Chocolate Peanut Bars

By dette

Sue Thomas of Casa Grande, Arizona uses common pantry items to whip up these bars. Peanut butter combines with a cake mix for a tender crust. Then a rich layer of cream cheese is topped with chocolate chips and nuts before baking.

Ingredients

• Ingredients
• 1 package (18-1/4 ounces) white cake mix
• 1 cup peanut butter, divided
• 1 egg
• 1 package (8 ounces) PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese (softened or cubed), softened
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 cup (6 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips
• 3/4 cup salted peanuts

Preparation

Step 1

Directions
In a large bowl, beat the cake mix, 2/3 cup peanut butter and egg until crumbly. Press into a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking pan.
In another large bowl, beat cream cheese and remaining peanut butter until smooth. Gradually beat in milk and sugar. Carefully spread over crust. Sprinkle with chocolate chips and peanuts.
Bake at 350° for 25-30 minutes or until edges are lightly browned and center is set. Cool completely before cutting. Store in the refrigerator. Yield: about 2-1/2 dozen.
Editor's Note: Reduced-fat or generic brands of peanut butter are not recommended for this recipe.


Nutrition Facts: 1 serving (1 each) equals 208 calories, 12 g fat (4 g saturated fat), 16 mg cholesterol, 191 mg sodium, 21 g carbohydrate, 1 g fiber, 5 g protein.