Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 8x8 or 9x9-inch baking pan. Line the pan with parchment paper or foil with ends extending over one edge of pan (for easy removal). Set aside.

Step 2

In a medium-size pot, over medium heat melt the one teaspoon of butter. Add the maple syrup (or honey) and pecans, and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until pecans take on a medium golden brown color. Sprinkle with the salt and transfer to a small bowl. Set aside.

Step 3

In the same pot, over medium heat, melt the butter. Continue cooking for about 3-4 minutes till butter is foaming and turns a medium golden brown. Watch carefully as butter can quickly go from golden to burned.

Step 4

Remove from heat and allow to cool for 5 minutes, then add brown sugar and stir well.

Step 5

Add eggs, one at a time and stir till each is incorporated. Add vanilla and stir well.

Step 6

Add flour, salt and baking powder and stir until all flour has disappeared.

Step 7

Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly . Sprinkle top with prepared pecans and chocolate chips.

Step 8

Bake 25-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Cool completely before cutting into rectangles, 2x1½-inches.