CREOLE PECAN PRALINE BARS

Steps:

• Preheat oven to 325 (convection) 350 regular. Line 9 x 13 pan with parchment paper and lightly spay.
• In mixing bowl, mix butter, brown sugar and salt (first three ingredients). Add flour and beat at low speed until the ingredients form tiny crumbs. Pour this mixture into prepared 9 x 13 pan. Spread the mixture/dough to form an even layer and press down firmly.
• Add the pecan halves, flat side down, in one direction (they should be touching each other) to cover the dough. This will be a more formal appearance. As an alternative, you may want to chop the pecans and then spread them evenly over the base dough.
• In a saucepan, melt the remaining butter and brown sugar over high heat. Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon until it comes to a rolling boil. Continue to stir for 30 seconds. Remove the pan from the heat.
• Pour the butter/sugar (carmel) mixture over the dough, coating the entire surface. Bake the bars for 25 minutes. Remove from the oven and transfer to a rack to cool, then refrigerate for approximately 1-hour prior to slicing for easier handling. May also freeze and then slice after removing from freezer and allowing to slightly thaw.