Name: Apple Cinnamon Pretzel Salad Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups pretzels, finely ground; 12 tbsp butter, melted; ⅓ cup sugar; 16 oz cream cheese, room temperature; 8 oz whipping cream; 1 ½ cups powdered sugar; 5 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and thinly sliced; ½ lemon, juiced; 1 cup sugar; Pinch of salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/16 tsp ground cloves; 1/16 tsp ground nutmeg; ½ cup water; 2 tbsp cornstarch; 3 tbsp water (for slurry)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 13 reviews

If you’re on the lookout for a dessert that truly wows with a mix of textures and flavors, this Apple Cinnamon Pretzel Salad Recipe is an absolute gem. Imagine the salty crunch of a perfectly baked pretzel crust, a smooth, creamy filling that melts in your mouth, and a warmly spiced apple topping that tastes like autumn on a plate. It’s not just any dessert; it’s a delightful crowd-pleaser that balances sweet, tangy, and rich notes in every single bite. Whether for a family gathering or a casual treat, this dish promises a unique twist on both apple desserts and classic pretzel flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows three clear glass bowls and one transparent food processor bowl on a wooden cutting board placed on a white marbled surface. The food processor bowl is filled with finely ground oats or oat flour, light beige in color with a slightly coarse texture. Below it, there are two smaller glass bowls; the one on the left contains pale yellow softened butter, in two small pieces, smooth and creamy looking, while the bowl on the right holds a heap of fine white granulated sugar with a slightly shiny texture. The scene is lit softly, showing the natural colors and textures clearly with a top-down view. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients for this Apple Cinnamon Pretzel Salad Recipe together is a breeze, yet each one plays an essential role in the final outcome. From the buttery pretzel base to the creamy filling and spiced apples on top, every component adds its own magic to the dish.

4 cups pretzels finely ground: Creates a crunchy, salty crust that perfectly contrasts the sweet filling.
12 tbsp butter melted: Binds the pretzel crust together and adds richness.
⅓ cup sugar: Enhances the crust with a touch of sweetness.
16 oz cream cheese room temperature: Provides the creamy, tangy base for the filling.
8 oz whipping cream: Adds lightness and fluffiness to the filling.
1 ½ cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling without graininess.
5 cups Granny Smith apples peeled and sliced thin: Offers tartness and texture for the apple topping.
½ lemon juiced: Keeps the apples fresh and brightens the flavor.
1 cup sugar: Sweetens the apple mixture perfectly.
Pinch of salt: Balances the sweet and savory elements.
1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds that signature warm spice we all love.
1/16 tsp ground cloves: Provides subtle depth and aroma.
1/16 tsp ground nutmeg: Complements the cinnamon with a hint of nutty spice.
½ cup water: Helps cook the apples down into a tender, saucy filling.
2 tbsp cornstarch + 3 tbsp water for slurry: Thickens the apple filling to just the right consistency.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Pretzel Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F, which sets the stage for the pretzel base to get that perfect crunchy texture. Combine the melted butter, finely ground pretzels, and sugar in a bowl until everything is nicely coated and can hold together. Press this mixture firmly into a 9×13-inch casserole dish; a good, even layer is key for that satisfying initial crunch. Bake it for 10 minutes until golden and fragrant, then remove and allow it to cool completely – this step ensures the crust firms up properly.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

Next, whip up an irresistibly smooth filling. Beat the cream cheese until it’s perfectly creamy without any lumps—this is what gives the salad that luscious texture. Add powdered sugar and mix well to blend sweetness evenly throughout. Slowly incorporate the whipping cream, mixing gently but thoroughly until the filling feels light, fluffy, and creamy. Pour this heavenly mix over your cooled pretzel crust and smooth it out to create an even layer.

Step 3: Cook the Apple Pie Filling

The star topping of this Apple Cinnamon Pretzel Salad Recipe is the warm apple pie filling that bursts with cozy spices. Combine the thinly sliced Granny Smith apples with lemon juice, sugar, salt, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and water in a large pot. Cook over medium heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften nicely but still hold a bit of their shape. Mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry, then stir it into the apple mixture to thicken things up. Keep cooking for a few minutes, stirring constantly, until the filling reaches that perfect spreadable consistency. Remove it from the heat and let it cool completely before using.

Step 4: Assemble and Chill

Once the apple filling has cooled, spread it evenly over the creamy layer. This neat layering is what gives the salad its beautiful, inviting appearance. Pop the assembled dish into the fridge for at least one hour—chilling helps everything to set, making slicing and serving a breeze. When it’s ready, use a sharp knife to cut into generous squares, revealing all the delicious layers.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Pretzel Salad Recipe

A square dessert bar sits on a white plate with a crumbly light brown base as the bottom layer, followed by a thick, creamy white middle layer. The top layer is made of soft, chunky apple pieces covered in a glossy, light brown caramel-like sauce that slightly drips down the sides. The white marbled surface underneath the plate adds a clean look, with blurred green and red apples in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate the presentation and add an extra touch of flavor, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts for additional crunch. A light dusting of cinnamon or even a few thin apple slices on top can make it look irresistible. Whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce also pairs beautifully for those who want an extra indulgent twist.

Side Dishes

This salad is versatile enough to stand on its own, but if you’re serving it as part of a larger spread, it’s lovely alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea. It also complements fall-themed meals or brunches beautifully, making a great sweet contrast to savory dishes like roasted turkey or spiced ham.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests, serve the Apple Cinnamon Pretzel Salad Recipe in individual clear glass cups or parfait glasses to showcase the enticing layers. For a festive touch, add a cinnamon stick or a sprig of fresh mint as a topper. This presentation makes it perfect for gatherings and holiday celebrations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this Apple Cinnamon Pretzel Salad Recipe store wonderfully in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It should stay fresh for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy the flavors at their best without worrying about drying out.

Freezing

While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions if needed. Be sure to wrap them securely to avoid freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving, though note the crust might lose some crunch after freezing.

Reheating

This dessert is designed to be served cold, so reheating is not recommended. Instead, allow chilled leftovers to come to a slightly warmer temperature at room temperature for about 10 minutes if you prefer.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide a wonderful tartness and firm texture, you can substitute with Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for a sweeter or mildly tart profile. Just be mindful that softness levels might vary.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! You can swap cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut cream instead of whipping cream. The texture may slightly differ but the flavors will still shine beautifully.

How long does the apple filling take to thicken?

After adding the cornstarch slurry, the filling typically thickens within 2 to 3 minutes of constant stirring. Don’t rush this step, as proper thickening prevents a soggy salad.

Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?

Definitely! You can make the crust and apple filling a day ahead. Just store them separately and assemble right before serving to keep everything fresh.

What’s the best way to crush pretzels finely?

Using a food processor is quick and efficient, but if you don’t have one, placing pretzels in a sealed plastic bag and crushing with a rolling pin works just as well.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cinnamon Pretzel Salad Recipe is such a joyful treat to make and share. It takes simple ingredients and layers them into a delightful dessert that feels indulgent but approachable. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how the sweet, creamy, and crunchy layers come alive together. Your friends and family are going to be asking for seconds, guaranteed!