Preparation Steps

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
• In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  0.5 cup unsalted butter
• Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined, forming a thick dough.
  0.5 cup unsalted butter
• Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
• Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
• Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the hot base. Let sit for a few minutes until melted, then spread into a smooth layer. Sprinkle with chopped pecans if desired.
  0.5 cup unsalted butter
• Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.