Let’s just say this: If your childhood included potlucks, baby showers, or church basement gatherings… you know about strawberry pretzel salad.

This version? It’s got all the charm and flavor of the original—but made with better ingredients you can feel good about. The crunchy pretzel crust, light and creamy middle layer, and fresh strawberry topping hit all the right notes.

And when you cut them into neat little squares? Oh girl… they’re the first thing gone at any get-together.

📝 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the crust:

• 2 cups crushed gluten-free pretzels

• ¼ cup melted butter or coconut oil

• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey

For the creamy layer:

• 8 oz cream cheese or dairy-free alternative, softened

• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt

• ¼ cup maple syrup or honey

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the strawberry layer:

• 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries

• ½ cup water

• 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp arrowroot or cornstarch (for thickening)

👩‍🍳 How to Make It

1. Make the crust:
   Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix crushed pretzels, melted butter, and sweetener. Press into a parchment-lined 8x8 dish and bake for 8–10 minutes. Let cool completely.

2. Make the creamy layer:
   In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese, yogurt, maple syrup, and vanilla until smooth. Spread evenly over the cooled crust. Chill in the fridge while you prep the topping.

3. Make the strawberry layer:
   In a saucepan, combine strawberries, water, maple syrup, and lemon juice. Simmer for 5–7 minutes. Stir in arrowroot to thicken. Let cool slightly, then spoon over the creamy layer.

4. Chill:
   Refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours until set. Slice into squares and serve!

💡 Sarah’s Tips

• Make ahead: These taste even better after chilling overnight.

• Dairy-free version: Use plant-based cream cheese and yogurt.

• No arrowroot? Use cornstarch or tapioca starch to thicken.

• Add crunch: Save a handful of crushed pretzels to sprinkle on top before serving!

🍓 A Sweet Slice of Nostalgia (With a Healthy Twist)

This recipe is proof that you can enjoy the treats you grew up with—without the sugar crash or processed ingredients. It’s sweet, salty, creamy, and just so fun to eat.

Whether you’re making it for a party, a picnic, or just because it’s Tuesday, these Strawberry Pretzel Salad Squares are sure to bring back memories—and make new ones.