Pecan Nut Bars

 

Although we are still enjoying the summer through September 21st, I have to admit that Fall is my favorite season.   These bars, while fabulous anytime, evoke the autumn season.

• 1 stick butter, room temperature
• 1 1/3 c flour
• 1/3 c pecans, chopped
• ¼ c brown sugar
• ¼ t salt

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Grease an eight inch square baking dish and set aside.

Place the butter, flour, nuts, brown sugar and salt in a medium bowl and beat together.   Press the mixture into the prepared dish and bake for twenty minutes.   Cool on a wire rack.   Leave oven on.

• ½ c maple syrup
• 1/3 c brown sugar
• ½ stick butter
• 2 T heavy cream
• 1 ½ c pecans, chopped and ½ c whole
• 1 t vanilla

Place the maple syrup, brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream in a saucepan and bring to a boil.   Reduce heat and simmer, stirring constantly, until for five minutes.   Remove from heat and stir in the chopped pecans and vanilla.   Remove from heat and place mixture over crust.  Place the whole pecans over mixture and gently press into mixture.  Bake for twenty minutes.  Remove from oven and cool on wire rack.   Cut into squares and enjoy!