Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the crust will bake evenly and achieve a nice golden color.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine 2 cups of crushed pretzels, 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter, and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Mix well until the pretzels are fully coated in the butter and sugar mixture.
3. Press into Dish: Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and press the pretzel mixture firmly into the bottom to create an even crust. Ensure it’s packed tightly for the best texture.
4. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. This will help the crust firm up and develop a slightly crispy texture. Once baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

1. Mix Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 1 package of softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. This step is crucial for achieving a silky texture in your filling.
2. Add Sugar and Topping: Gradually add 1 cup of powdered sugar to the cream cheese, mixing until well combined. Then, gently fold in 1 (8 oz) container of whipped topping until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
3. Spread Over Crust: Once the pretzel crust has cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust, ensuring it reaches the edges for a balanced flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Layer

1. Dissolve Gelatin: In a separate bowl, dissolve 1 (3 oz) package of lemon gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved, which usually takes just a few minutes.
2. Add Cold Water: Once dissolved, add 1 cup of cold water to the gelatin mixture and stir well to combine. This will help cool down the mixture.
3. Combine with Lemon Filling: Next, add 1 (21 oz) can of lemon pie filling or lemon curd to the gelatin mixture. Stir until everything is well incorporated and you have a smooth lemon layer.
4. Pour Over Cream Cheese Layer: Carefully pour the lemon mixture over the cream cheese layer in the baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly if necessary.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

1. Chill: Cover the dessert with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until the lemon layer is set. This chilling time is essential for the layers to firm up properly.
2. Top with Whipped Topping: Before serving, spread the remaining 1 cup of whipped topping over the lemon layer for a beautiful finish.
3. Slice and Serve: Cut into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures that make Lemon Pretzel Salad a hit!