Name: Lemon Pretzel Dessert
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups crushed pretzels; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 3 tablespoons granulated sugar; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip); 2 (3.4 oz) packages instant lemon pudding mix; 2 1/2 cups cold milk; 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional for garnish)

Why You’ll Love Lemon Pretzel Dessert Recipe

This dessert has a satisfyingly crunchy base, a rich cream cheese middle, and a zesty lemon topping that tastes like sunshine. It’s great for potlucks, gatherings, or any time you want a show-stopping dessert that’s both easy to make and impressive to serve. The layers balance each other beautifully so every bite is flavorful and refreshing.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pretzel Crust
• 2¾ cups crushed pretzels (divide 2½ cups for crust and ¼ cup for garnish)
• 1¼ cups granulated sugar (divide ½ cup for crust and ¾ cup for cream cheese filling)
• ¾ cup salted butter, melted and cooled

Cream Cheese Filling
• 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 16 ounces whipped topping, thawed (divide 12 ounces for filling and 4 ounces for garnish)
• 1 medium lemon, thinly sliced into 12 slices (optional garnish)

Lemon Topping
• 22 ounces lemon pie filling (you can use lemon curd or instant lemon pudding as alternatives)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
In a medium bowl, combine 2½ cups crushed pretzels and ½ cup granulated sugar. Pour in the melted butter and mix until evenly coated.
Press the pretzel mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and let it cool completely.
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the remaining ¾ cup sugar and mix until combined. Gently fold in 12 ounces of whipped topping.
Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled pretzel crust, making sure to cover it completely to prevent the topping from seeping through.
Spread the lemon pie filling over the cream cheese layer. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully set.
Before serving, cut into 12 squares. Top each piece with a dollop of whipped topping, a sprinkle of crushed pretzels, and a lemon slice if desired.

Servings and timing

• Serves: 12
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Chill and rest time: 4 hours 30 minutes
• Total time: 4 hours 55 minutes

Variations

• Extra Lemon Twist – Add 1–2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice to the lemon pie filling for a more vibrant citrus flavor.
• Alternate Crust – Swap out the pretzel base with crushed graham crackers, shortbread cookies, or golden Oreos for a sweeter twist.
• Different Toppings – Try different fruit fillings like cherry, raspberry, blueberry, or apple pie filling for a new take on the classic.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate the dessert covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 2–3 days. Allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving. This dessert is best enjoyed cold and should not be frozen, as freezing can alter the texture of the pretzel crust and cream layers.

FAQs

What is lemon pretzel dessert?

Lemon pretzel dessert is a chilled layered dessert with a salty-sweet pretzel crust, creamy cheesecake-style filling, and tangy lemon topping.

Can I use store-bought lemon curd instead of lemon pie filling?

Yes, lemon curd works well and gives a slightly richer and tangier flavor compared to lemon pie filling.

How long does it need to chill?

It should chill for at least 4 hours, but overnight chilling is ideal for the layers to set completely.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. This dessert is perfect for making a day ahead, which allows the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up nicely.

What size pan is recommended?

A 9×13-inch baking dish is perfect for this recipe, giving you even layers and clean slices.

Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?

You can slightly reduce the sugar, especially in the cream cheese layer, but doing so may alter the sweetness balance and texture.

How should I crush the pretzels?

Crush the pretzels using a food processor or place them in a zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, though the filling may be slightly less rich and creamy.

Is this dessert served cold or warm?

It is served cold, straight from the refrigerator, for the best flavor and texture.

How long will leftovers last in the refrigerator?

Leftovers will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 2 to 3 days if stored properly in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Lemon Pretzel Dessert is the perfect balance of tangy, creamy, and crunchy. With minimal prep and impressive flavor, it’s an ideal dessert for summer picnics, holiday tables, or whenever you need a light and refreshing treat. It’s easy to customize, simple to store, and always a hit with a crowd.