Creating these incredible Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting is simple if you follow these clear steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Prepare the Cranberry Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped cranberries with granulated sugar. Set aside to macerate.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with the remaining sugar until light and fluffy.
5. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Fold in Cranberries: Gently fold in the cranberry mixture, spreading it evenly through the batter.
8. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Cool: Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Make the Frosting: In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, lemon juice, and milk until you achieve a spreadable consistency.
11. Frost the Bars: Once the cranberry bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top.
12. Cut into Bars: Use a sharp knife to cut the dessert into squares or rectangles for serving.

These steps will guide you in creating these amazing cranberry bars effortlessly!