Pecan Bars

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 375F.
2. 2
   Make crust: Put butter and brown sugar into the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment; mix on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
3. 3
   Mix in salt.
4. 4
   Add flour, 1 cup at a time, mixing until fully incorporated after each addition.
5. 5
   Continue mixing until dough begins to come together in large clumps.
6. 6
   Press dough about 1/4 inch thick into a 9 by 13-inch baking pan.
7. 7
   Pierce the dough with a fork.
8. 8
   Chill until firm, about 20 minutes.
9. 9
   Bake until golden brown, 18 to 20 minutes.
10. 10
    Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. 11
    Reduce oven to 325F.
12. 12
    Make filling: Place butter, brown sugar, honey, granulated sugar, and heavy cream in a saucepan over high heat.
13. 13
    Bring to a boil, stirring constantly until mixture coats the back of a spoon, about 1 minute.
14. 14
    Remove pan from heat; stir in salt, nuts, and vanilla.
15. 15
    Pour filling into the cooled crust.
16. 16
    Bake until filling bubbles, 15 to 20 minutes.
17. 17
    Carefully transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
18. 18
    Run a paring knife around edges of the pan and invert onto cooling rack.
19. 19
    Invert again onto a cutting board.
20. 20
    Use a sharp knife to cut into 1 by 3-inch bars.
21. 21
    Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature up to 1 week.