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Lemon Pretzel Dessert Recipe

4.8 from 129 reviews

This Lemon Pretzel Dessert features a crunchy, salty pretzel crust layered with a smooth, sweetened cream cheese filling and topped with tangy lemon pie filling. Garnished with pretzel crumbs, whipped topping, and optional fresh lemon slices, this no-bake dessert is a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and salty flavors that will delight your taste buds with every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Pretzel Crust

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

Cream Cheese Filling

  • 12 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 16 ounces (2 8-ounce containers) whipped topping, thawed (12 ounces for filling, 4 ounces for garnish)
  • 1 medium lemon, thinly sliced into 12 slices (optional garnish)

Lemon Topping

  • 22 ounces lemon pie filling (Lucky Leaf brand recommended)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pretzel Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine 2½ cups of crushed pretzels, ½ cup granulated sugar, and melted butter. Stir well until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan or dish to form an even crust layer. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling to help it set.
  2. Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add ¾ cup granulated sugar, beating until well combined. Fold in 12 ounces of the thawed whipped topping gently to maintain its light texture. Spread this cream cheese filling evenly over the chilled pretzel crust.
  3. Apply the Lemon Topping: Carefully spoon the 22 ounces of lemon pie filling over the cream cheese layer, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
  4. Garnish and Chill: Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup crushed pretzels and dollops of remaining 4 ounces whipped topping over the top. Optionally arrange thin lemon slices for decoration. Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to set firmly.
  5. Serve: Once chilled and firm, cut the dessert into squares and serve chilled for a refreshing, tangy, and crunchy treat.

Notes

  • Use crushed pretzels with finely crushed texture for the best crust binding.
  • Ensure cream cheese is fully softened for a creamy, smooth filling.
  • Chill the dessert thoroughly to allow layers to set properly before serving.
  • Optional lemon slices enhance presentation and add a fresh citrus aroma.
  • This dessert is best served cold and should be stored in the refrigerator.

Keywords: lemon dessert, pretzel crust dessert, no-bake lemon dessert, creamy lemon dessert, easy summer dessert