Strawberry Pretzel Pecan Crunch (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Salad Base

01 - 2 to 3 cups strawberries, diced
02 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
03 - 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping, thawed
04 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
05 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Crunch Topping

06 - 1 cup pretzels, chopped
07 - 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
08 - 3/4 cup brown sugar
09 - 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

# Instructions:

01 - Wash strawberries thoroughly and dice into small pieces. Set aside for later use.
02 - Preheat oven to 200°C. Combine chopped pretzels, chopped pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter in a medium bowl. Spread mixture evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet with edges. Bake for 7 to 9 minutes, monitoring closely to prevent burning. Remove from oven, stir, and allow to cool completely.
03 - In a large mixing bowl, whip softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until uniformly combined.
04 - Just before serving, fold diced strawberries and the cooled crunch topping into the cream cheese mixture. Mix gently to preserve texture. Serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - Ensure the pretzel and pecan crunch is completely cooled before folding into the mixture to maintain a crisp texture.