Chewy Chocolate Peanut Bars

A cross between Mary Moore's Sweet Maureen Bars and Best of Bridge's Chewy Chocolate Peanut Squares I always make a double recipe

• Ready In: 30 mins
• Serves: 32
• Yields: 32 bars

Ingredients

• 1⁄2 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunch)
• 1⁄2 cup corn syrup
• 1⁄2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1  tablespoon butter
• 2  cups  Rice Krispies
• 1  cup peanuts
• 1⁄4 cup raisins (optional)
• 1⁄4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
• 1⁄4 cup coconut (optional)
• 1⁄4 cup  sliced almonds (optional)
• 3  ounces  chocolate squares (semi-sweet)
• 1⁄3 cup peanut butter

Directions

1. To make base, in pot combine thoroughly the peanut butter, corn syrup, brown sugar and butter. Stir constantly on medium heat until nearly boiling. Do not let mixture burn on bottom or pot. Remove from heat. In a large bowl combine rice krispies, peanuts and any or all of the optional ingredients. I use them all. Pour in hot peanut butter mixture and at once stir to thoroughly combine.Mixture is very stiff. Pack firmly and evenly into the bottom of a buttered 8 x 8" pan. Press down using the back of a large dessert spoon dipped several times in hot water to keep it from sticking. Let stand on counter while you prepare the topping.
2. To make topping, in a small pot combine squares of chocolate and peanut butter. Stir constantly over low heat until chocolate is melted and the the mixture is combined. At once spread evenly over bars ( 1 x 2"). Chill in refrigerator. With sharp knife cut into bars. Stir in contained in refrigerator until serving.
3. If making a double recipe, use a 9 x 12" pan and use 4 squares of chocolate with 1/3 cup peanut butter for topping.