Creating these delicious Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting is straightforward. Follow these steps for a successful outcome:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.

2. Prepare the Cranberries: If using fresh cranberries, wash and chop them coarsely. If using frozen, let them thaw and drain any excess liquid.

3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

4. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.

5. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until well combined.

6. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

7. Fold in Cranberries: Gently fold in the chopped cranberries, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

8. Spread in Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.

9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

10. Cool the Bars: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

11. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and milk, mixing until creamy and well blended.

12. Frost the Bars: Once the cranberry bars are completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.

13. Optional Garnish: If desired, sprinkle orange zest on top for an extra burst of flavor.

14. Cut into Bars: Once frosted, cut the bars into squares and serve.

Following these steps will help you create a batch of incredibly delicious Cranberry Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting that are sure to be a hit!