Strawberry Cream Cheese Slab Pie Squares are the perfect balance of soft pastry, creamy filling, and sweet fruit flavor. Baked in a large pan and cut into generous squares, this dessert is ideal for feeding a crowd while keeping everything simple and rustic. The golden, buttery dough bakes up tender on the inside with lightly crisp edges, while the strawberry filling melts into the cream cheese layer for a rich, comforting bite.
This type of slab pie is inspired by classic home-style baking—no fancy shaping, no complicated steps, just honest ingredients that come together beautifully in the oven. It’s the kind of dessert you’ll see at family gatherings, bake sales, potlucks, and weekend tables, disappearing faster than expected.
Why Strawberry Cream Cheese Slab Pie Is So Loved
This dessert works because it combines three flavors everyone loves: buttery pastry, lightly sweetened cream cheese, and fruity strawberry filling. Baking everything together allows the layers to blend slightly, creating a soft, jammy center with a golden top that feels both rich and comforting.
It’s especially popular because:
- It’s easy to slice and serve
- It stays soft even after cooling
- It tastes great warm or cold
- It’s perfect for sharing
Ingredients
For the dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup strawberry preserves or jam
For the topping
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
How to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese Slab Pie Squares
Step 1: Prepare the pan and oven
Preheat the oven to 180°C / 350°F. Grease a large rectangular baking pan (about 9×13 inches) or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the dough
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold butter and cut it into the flour using a pastry cutter or fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Pour in the milk and vanilla extract, stirring just until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix.
Step 3: Assemble the base
Divide the dough into two portions. Press the first portion evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan, creating a smooth base layer.
Step 4: Prepare the cream cheese layer
In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until smooth and creamy. Spread this mixture evenly over the dough base.
Step 5: Add the strawberry filling
Spoon the strawberry preserves over the cream cheese layer and gently spread it out. Small pockets of jam are fine and add character to the final result.
Step 6: Top with dough
Flatten pieces of the remaining dough and place them gently over the filling, covering most of the surface. It doesn’t need to be perfect—slight gaps allow the filling to peek through.
Step 7: Finish and bake
Brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle with sugar. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are set.
Remove from the oven and let cool for at least 20–30 minutes before slicing.
Tips for Perfect Slab Pie Squares
- Use cold butter for tender pastry
- Avoid overmixing the dough
- Let the slab cool before cutting for cleaner squares
- Use thick jam to prevent excess spreading
Serving Suggestions
Strawberry Cream Cheese Slab Pie Squares are delicious:
- Served warm with coffee or tea
- Chilled for a firmer, cheesecake-like texture
- Dusted lightly with powdered sugar
- Paired with vanilla ice cream
Storage and Make-Ahead
- Room temperature: Up to 1 day, covered
- Refrigerator: Up to 4 days in an airtight container
- Freezer: Freeze sliced squares for up to 2 months
To reheat, warm briefly in the oven at 160°C / 325°F.
Easy Variations
- Raspberry or cherry: Swap the strawberry jam
- Mixed berry: Use a berry blend preserve
- Citrus twist: Add lemon zest to the cream cheese
- Extra rich: Add a drizzle of glaze after baking
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned pie filling?
Yes, but thick preserves give better texture and less moisture.
Do these need refrigeration?
Because of the cream cheese, refrigeration is recommended after the first day.
Can I cut them smaller?
Absolutely. These bars work well in small or large squares.