Chocolate Chip Pecan Bars

Because it’s Monday…

and I am a cookie monster…

and last week when I made these they were too hard for my taste…

and I knew if I used a smaller pan they would be softer…

and well I needed CHOCOLATE!

Yes, I love cookies especially cookies made with CHOCOLATE.  Sometimes, even though I want to make cookies, I don’t feel like being tied to the oven – putting and taking cookies in and out. If you ever have had that urge for cookies, but don’t have a lot of time – Chocolate Chip Pecan Bars to your rescue.

Because it’s Monday…

and you need CHOCOLATE!

Chocolate Chip Pecan Bars

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

2 tablespoons canola oil

1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons sugar

1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons light brown sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1-1/2 cup whole wheat pastry flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1 scant cup semisweet chocolate chips

1 cup toasted pecans, chopped

1.  Preheat oven to 350 F.  Line the bottom of an 8″ X 8″ baking pan with parchment paper.

2.  In the bowl of an electric mixer, mix together the butter, oil, and both sugars until light and creamy.

3.  Add the egg and vanilla,  followed by the flour, baking soda and cinnamon, mix on low speed.

4.  Add the chocolate chips and pecans. Mix until just combined.

5.  Spread the dough into the baking pan and press into an even layer.

6.  Bake 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.

7.  Let cool for 10 minutes and cut into bars.