🥨 Step 1: Make the Pretzel Crust

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Crush pretzels and combine with melted butter and sugar.
3. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool completely.

🧁 Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

1. Beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
2. Fold in whipped topping gently.
3. Spread over cooled crust, sealing to the edges to prevent Jello seepage.

🍓 Step 3: Prepare the Jello Layer

1. Dissolve Jello mix in boiling water, then stir in cold water.
2. Let it cool to room temperature (important!).

🍓 Step 4: Add Strawberries & Assemble

1. Layer sliced strawberries over the cream cheese layer.
2. Pour cooled Jello mixture gently over strawberries.
3. Chill for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, until fully set.

🍰 Step 5: Slice & Serve

1. Cut into squares, serve with optional whipped cream and fresh strawberry garnish.

Recipe Notes

1. For gluten-free: Use gluten-free pretzels.
2. For dairy-free/vegan: Use plant-based butter, dairy-free cream cheese, coconut whipped topping, and vegan gelatin.
3. Don’t skip cooling times between layers—it ensures perfect separation.
4. This dessert is best served cold and made ahead of time.