Cranberry Gooey Butter Bars are a holiday spin on the classic gooey butter cake! These bars are tart, tangy, and sweet and oh so pretty when dusted with powdered sugar.
Heat oven to 350°F. Line bottom of 13x9-inch pan with parchment paper and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large bowl, mix cake base ingredients until well blended. Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Spread cranberries evenly over the cake base layer.
In another large bowl, beat cream cheese and 2 cups powdered sugar, and orange zest with an electric mixer on medium speed until well combined and smooth. Beat in 1/2 cup melted butter and the eggs, one at a time. Be sure to scrape the sides of the bowl as needed. Pour and evenly spread the batter into pan over the cranberries.
Bake in preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and center is set. Place pan on a wire rack and cool completely. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
When ready to serve, top with whipped cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar.