Creating Festive Fig & Cream Cheese Bars can be a fun experience if you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
2. Prepare Base: In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until creamy and smooth.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add flour, salt, and baking powder to the butter mixture. Mix until combined and crumbly.
4. Press into Pan: Take about two-thirds of the dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the greased baking pan to form the base.
5. Prepare Filling: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the egg and mix until well combined.
6. Add Figs: Gently fold in the chopped figs and nuts (if using) into the cream cheese mixture.
7. Spread Filling: Pour the cream cheese and fig mixture over the crust in the baking pan, spreading it evenly.
8. Top with Crumbles: Crumble the remaining dough over the cream cheese filling.
9. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is lightly golden and the filling is set.
10. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes. Then, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
11. Dust with Sugar: Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and presentation.

These steps will guide you in creating these incredible bars effortlessly!