3-Layer Bars

Ingredients

First Layer

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1 cup flaked coconut
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 5 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 cup baking cocoa (not sweetened)

Second Layer

• 1 lb powdered sugar
• 3 1/2 ounces instant vanilla pudding (1 small box)
• 1/3 cup melted butter
• milk, as needed
• 1 drop yellow food coloring (optional)

Third Layer

• 1 (12 ounce) package chocolate chips

• 1 tablespoon butter

Directions

1. 1

   First Layer - Mix all ingredients together to form a crumbly mixture.

2. 2

   Press into the bottom of a 9 x 13" pan, pressing firmly.

3. 3

   Place pan in the freezer to set while preparing the next layer.

4. 4

   Second Layer - Mix the first three ingredients together, using enough milk to make a stiff, frosting-like consistency.

5. 5

   If desired, add a drop of yellow food coloring.

6. 6

   Do not add too much milk, you want the mixture to be pretty stiff, but still spreadable.

7. 7

   Remove the pan from the freezer and scrape the second layer onto the first, spreading as evenly as possible, and then using your hands to press down to smooth.

8. 8

   Return pan to freezer.

9. 9

   Third Layer - Melt the chocolate chips together with the butter. You can use a double boiler, but I have had good luck using a small saucepan and very low heat, with stirring.

10. 10

    Remove the pan from the freezer.

11. 11

    Pour the melted chocolate mixture over the second layer.

12. 12

    Working quickly (before the chocolate sets), spread the chocolate layer evenly.

13. 13

    Return the pan to the freezer for no more than a few minutes. You want the chocolate to begin to set before you cut the bars – but if you wait too long, the chocolate will be too hard and you won't be able to cut through it without it breaking. The point at which the chocolate loses its shine and takes on a dull appearance is the right time to remove the pan from the freezer and cut into small squares.

14. 14

    After cutting, return to the freezer to harden completely, then remove from the pan.

15. 15

    Store in the refrigerator.