This mandarin orange pretzel parfait is my new favorite no-bake dessert! They have the perfect combination of sweet and salty with a creamy cheesecake filling in the middle.
Table of Contents
Orange Gelatin Pretzel Salad
This mandarin orange pretzel parfait dessert was inspired by the raspberry pretzel “salad” my mom makes every year for Christmas, which is one of my favorites! I thought it would be fun to try something different and make a version with mandarin oranges. Especially since my kids eat mandarin oranges like they are going out of style!
I also thought it would be fun to make a pretzel salad in a mini dessert size because everything is cuter in little cups and it makes it easier to set out the day of. I loved adding the mandarin oranges on top for a decorative (and delicious) touch. You could even do little mason jars, but less dishes is always a good idea in my book.
Mandarin Orange Dessert Layers
Pretzel layer. The bottom layer is the pretzel pie crust. It’s a simple mixture of crushed pretzels, melted butter and sugar. Then all you do is press 2 Tablespoons of the mixture into the bottom of each cup or jar.
Cheesecake layer. The second layer is a delicious cheesecake filling. You’ll simply mix together softened cream cheese, whipped topping and sugar until smooth. Next add about 1/4 cup of the mixture on top of the pretzel crust and smooth the top with the back of a spoon so that it touches all edges of the cup. Then place in the freezer for about 20 minutes.
Jello layer. The final layer is a delicious mandarin gelatin. All you need to do to make it is place the flavored gelatin into boiling water and stir for one minute. Then you’ll stir cold ice water into the hot gelatin mixture and continue stirring until it starts to thicken. Let the mixture refrigerate for about 5 minutes, then pour it on top of the cheesecake layer and add in a few mandarin oranges. Then place back in the refrigerator until the gelatin has fully set.
Decorations and Modifications
- You could leave these cups plain or add whipped cream on top! But who are we kidding… whipped cream is always a good idea!
- If you’re really feeling fancy, you could add an extra orange and mint leaf on top (like the picture below).
- Feel free to use a different type of fresh fruit and gelatin flavor, such as raspberry or make strawberry pretzel salad.
- You could layer the ingredients in a baking dish instead of the individual cups if preferred.
Storing
These mandarin orange pretzel parfait cups will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Just make sure to cover the tops with plastic wrap before storing.
More Easy No-Bake Desserts
HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to my newsletter and follow on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram for all the newest recipes!
No-Bake Mandarin Orange Pretzel Parfait
Ingredients
Layer 1:
- 1 cup crushed pretzels
- ½ cup salted butter , melted
- 2 Tablespoons granulated sugar
Layer 2:
- 8 ounce package cream cheese , softened
- 1 ½ cups whipped topping
- 6 Tablespoons granulated sugar
Layer 3:
- 6 ounce package orange flavored gelatin
- 11 ounce can mandarin oranges
Instructions
- Combine the pretzels, butter and sugar for layer 1 in a small bowl. Then press 2 Tablespoons into a small 8-ounce cup or jar.
- For the second layer, mix the cream cheese, whipped topping and sugar. Then add about 1/4 cup of the mixture onto the pretzel layer and smooth the layer with the back of a spoon, so it is touching all edges of the cup. Place in the freezer for 20 minutes.
- For the third layer, get 3/4 cup boiling hot water. Then place the flavored gelatin into the water and stir for 1 minute, or until it has dissolved. Then add ice to 1/2 cup cold water, until it makes 1 1/2 cups. Stir cold water into the hot water and keep stirring until it starts to thicken. Add more ice if needed. Refrigerate for about 5 minutes. Then pour onto top of the cream layer and top with mandarin oranges. Place back in the refrigerator until it has set.
- Enjoy with whipped cream on top if desired.
Nutrition
Nutrition provided is an estimate. It will vary based on specific ingredients used.
Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to give it a star rating below!
Categorized as: American, Desserts, Fruit Desserts, Mini, No-Bake
Jamielyn Nye is the founder and recipe creator at I Heart Naptime. She is the author of the I Heart Naptime Cookbook and shares easy family-friendly recipes and desserts for every occasion.
This recipe should have more stars!!! I made it mostly because it matched for the baby shower only to be completely surprised that it isn’t just good, it’s GREAT! It was a total HIT!!!! So many people asked for the recipe!
So glad you enjoyed it and that it was a hit at the party! Thanks for sharing it around, too, most appreciated!
I’m hosting a “Cutie-themed” baby shower. I’m so excited about making these mandarin orange pretzel parfaits.
What a fun theme! They will be perfect Patti :)
Made these for my daughters twin baby shower & they were a huge hit!! Everyone Loved them so easy to make & everyone had their own individual cute dessert. I highly recommend this recipe.
Can this be made in a dish and not individually and what size?
Sure! I would try a 9×9″ baking dish
How many cups does this make?
It makes 10 servings :)
Sweet and salty is my FAVORITE! This dessert is easy and delicious. We’ll totally make it again.
This recipe just shouts summer and perfect for here in Florida I even have a mandarin tree thanks for the recipe!
Fantastic recipe. Made this for Christmas and everyone enjoyed it! nice and light desert!
I’m so glad everyone enjoyed it! Thanks for your comment and review. :)
Tried this, super yummy! Thanks for the recipe
Love how bright and happy these are! They’d be such a hit!
I’m all for No Bake desserts! This is such a great after school snack for kids!
I love strawberry pretzel salad, but this one would be perfect for the holidays. I can’t wait to make it!
I need to make these ASAP! I love them!
What a gorgeous and simple sweet to make in advance for the upcoming holidays! It’s so bright and cheery, and I bet kids and adults alike adore it. :)
These look so fun! It’s been ages since I had pretzel jello salad. Need to make this soon!
Oh my gosh, this looks amazing. and it doesnt look too tricky, which I like the most :) I will definitely try this. My boys will love it, Im sure :)