Nutty Caramel Bars

From Rich and Gooey Dessert Sensations cookbook.

• Ready In: 40 mins
• Yields: 24 bars

Ingredients

• 1 1⁄2 cups butter, divided
• 1⁄2 cup granulated sugar
• 1  egg
• 1  teaspoon vanilla
• 2  cups all-purpose flour
• 1⁄4 cup honey
• 3⁄4 cup  firmly packed light brown sugar
• 1⁄4 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 (12 ounce) can  whole lightly  salted mixed nuts

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350.
2. Butter 13x9-inch baking pan; set aside.
3. In large bowl, beat 1 cup (2 sticks) butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy; beat in egg and vanilla.
4. Stir in flour until well mixed; press evenly into prepared pan. Bake until edges are brown and center looks dry, about 15 minutes.
5. Remove to wire rack while preparing topping.
6. Maintain oven temperature.
7. In heavy medium saucepan over medium heat, heat remaining 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter and honey until butter is melted.
8. Stir in brown sugar; bring to a boil. Boil without stirring for exactly 2 minutes; remove from heat.
9. Stir in cream and nuts.
10. Immediately spoon caramel nut mixture evenly over crust. Bake until caramel bubbles, about 10 minutes.
11. Cool completely on wire rack; cut in 2x2-inch bars.
12. Store in tightly covered container at room temperature.