Chocolate-Glazed Peanut Butter Bars

A little "something sweet" today... These chocolate-glazed peanut butter bars are divine.... and surprisingly, the peanut butter doesn't dominate the flavor. They have the consistency of a soft cookie bar, and you can really taste the butter, brown sugar, and oats along with the peanut butter. The thick chocolate glaze on top just makes it perfection! They are a big hit here, and I'm sure they'd be a big hit at any party. I found this recipe in an old Taste of Home Magazine (Busy Family 2010 Edition). I hope you give them a try!

Here's what you need for the cookie bar part:

• 3/4 c. butter, softened
• 3/4 c. creamy peanut butter
• 3/4 c. sugar
• 3/4 c. packed brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tbsp. water
• 1-1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1-1/2 c. all-purpose flour
• 1-1/2 c. quick-cooking oats
• 3/4 tsp. baking soda
• 1/2 tsp. salt

And here's what you need for the glaze:

• 1-1/4 c. milk chocolate chips
• 1/2 c. butterscotch chips
• 1/2 c. creamy peanut butter

Preheat your oven to 325 degrees, and grease a 15"x10" baking pan.

In a large bowl, cream the butter, peanut butter, and sugars until light and fluffy. Then beat in the eggs, water, and vanilla.

In a separate bowl, combine: the flour, oats, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed mixture.

Spread the batter into the greased baking pan.

Bake at 325 degrees for 20 - 24 minutes, or until lightly browned. Place pan on a wire rack to cool. Meanwhile, make the glaze: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chips and the peanut butter:

Stir until smooth.

Spread over warm bars (Not hot - allow them to cool enough so they are just warm to the touch.)

Cool completely on a wire rack before cutting. Note: the glaze will not harden; it will stay soft. Yields: 4 dozen. Enjoy!

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THIS RECIPE IS LINKED TO "WEEKEND POTLUCK" AT THE COUNTRY COOK'S BLOG.