Candy-Topped Creamy Peanut Butter Bars

Ingredients

1st Layer

• 1/2 cup shortening
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 3/4 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 cup flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

2nd Layer

• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 cup salted peanuts

3rd Layer

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup miniature M&M's chocolate candies

Directions

1. 1

   First layer-Cream the shortening and sugars; add the remaining ingredients and mix well. Bake in a greased 9x13 pan for 20 minutes at 350 degrees, until light golden brown. Cool completely.

2. 2

   Second layer-Combine the butter, peanut butter, powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Stir in the peanuts and spread over the first layer.

3. 3

   Third layer-Melt the chocolate chips and butter in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly. Cool 10 minutes, then stir in the cream. Carefully spread over the second layer and sprinkle with candies.

4. 4

   Refrigerate about an hour, until chocolate is set, before cutting.