Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the pretzels are evenly coated.
Press the pretzel mixture into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish to form a crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove and allow to cool completely.
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and remaining ¼ cup of granulated sugar. Whisk together until smooth and creamy.
Add the powdered sugar and whipped topping to the cream cheese mixture. Beat with a hand mixer or stand mixer until well combined.
Once the pretzel crust is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust.
In another bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in 2 cups of boiling water. Stir in the sliced strawberries. Let the mixture cool for about 10 minutes.
Pour the strawberry mixture over the cream cheese layer in the baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or until set.
Slice into squares and serve chilled.