Pecan Pie Bars

These bite-sized chewy bars take just 20 minutes to prepare.
Prepare the cake: preheat the oven to 350 °. Beat the flour and the next 3 ingredients in a food processor 8-10 times or until smooth and the pecans are finely chopped; add the butter and beat 8 or 9 times or until the mixture resembles coarse flour. Line the bottom and sides of the 13-inch x 9-inch pan with aluminum foil so that the edges protrude 2 to 3 inches; lightly brush the foil with cooking spray. Place the mixture on the bottom of the prepared pan.Bake at 350 ° C for 20-25 minutes or until they are lightly browned. Cool completely on a wire rack (about 25 minutes).Prepare the filling: Bring the syrup and the following 4 ingredients to a boil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth; simmer, stirring constantly, for 1 minute. Remove from heat and add vanilla and 3 cups coarsely chopped toasted pecans. Pour the hot filling over the cooled cake.Bake at 350 ° C for 14-16 minutes or until bubbles form in the center of the filling. Cool the bars completely in the form on a wire rack (about 1 hour). Refrigerate the bars 1 hour before slicing.