Shelly's Recipe

PARADISE BARS

Category: Bars

3/4 cup butter, softened
2 3/4 cups light brown sugar (divided use)
1 1/2 cups plus 1/3 cup flour (divided use)
2 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
4 eggs
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
2 cups unsweetened coconut flakes
2 cups pecan pieces

Preheat oven to 350. Line a 13x9 inch pan with parchment paper.

Make the crust: Cream together the butter and 3/4 cup brown sugar until smooth. Add 1 1/2 cups flour and mix well. Place the mixture in the prepared baking pan, pressing the mixture firmly onto the base of the pan to form a packed, even layer. Bake the crust until lightly golden, about 20 to 25 minutes. Set aside until cool.

In a large bowl, prepare the filling: Mix the remaining 2 cups brown sugar, vanilla and eggs well. Set aside.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the remaining 1/3 cup flour, baking powder and salt. Combine the flour mixture with the egg mixture until thoroughly incorporated. Stir in the coconut and pecan pieces. Pour the filling over the cooled crust, spreading evenly with a spatula. Bake until set, about 40 to 50 minutes. Cool before cutting and serving.