Strawberry Bars Delight (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Crust

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

→ Cream Cheese Filling

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

→ Strawberry Topping

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

# Instructions:

01 - Turn your oven on to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8-inch baking pan so the crust doesn’t stick.
02 - In a bowl, combine the butter, vanilla extract, sugar, salt, and flour. Work it together until dough forms. Push it into the greased pan, spreading it evenly.
03 - Place the pan in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, just until the edges turn golden. Take it out to cool a bit.
04 - Using a medium bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar until the mix is smooth. Add in the sour cream, egg, and vanilla extract, then blend until creamy.
05 - Pour the creamy filling on top of the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Put it back in the oven and bake for about 18-20 minutes, until just golden and set.
06 - Mix strawberries, lemon juice, and sugar in a small bowl. Set aside for 10 minutes so the juices release.
07 - When the base has cooled, add the strawberry mix on top. Pop it into the fridge and let it chill for at least 2 hours.
08 - Cut into squares and savor the creamy treat with that fruity topping!