Caramel and Chocolate Pecan Bars (from Land O' Lakes)

Prep time: 15 minutes
Baking times: 18 minutes

Makes: 3 dozen bars

Crust:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened

Caramel layer:
2/3 cup butter
1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1 cup milk chocolate chips

Heat oven to 350 degrees. In large mixer bowl, combine all crust ingredients except pecans. Beat at medium speed, scraping bowl often until well mixed and particles are fine (2 to 3 minutes). Press on bottom of 13 x 9 inch baking pan. Place pecans evenly over unbaked crust.

In 1 quart saucepan, combine 2/3 cup butter and 1/2 cup brown sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until entire surface of mixture begins to boil. Boil 1 minute, stirring constantly. Pour evenly over pecans and crust.

Bake for 18 to 22 minutes or until entire caramel layer is bubbly. Remove from oven. Immediately sprinkle with chips, allow to melt slightly (2 to 3 minutes). Swirl chips, leaving some whole for a marbled effect. Cool completely, cut into bars.