These fantastically delicious bars are filled with gooey Southern goodness. They start with a thick cookie base, a sweet pecan filling and then a wonderful cookie topping.
Cookie Layer:
1 c. unsalted butter, softened
1/3 c. firmly packed light brown sugar
1 large egg
1 t. vanilla extract
2 1/4 c. all-purpose flour
1 t. salt
1 c. finely chopped pecans*
Topping:
2/3 c. light corn syrup
1/2 c. firmly packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs
2 T. unsalted butter, melted
1 t. vanilla extract
1/4 t. salt
1 1/2 c. chopped pecans*
2 c. semi-sweet chocolate chips
Cookie Layer:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease an 8 inch square baking pan.
Use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy; add egg and vanilla; mix well. Reduce speed to low; gradually add flour, pecans and salt; mix just until combined. Transfer mixture to prepared pan; press evenly into the bottom of the pan. Bake 15 - 20 minutes, or until edges are lightly browned. Set aside to cool slightly.
Topping:
Combine corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, butter, vanilla and salt until thoroughly mixed; stir in pecans. Pour topping mixture over cookie layer. Bake 35 - 40 minutes, or until topping is set. Remove pan from the oven and place on a wire rack.
Sprinkle chocolate chips over the topping; allow chips to sit for about 5 minutes, then spread chocolate over the topping. Cool completely. Cut into 16 bars.
16 servings.
*The pecans can be toasted to add a little more flavor, if desired. Place pecans in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees for about 10 minutes. Cool before using.