Orange Slice Bars

1 pound candy orange slices, cut into small pieces
2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 cups firmly packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 eggs, slightly beaten
1 cup chopped pecans
Granulated sugar (optional)

In a large mixing bowl, combine cut-up orange slices, flour and salt; toss to dredge orange slices with flour. Add brown sugar, vanilla extract, eggs and pecans. Mix well with a spoon.

Divide batter between 2 (9-inch) square pans. Bake at 350 degrees F for about 45 minutes. Let cool in pans, then cut into bars. Roll bars in granulated sugar, if desired.