Strawberry Pretzel Squares

Strawberry Pretzel Squares are one of those desserts that you want to make when you want something sweet and salty and fruity all at the same time.  And they're pretty...so I like them.  

2 cups finely crushed pretzels

1/2 cup sugar, divided

2/3 cup butter, melted

1 1/2 (8oz. each) package cream cheese, softened

2 tablespoons milk

1 cup cool whip, thawed or homemade whipped cream

2 cups boiling water

1 (6oz.) package strawberry gelatin

1 1/2 cups cold water

1 qt. fresh strawberries, sliced

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Crust:

Mix pretzel crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar and butter.  Press into bottom of 9x13 inch baking dish.  Bake 10 minutes.  Cool completely.

Cream Cheese Layer:
Beat cream cheese, remaining sugar, and milk until smooth.  Fold in cool whip and spread over crust.  Refrigerate.

Strawberry Layer:

In a large mixing bowl, combine boiling water and strawberry gelatin.  Stir 2 minutes, until completely dissolved.  Stir in cold water.  Refrigerate 1 1/2 hours or until thickened.  Stir in strawberries and spoon over cream cheese layer.  Refrigerate 3 hours or until firm.