Making Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps for a delightful result:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Prepare the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in vanilla extract to form a dough.

3. Press the Dough: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, ensuring it covers the entire surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden.

4. Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and flour until just combined.

5. Pour the Filling: Once the crust is baked, pour the cream cheese filling over the warm crust and spread evenly with a spatula.

6. Bake Again: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center.

7. Prepare the Blueberry Topping: In a saucepan, combine the blueberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring gently until the blueberries begin to soften and release their juice.

8. Top It Off: Once the cream cheese layer is set, pour the blueberry mixture over the bars. Spread gently to ensure even coverage.

9. Final Bake: Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to set the blueberry topping. Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan.

10. Chill: Once cooled to room temperature, refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour before cutting them into squares.

These step-by-step instructions are designed to make your baking experience as enjoyable as possible. After following these steps, you’ll have a delicious batch of Blueberry Cream Cheese Bars to share!