Strawberry Cream Cheese Bars (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Crust

01 - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
04 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
05 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

→ Cream Cheese Filling

06 - 8 oz cream cheese, softened
07 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
08 - 1 large egg
09 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
10 - 1/4 cup sour cream

→ Strawberry Topping

11 - 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
12 - 1 tablespoon sugar
13 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8-inch baking pan.
02 - Combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, butter, vanilla extract, and salt in a bowl. Mix until a dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
03 - Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until it’s lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
04 - In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar together until smooth and creamy. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and sour cream, and mix until well combined.
05 - Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden on top.
06 - In a small bowl, toss the chopped strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for 10 minutes to macerate.
07 - Once the bars have cooled to room temperature, spread the strawberry mixture evenly over the top. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the bars to set completely.
08 - Slice and enjoy the creamy, fruity deliciousness!