Preheat the oven to 375 degrees and foil and grease a 9x13 pan with cooking spray.

In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla, mixing thoroughly.

Add the flour, mixing in three additions and mix in the salt and baking soda in between the flour additions, mixing until all is incorporated.   4. Using a large wooden spoon, mix in 1 cup of the melty mints.

Spread the batter evenly into the pan and press the remaining half cup of melty mints onto the top of the batter. Sprinkle nonpareils on top. (optional)

Bake for approximately 15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Do not over bake.

Remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing into 24 bars.