1 1/3 c. sifted all purpose flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 c. soft butter
1 c. light brown sugar, firmly packed
1 egg
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1/2 c. coarsely chopped nuts (optional)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Lightly grease a 9x9x1 3/4 inch pan. Sift flour with baking powder and salt; set aside. In large bowl, with wooden spoon or mixer at medium speed, beat butter, sugar, egg and vanilla until smooth. Stir in flour mixture and nuts until well blended. Spread evenly in prepared pan. Bake 25 to 30 minutes, or until surface springs back when gently pressed with fingertip. Cool slightly. Cut into bars while still warm.