Caramel Cinnamon Pecan Bars

These amazing bars are deadly.  They are so deliciously full of caramel, cinnamon, and pecans, that you won't be able to stop with just one.  Or two.  I won't judge.  I found this McCormick recipe in an ad circular in the newspaper!  Talk about a lucky find for a win.

Caramel Cinnamon Pecan Bars

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, melted
1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
2 eggs
1 Tablespoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped pecans
1 bag (14 ounces) caramels, unwrapped OR 1 bag (11 ounces) caramel bits
3 to 4 Tablespoons milk (4 if using 14 ounces caramel, 3 if using 11 ounces caramel)

Preheat the oven to 350F.  Spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.

In a large bowl, stir together the melted butter and brown sugar until well blended and smooth.  Stir in the eggs and vanilla extract until combined. Add the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt, and stir until just combined.  Stir in the pecans.

Set about one cup of batter aside.  Spread the remaining batter in the prepared baking dish and bake for about 15 to 17 minutes, or until just set in the center.

Meanwhile, place the caramels and milk in a microwaveable bowl and microwave for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds until caramel is melted and smooth.  Pour the caramel over the bars, spreading evenly. Drop the remaining batter in spoonfuls over the caramel and use a butter knife to swirl the batter and caramel together.  Return the bars to the oven and bake 15 minutes longer, or until the center is set.  Cool completely before cutting into bars.  Makes 24 to 32 bars.

Enjoy!  -Cardamommy