Pine Nut Caramel Shortbread Bars

Lizzie Rodriquez's Note:

from Taste of Home Magazine

• Total Time: 50 mins
• Prep Time: 30 mins
• Cook Time: 20 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 48

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup butter, cubed
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups pine nuts
• 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• coarse salt (optional)

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Combine flour and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Pat onto the bottom of a greased 15-in.x 10-in. x 1-in. baking pan. Prick dough thoroughly with a fork.
2. Bake at 375° for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown. Cool on a wire rack. Reduce temperature to 325°.
3. In a large saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, honey, sugar, cream and salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until a candy thermometer reads 234° (soft-ball stage). Remove from the heat; stir in pine nuts and vanilla. Spread evenly over crust.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly. Place pan on a wire rack.
5. Sprinkle the top with coarse salt if desired. Cool completely. Cut into bars. Store in an airtight container.