Orange Gelatin Pretzel Salad

By june

Ingredients

• 2 cups crushed pretzels
• 3 tsp plus 3/4 cup sugar, divided
• 3/4 cup butter, melted
• 2 pkgs (3 oz each) orange gelatin
• 2 cups boiling water
• 2 cans (8 oz each) crushed pineapple, drained
• 1 can (11 oz) mandarin oranges, drained
• 1 pkg (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 2 cups whipped topping
• Additional whipped topping, optional

Preparation

Step 1

In a small bowl, combine pretzels and 3 tsp sugar; stir in butter. Press into an ungreased 13-in x 9-in x 2-in baking dish. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes. Cool on a wire rack.
In a large bowl, dissolve gelatin in boiling water. Add pineapple and oranges. Chill until partially set; about 30 minutes.
In a small mixing bowl; beat cream cheese and remaining sugar until smooth. Fold in whipped topping. Spread over crust. Gently spoon gelatin mixture over cream cheese layer. Cover and refrigerate for 2-4 hours or until firm. Cut into squares. Garnish with additional whipped topping if desired.