Pecan Pie Bars

Base

• 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Topping

• 2 cups (8 oz) pecans
• 1 stick unsalted butter
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/3 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• optional zest of one orange

Combine shortbread ingredients in food processor until mixture forms small lumps. Press into ungreased 13x9" baking pan. Bake at 350 F until golden, about 20 minutes.

Coarsely chop pecans. Melt butter. Stir in brown sugar, honey, and cream, and bring to simmer for 1 minute. Stir in pecans and optional orange zest. Spread pecan mixture over hot shortbread. Bake until bubbling, about 20 minutes.

Cool completely, then cut.