Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides.
Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a crumbly dough forms.
Step 3: Press the dough firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 15 minutes or until the edges are just starting to turn golden brown.
Step 4: While the crust is baking, whisk together the eggs, maple syrup, brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl until well combined.
Step 5: Stir the toasted pecans and dried cranberries into the maple mixture. Pour the filling over the hot, pre-baked crust.
Step 6: Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set around the edges but still has a slight jiggle in the center.
Step 7: Allow the maple pecan and cranberry bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before using the parchment sling to lift them out and slicing into squares.