Just Baking

There is something about each upcoming weekend that makes me want to indulge. I crave comfort foods, and sweets that are creamy and satisfying. Here is one that will please the cheesecake lovers.

If you are a purist, omit the jam entirely.

Strawberry Cheesecake Bars
Makes 16 servings

5 tablespoons butter, softened
1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
1 cup flour
Approx. 1 cup jam of your choice, warmed (if necessary) until very easily spread
1/2 cup sugar
1 (8 ounce) packet cream cheese, softened
1 egg
2 tablespoons milk
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon vanilla

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees F.

2. In a medium bowl blend thoroughly butter, brown sugar, and flour with a fork until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Put 1 cup of the mixture aside for topping.

3. Press remaining mixture into an 8×8x2-inch baking dish sprayed lightly with cooking spray; bake for 15 minutes.

4. Spread jam over crust. In another bowl combine sugar and cream cheese, mixing until smooth. Thoroughly beat in egg, milk, lemon juice, and vanilla. Spread over the jam layer and sprinkle with remaining brown sugar mixture.

5. Bake for 25 minutes. Let cool, then chill for at least 1 hour. Cut into 16 squares; serve.

Image from Divine Domesticity