In a medium bowl, mix the crushed pretzels, melted butter, and 1/4 cup of sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar until smooth. Add the whipped topping and mix until combined. Spread this mixture over the cooled pretzel crust.
In a small bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in 2 cups of boiling water. Let it cool for about 30 minutes before pouring it over the cream cheese layer.
Top with fresh sliced strawberries and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
For an extra touch, you can also garnish with extra whipped topping and additional pretzel pieces.