PREHEAT oven to 400 degrees F.

CRUST: Crumble pretzels in food processor

MIX CRUST: melt 3/4 cup butter and combine with ground pretzels and 3 tablespoons of sugar, (you can do this in the food processor or in a mixing bowl

MAKE & BAKE: Press the crust mixture into a 9 by 13-inch pan and bake for 8-10 minutes. Set aside and allow to cool.

WHIP CREAM: If making homemade whipping cream, you can whip that up now.

CREAM CHEESE MIXTURE: In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and 3/4 cup of sugar. Fold in the whipped cream, and spread over the cooled crust. Refrigerate until well chilled (approximately 4 hours).

GELATIN: In a small bowl, dissolve the gelatin in the boiling water, and allow to cool slightly, (alternately, half the water as boiling water and mix well; add second half as cold water and mix well. This will speed up the gelatin firming action.

AFTER 4 HOURS: Place sliced strawberries on top of cheese layer.

ADD GELATIN: Gently pour the liquid gelatin mixture over the strawberries and cream cheese layers. Refrigerate until serving time.

SERVE: To serve, cut slices and serve with a dollop of whipped topping.