Creme de Menthe Bars

By beckylippert

This is my mother's most delectable recipe. I have had other "creme de menthe bars" and they do not compare. It must be my mother's love that makes these so special. These are particularly wonderful over the holidays.

Ingredients

• 1.25 cups butter or margarine divided into 1/2 cup, 1/2 cup and 1/4 cup
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 3.5 cups sifted powdered sugar divided into 1/2 cup, 3 cups
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (try Kinnickinnick for gluten free)
• 1.5 cups semi sweet chocolate pieces
• 1/3 cup green creme de menthe liqueur

Preparation

Step 1

Bottom Layer
1. In saucepan, combine 1/2 cup butter and cocoa powder. Heat on low-medium and stir until well blended.
2. Remove from the heat and add 1/2 cup powdered sugar, egg and vanilla.
3. Stir in graham cracker crumbs and mix well.
4. Press into the bottom of an ungreased 13x9x2 pan

Middle Layer
1. Melt 1/2 cup butter and combine in a small mixing bowl with 1/3 cup creme de menthe.
2. On low speed, beat in remaining 3 cups of powdered sugar until smooth.
3. Spread over chocolate layer. Chill 1 hour.

Top Layer
1. In a small saucepan, combine the remaining 1/4 cup butter and chocolate pieces.
2. Heat on low-medium and stir until melted. Don't over heat it, just make it warm enough to melt.
3. Spread over mint layer. Chill 1-2 hours.

Cut into small 1-2 inch squares. Store in fridge or wrap tightly and freeze.