favorite at potlucks and family dinners
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 cups crushed pretzels
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1¼ cups granulated sugar, divided
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 8 oz whipped topping
- 2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling
How to Make Cherry Pretzel Squares (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Make the Pretzel Crust
Crush the pretzels into small pieces (not powder). Mix with melted butter and ¼ cup sugar. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to create an even crust.
Step 2: Chill the Crust
Place the crust in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes so it sets and stays crisp.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Layer
Beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining sugar until smooth and fluffy. Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined.
Step 4: Spread and Seal
Spread the cream mixture evenly over the chilled crust, making sure it reaches all the edges. This step helps keep the crust from getting soggy.
Step 5: Add the Cherry Topping
Spoon the cherry pie filling evenly over the cream layer.
Step 6: Chill Until Set
Refrigerate for at least 2–4 hours, or until fully set. Slice into squares and serve cold.
Tips & Variations
- Switch the fruit: Strawberry, blueberry, or mixed berry pie filling works beautifully
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pretzels for an easy swap
- Lighter version: Use reduced-fat cream cheese or whipped topping
- Extra crunch: Sprinkle chopped pretzels on top just before serving
- Clean slices: Wipe the knife between cuts for bakery-style squares
Serving Ideas & Storage
Cherry Pretzel Squares are best served well-chilled. They pair perfectly with coffee, iced tea, or lemonade. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may change.
Print
Easy Cherry Pretzel Squares Everyone Loves
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12–16 squares 1x
Description
Cherry Pretzel Squares are a sweet-and-salty, no-bake layered dessert with a buttery pretzel crust, a fluffy cream cheese filling, and a glossy cherry pie topping. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, summer gatherings, or an easy make-ahead treat.
Ingredients
2 cups pretzels, crushed
3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar, divided
8 oz cream cheese, softened
8 oz whipped topping
2 cans (21 oz each) cherry pie filling
Instructions
1. Crush pretzels into small pieces (not powder). Mix with melted butter and 1/4 cup sugar.
2. Press mixture firmly into an even layer in a 9×13-inch dish to form the crust.
3. Refrigerate crust for 15 minutes to set.
4. Beat softened cream cheese with remaining sugar until smooth and fluffy.
5. Fold in whipped topping gently until fully combined.
6. Spread cream layer evenly over chilled crust, making sure it reaches the edges to seal the crust.
7. Spoon cherry pie filling evenly over the cream layer.
8. Refrigerate 2–4 hours, or until set. Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Notes
Seal the crust: Spread the cream layer all the way to the edges to help prevent a soggy crust.
Chill for clean slices: For neat squares, chill until fully set and wipe the knife between cuts.
Variations: Swap cherry pie filling for strawberry, blueberry, or mixed berry. Use gluten-free pretzels if needed.
Storage: Cover and refrigerate up to 3 days. Freezing is not recommended because the texture may change.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 320
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~320 |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | ~280mg |
Final Thoughts
These Cherry Pretzel Squares prove that simple desserts can still feel special. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, they’re the kind of recipe you’ll keep coming back to whenever you need something reliable, delicious, and guaranteed to disappear fast.