Spice Cake Bars with Salted Caramel Icing

Spice Cake Bars with Salted Caramel Icing ala ~DKBB~

(original recipe by Ellen Hartman in Feb/Mar 2014 Simple & Delicious magazine)

1 package spice cake mix (regular size)
3/4 cup butter, melted
1/3 cup evaporated milk
1/8 to 1/4 tsp. allspice (depending on your desire for strong flavor)
1 egg (warmed to room temperature and slightly beaten)

• Preheat oven to 350° F.
• Grease a 13x9-inch pan.
• In a large bowl, combine cake mix, butter, milk, allspice, and egg; beat on low speed for 30 seconds, then on  medium for 2 minutes. Batter will be thick.
• Transfer to prepare pan.
• Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
• Cool in pan on wire rack.

Frosting

1/3 cup packed brown sugar

1/3 cup evaporated milk

1/4 cup butter, cubed

2 cups powdered sugar

1 tsp. vanilla extract

1/2 to 1 tsp. sea salt (use a salt mill for big grains)

• In a large saucepan, combine brown sugar, milk, and butter over medium heat; bring to a boil, stirring occasionally.
• Reduce heat, simmer, uncovered, for 3 minutes.
• Remove from heat; stir in powdered sugar and vanilla; immediately spread icing over cake; sprinkle with sea salt.
• Cool completely before serving. Cut into bars. Store in airtight container.