1. Heat oven to 350 F. Line 8x8- or 9x9-inch square baking pan with aluminum foil.

2. In medium bowl, mix crust ingredients on low speed until crumbly. Press firmly in pan. Bake 15–20 minutes or until crust is beginning to brown and top looks dry.

3. In a 2-quart heavy saucepan, heat the butter, brown sugar and corn syrup to boiling over medium heat, stirring frequently. Boil 2 minutes without stirring. Remove from heat. Quickly stir in vanilla, pecans and 1/2 cup of bacon. Spread over crust. Cool at least 30 minutes.

4. In a small, microwavable bowl, melt chocolate chips and shortening on high 1 minute; continuously stir. Microwave at an additional 10-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Spread over bars; sprinkle with remaining bacon on top. Cool completely for about 1 hour. Cut into 5 rows by 5 rows.