Strawberries and Cream Cookie Squares

I found this recipe on Real Mom Kitchen and new I had to try it. Any recipe with "strawberries and cream" is a must try for me. I thought they were absolutely delicious! Perfect for a summer treat. I brought them to a family get together and got great reviews.

Sorry about the picture. I had to have my brother in law take it with his phone because I didn't have my camera. At least I got a picture though!

Strawberries and Cream Dessert Squares

Crust

1/2 cup butter; room temp.

• 1 cups sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 2 1/2 cups flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp soda
• Filling
• 1 cup white vanilla baking chips (6 oz)
• 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• Topping
• 4 cups sliced fresh strawberries
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/3 cup water

10 to 12 drops red food color, if desired

Heat oven to 375°F. Grease a 15x10x1- or 13x9-inch pan.Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing after each egg. Add vanilla & mix well. In a separate bowl combine flour, salt & soda & stir with a whisk to combine. Add to wet mixture and mix just until combined. Spread on a greased baking sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for 10-15 min, until light golden brown or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely, about 30 minutes.

In small microwavable bowl, microwave baking chips uncovered on High 45 to 60 seconds or until chips are melted and can be stirred smooth. In medium bowl, beat cream cheese with electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Stir in melted chips until blended. Spread mixture over crust. Refrigerate while making topping.

In small bowl, crush 1 cup of the strawberries. In 2-quart saucepan, mix sugar and cornstarch. Stir in crushed strawberries and 1/3 cup water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture boils and thickens. Stir in food color. Cool 10 minutes. Gently stir in remaining 3 cups strawberries. Spoon topping over filling. Refrigerate 1 hour or until set; serve within 4 hours. Store covered in refrigerator.