Best Ever Pecan Pie Bars

Steps

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a 9 x 13 x 2-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang on either side.

2. Add 1 cup softened unsalted butter and ⅔ cup packed brown sugar to a large bowl and beat with a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment until light and fluffy. Add 2 ⅔ cups all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon salt and mix until it forms a crumbly dough.

3. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.

4. While the crust is baking, prepare the filling by combining ½ cup unsalted butter, 1 cup packed dark brown sugar, ⅓ cup honey, and 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream in a medium saucepan. Stir over medium heat for a minute or two until the butter is melted and the sugar has dissolved. Remove from the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 2 cups chopped pecans.

5. Remove the crust from the oven and pour the hot pecan filling on top, spreading it evenly over the surface. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes.

6. Let the pan cool completely before lifting the bars from the pan using the parchment paper. Slice into bars and serve. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.