Creamy Vanilla Bars

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 9 inch square baking dish with parchment paper.

Step 2

Soften butter by placing in a large microwavable mixing bowl. Heat for approximately seconds until soft.

Step 3

Then use a handheld mixer and beat butter for 30 seconds on medium speed.

Step 4

Add granulated sugar and beat for an additional two minutes. Mixture will be crumbly.

Step 5

Then add the egg yolk and vanilla. Continue to beat for an additional 1-2 minutes until all of the egg is incorporated. Please note this is a crumbly dough.

Step 6

Then add the salt and baking soda and give a quick mix to incorporate. Add flour and mix using the lowest speed until a dough forms.

Step 7

Then dump crumbly dough into pan. Press along the bottom and all up the sides of the pan. Now make the filling.

Step 8

To make this as an easy one bowl recipe, simply Wipe out the bowl with a paper towel to remove any of the dough crumbs. You can also use a new bowl if desired.

Step 9

To make filling, combine the butter and cream cheese in the bowl. If the ingredients are straight from your fridge, then microwave for 20 seconds, until softened. Then beat the butter and cream cheese for two minutes with your hand mixer on medium high speed.

Step 10

Add then egg and vanilla and beat for an additional minute, or until fluffy and smooth.

Step 11

Then sprinkle in the salt and powdered sugar. On low speed, mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 12

Pour onto crust.

Step 13

Bake for 25-30 minutes. Crust will become golden brown. The filling will still be slightly jiggly and will set over cooling period.

Step 14

Allow bars to come to room temp before sprinkling with powdered sugar.

Step 15

Cut into squares and enjoy!