Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 9x9" square pan with foil, leaving a little hanging over the edges.

Mix the butter, vanilla and salt in the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment until smooth. Reduce the speed to low and gradually add in the confectioners' sugar (only a little at a time, otherwise you'll have sugar everywhere).

Mix in the flour until just combined. Add the candies/chocolates and mix again.

Press the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan with lightly floured hands for a flat smooth layer. Score the top with a sharp knife so that when you are done baking you can easily define rows.

Transfer to oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Cookie will by dry to the touch (cation, hot). Re-score the cookies again and allow to cool 20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

When cool, cut along marks to break apart.

Heat the 1/4 cup semisweet chips in a ziplock bag or bowl to melt. Drizzle over the bars. Let set and serve with a big glass of milk.