Strawberry Pretzel Salad Dip

Nothing screams Midwest quite like a fluffy “salad” or dip featuring Cool Whip. Strawberry pretzel salad is one of the most classic midwestern salads (or midwestern desserts, if you prefer to categorize it that way) you can find, and that’s why the dip version is also a mainstay at cookouts, parties and potlucks throughout the Midwest once summertime hits.

There are two major differences between strawberry pretzel salad dip and the traditional recipe: Instead of a buttery and salty crushed pretzel layer on the bottom of the dish, the dip is served with pretzels. Also, our dip recipe lacks strawberry Jell-O and opts for strawberry pie filling instead.

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Ingredients for Strawberry Pretzel Salad Dip

• Cream cheese: Just as in our other favorite dips with cream cheese, the cream cheese in this strawberry pretzel dip adds body, richness and tang.
• Confectioners’ sugar: While some strawberry pretzel salad dip recipes opt for granulated sugar, our recipe uses confectioners’ sugar. It’s more finely milled, so it dissolves into the dip smoothly without leaving a gritty texture.
• Salt: Salt balances the sweetness of the dip and enhances the flavor of the strawberries in the pie filling.
• Vanilla: A splash of pure vanilla extract adds a depth of flavor that complements the strawberries and cream cheese.
• Whipped topping: A tub of whipped topping adds an ethereal fluffiness to this recipe.
• Strawberry pie filling: Forget the Jell-O: You can head to your grocer’s baking aisle for a can of your favorite strawberry pie filling to make this strawberry pretzel dip. If you have any extra, use it to make strawberry dump cake.
• Pretzels: These replace the pretzel crust you’d find in the original 13×9 dessert recipe. The best pretzels for dipping will likely be traditional twists or square-shaped waffle pretzels, as opposed to sticks or rods. Twists and waffles will allow you to scoop up more dip with each bite!

Directions

Step 1: Beat the cream cheese and sugar

Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla and salt on medium-low speed until smooth, two to three minutes.

Editor’s Tip: Let the cream cheese soften until it’s at room temperature. If the cream cheese is too cold, it will not blend smoothly and that will lead to a lumpy dip.

Step 2: Fold in the whipped topping and pie filling

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Using a rubber spatula, gently fold in the whipped topping until evenly incorporated.

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Then, stir in 3/4 cup strawberry pie filling.

Step 3: Swirl in the remaining pie filling

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Transfer the cream cheese mixture to a serving bowl and spread it into an even layer. Top with the remaining strawberry pie filling. Using the end of a sharp knife, swirl the filling to give it a marbled appearance. Cover and chill the dip until ready to serve or enjoy it immediately with pretzels for dipping.

Editor’s Tip: You don’t have to swirl the pie filling. If you prefer, spread it into an even layer over the cream cheese mixture.

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Strawberry Pretzel Salad Dip Variations

• Use homemade pie filling: You can make this recipe with a homemade strawberry pie filling if desired. We like the filling in our strawberry glaze pie recipe.
• Add rhubarb: If you love strawberry rhubarb pie, swap in your favorite strawberry rhubarb pie filling instead. It adds a wonderful tangy taste that helps balance the sweetness of the dip and the saltiness of the pretzels.
• Serve this dip as a no-bake pie filling: Use this dip to make a variation of our favorite no-bake strawberry pretzel pie. Simply fill a 9-inch graham cracker pie crust with the dip and top it with additional strawberry pie filling. Slice the pie into wedges and serve.

How to Store Strawberry Pretzel Salad Dip

Strawberry pretzel salad dip should be stored in an airtight food storage container and kept refrigerated to preserve freshness.

How long does strawberry pretzel salad dip last?

This strawberry pretzel dip will stay fresh for about three days in the refrigerator. You may also freeze this dip for up to two months. Thaw completely in the fridge before serving.

Can you make strawberry pretzel dip ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, this dip is best served once it’s chilled a couple of hours in the fridge and even makes a perfect overnight dessert. Given some chilling time, the mixture thickens slightly and the flavors marry together. If you have an event to prep for, you can make this dip up to 48 hours ahead. Keep it refrigerated until ready to serve.

Strawberry Pretzel Salad Dip Tips

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Can you use homemade whipped cream for strawberry pretzel salad dip?

Yes! This recipe also tastes great using homemade whipped cream instead of frozen whipped topping. Just keep in mind that a substitute for whipped topping doesn’t contain the same stabilizers as Cool Whip, so the dip may deflate and lose some of its body faster.

Can you make strawberry pretzel salad dip gluten-free or dairy-free?

Yes. For a gluten-free strawberry pretzel salad dip, source a strawberry pie filling that is certified gluten-free. For a dairy-free strawberry pretzel dip, swap in your favorite brand of vegan or plant-based alternatives for the whipped topping and cream cheese.