Indulge in the perfect blend of sweet, salty, and creamy with this delectable strawberry pretzel ice cream cake!
This irresistible dessert features layers of crunchy pretzel crust, creamy vanilla ice cream, and luscious strawberry sauce, all topped off with a generous dollop of whipped cream.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a decadent treat, this strawberry pretzel ice cream cake is sure to impress.
With its combination of textures and flavors, it’s bound to become a new favorite among family and friends.
Ingredients
Pretzel Crust:
- Pretzels, crushed – 2 cups
- Unsalted butter, melted – 3/4 cup
- Granulated sugar – 1/4 cup
Strawberry Sauce:
- Fresh strawberries, chopped – 2 cups
- Granulated sugar – 1/4 cup
- Water – 2 tablespoons
- Cornstarch – 1 tablespoon
Assembly:
- Vanilla ice cream – 1 quart
- Whipped cream, for topping
Equipment
- 9-inch springform pan
- Mixing bowl
- Saucepan
- Blender or food processor
- Spatula
Instructions
Prepare Pretzel Crust:
In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, melted unsalted butter, and granulated sugar until well combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form the crust.
Place in the freezer to set while you prepare the strawberry sauce.
Make Strawberry Sauce:
In a saucepan, combine the chopped fresh strawberries, granulated sugar, water, and cornstarch.
Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries break down and the mixture thickens into a sauce-like consistency.
Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Layer Ice Cream and Strawberry Sauce:
Once the pretzel crust has set, spread a layer of vanilla ice cream over the crust in the springform pan.
Pour the strawberry sauce over the ice cream layer and spread evenly.
Freeze:
Place the assembled ice cream cake in the freezer and let it freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
Serve:
Before serving, remove the ice cream cake from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly.
Release the sides of the springform pan and transfer the cake to a serving plate.
Top with whipped cream and additional pretzels, if desired. Slice and serve immediately.
Nutritional Facts
Servings: 8
Calories per serving: Approximately 380
Total Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 320mg
Total Carbohydrates: 44g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Total Sugars: 29g
Protein: 4g
Health Benefits
The “Strawberry Pretzel Ice Cream Cake Recipe” may not be as inherently healthy as some other dishes, but it can still offer some health benefits depending on its ingredients and portion size:
Strawberries:
Strawberries are a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.
They promote heart health, support immune function, and may help reduce inflammation.
Including strawberries in the ice cream cake adds natural sweetness and nutritional value.
Pretzels:
While pretzels are a source of carbohydrates and sodium, they are typically lower in fat than other snack options.
Choosing whole grain or whole wheat pretzels adds fiber and nutrients to the cake, promoting satiety and supporting digestive health.
Portion Control:
Enjoying the strawberry pretzel ice cream cake in moderation can help prevent overconsumption of calories and unhealthy fats.
Practicing portion control allows you to indulge in your favorite treats without compromising your health goals.
Homemade vs. Store-bought:
Making the ice cream cake at home allows you to control the ingredients and customize the recipe to suit your dietary preferences.
You can choose healthier options like low-fat ice cream, Greek yogurt, or natural sweeteners to reduce the overall sugar and calorie content of the cake.
Mindful Eating:
Being mindful of your eating habits and savoring each bite of the ice cream cake can enhance the overall dining experience.
Taking the time to enjoy the flavors and textures of the cake can help prevent overeating and promote satisfaction.
Social and Emotional Health:
Sharing homemade treats like strawberry pretzel ice cream cake with friends and family can strengthen social bonds and foster a sense of community.
Enjoying special occasions and celebrations with loved ones contributes to overall well-being and happiness.
While strawberry pretzel ice cream cake may not be considered a health food, it can still be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet and lifestyle.
Making mindful choices about ingredients and portion sizes allows you to indulge in your favorite treats while still prioritizing your health and well-being.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to thaw them before using in the strawberry sauce.
2. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the ice cream cake ahead of time and keep it in the freezer until ready to serve.
3. Can I use a different flavor of ice cream?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different flavors of ice cream to customize this dessert to your liking.
4. How should I store leftovers?
Any leftover ice cream cake can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in the freezer for up to one week.
5. Can I omit the pretzel crust for a gluten-free option?
Yes, you can omit the pretzel crust or use a gluten-free pretzel alternative to make this dessert gluten-free.