Bake Crunch: Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Mix crushed pretzels, melted butter, and brown sugar. Spread on a lined baking sheet and bake for 7 minutes. Let cool completely, then crumble.
Mix Base: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, white sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Fold Together: Gently fold the thawed whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture, followed by the diced strawberries.
Assemble: Just before serving, fold half of the cooled pretzel crumble into the salad. Transfer to a serving bowl and top with the remaining crumble.
