Strawberry Pretzel Salad for 16 Servings

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Combine crushed pretzels, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar in a medium bowl until the mixture resembles wet sand.
3. Press the pretzel mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish and bake for 10 minutes until edges are mahogany-colored.
4. Allow the crust to cool completely before adding the filling.
5. Using a hand mixer, beat softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup sugar until smooth and lump-free.
6. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until well combined, then spread evenly over the cooled pretzel crust.
7. Dissolve strawberry gelatin in 2 cups of boiling water, then stir in 1 cup of cold water.
8. Fold in sliced fresh strawberries into the gelatin mixture and pour carefully over the cream cheese layer.
9. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until the strawberry layer is fully set.