Paula Deen's Best-Ever Southern Pecan Pie Bars

1 c. butter, softened
1/2 c. sugar
1/4 tsp. salt
2 c. flour
4 large eggs, beaten
1 1/2 c. light corn syrup
1 1/3 c. firmly packed brown sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
2 c. pecan pieces

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, beat butter, sugar, and salt at medium speed with a mixer until creamy. Gradually add flour, beating well to combine. Press into the bottom of a 13x9-inch baking pan. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes or until crust is lightly golden. (I found you should lightly spray pan first). In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, and vanilla until combined. Stir in pecans. Pour over baked crust. Bake for 23 to 25 minutes (I found it really needed about 30) or until topping is set. (I baked it till a butter knife inserted in the center came out almost clean). Cool completely in pan, about 1 hour. Cut into bars to serve.