Making Festive Fig & Cream Cheese Bars is straightforward if you follow these easy steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix until crumbly and well combined.
3. Press the Crust: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan, pressing it down firmly to form a crust.
4. Bake the Crust: Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
6. Fold in the Figs: Add the chopped figs, walnuts (if using), cinnamon, and lemon zest to the cream cheese mixture. Stir until evenly combined.
7. Spread the Filling: Pour the cream cheese filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
8. Bake Again: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes or until the filling is set and slightly golden on top.
9. Cool: Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes. Then, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Slice and Serve: Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut them into squares or rectangles for serving.

These steps will guide you through making these incredible Festive Fig & Cream Cheese Bars!