Raspberry Cream Cheese Bars

By TrayH

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1-1/2 cups quick-cooking oats
• 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 packages (one 8 ounces, one 3 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 jar (18 ounces) red raspberry preserves
• 1/3 cup chopped slivered almonds

Preparation

Step 1

* In a bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar.

* Combine the oats, flour, baking soda and salt; add to creamed mixture and mix well.

* Press three-fourths of the mixture into a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking pan.

* Bake at 350° for 11-13 minutes or until set and edges just begin to brown.


* Meanwhile, in a small bowl, beat cream cheese and sugar.

* Add eggs and vanilla; mix well.

* Spread over crust.

* Drop preserves by spoonfuls over cream cheese mixture; carefully spread evenly.

* Combine almonds and remaining oat mixture; sprinkle over preserves.


* Bake for 25-30 minutes or until set and edges are golden brown.

* Cool before cutting. Store in the refrigerator.

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Nutrition Facts: 1 serving (1 each) equals 211 calories, 10 g fat (5 g saturated fat), 38 mg cholesterol, 145 mg sodium, 30 g carbohydrate, 1 g fiber, 3 g protein.