Cranberry Cream Cheese Streusel Bars

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Step 2

In a large bowl of an electric mixer, beat together the butter and flour until crumbly and combined thoroughly. Transfer the mixture to an ungreased 13x9 inch baking dish and pat the crust firmly and evenly into the dish using your hands. Bake for 15 minutes, remove and allow to cool completely.

Step 3

In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat together the cream cheese and sugar until smooth on medium speed. Add the egg and vanilla and continue beating until combined. Set aside.

Step 4

In a medium bowl, using a pastry blender, combine the flour, confectioners' sugar, butter and salt until the mixture comes together and forms coarse crumbs. Using your hands or a fork, toss until the ingredients are combined and set aside.

Step 5

Once the crust has cooled, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of the crust leaving a 1/4 inch edge all the way around. Spread a thin layer of cranberry sauce over the cream cheese and then sprinkle the streusel topping over the entire top. Bake for 40 minutes, remove and cool completely. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and let it set overnight before cutting into squares.

Step 6

Store in an airtight container.