Cherry Pretzel Whip

2 1/2 cups crushed pretzels
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar, divided
1 cup butter, melted
8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
2 (8 ounce) containers frozen whipped topping
1 (30 ounce) can cherry pie filling

In a large bowl, mix pretzels crumbs, 3/4 cup sugar and butter. Remove 1/2 cup of mixture and reserve. Press remaining mixture in the bottom of a 13 x 9-inch baking pan to form a crust.

In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese and 1 cup of sugar until smooth. Fold in whipped topping to combine. Spread half of the whipped topping mixture over pretzel crust. Spread cherry pie filling over entire surface. Top with remaining whipped topping mixture and smooth top. Sprinkle remaining pretzel mixture over top. Chill for several hours before serving.