Pecan Pie Bars

Ingredients (17)

• FOR THE CRUST:
• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter at room temperature (3 sticks)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• FOR THE FILLING:
• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter
• 2/3 cup pure maple syrup
• 2 1/4 cups brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest about 1/2 medium lemon
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 pounds 20 ounces pecan halves, coarsely chopped
• Flaky sea salt such as Maldon or fleur de sel (optional)