Preheat your convection oven to 180°. Line a 9” x 13” roasting tin with parchment paper.
In a large bowl whisk together the plain flour, baking powder and sea salt and set to the side.
Cream together the unsalted butter and white sugar until nice and light.
Add the eggs and vanilla to the butter and mix.
Once combined add the butter mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough is formed.
Press the dough into the tin. Creating a lip on the edge of the dough to create a well and to stop the topping falling down to the bottom.
Bake for 10 - 15 minutes or until slightly golden brown.
For the Topping
Weigh out the butter, maple syrup, brown sugar and orange zest into a pot.
Heat on a medium/low heat until the butter has melted. Higher the heat and bring to a low boil for 2 minutes. Stirring constantly so that the bottom does not stick and burn.
Remove from the heat. Add the cream and chopped pecans.
Pour over the crust and pop back into the oven for 25 - 30 mins at 180°.
Once baked remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
These bars are gooey slices of heaven to be enjoyed slightly warm with a dollop of cream or ice cream. Another great option is to cool completely, chop into 16 bars and bring along for a picnic on a crisp Autumn day's walk.