PEANUT RICE CRISPY BARS
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These bars of chocolate, peanuts, oatmeal, rice krispies, coconut and caramel are a delicious treat  for parties or after school. The recipe uses only one bowl and takes about 30 min. to prepare.  Have the kids unwrap the caramels.  The candy freezes well - if there are any leftovers!

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Makes  50-60 small bars.

Spray a 9 X 11 X 2"  baking pan with Pam or coat with butter.

In a large microwave safe bowl combine-

1 14 oz bag of caramels
1/2 C. peanut butter, smooth or chunky
2 T. water

Microwave about 1-2 min. until soft enough to thoroughly mix - then add

1 C peanuts
1 C Oatmeal
 1 C. shredded coconut
2 C. Rice Krispies

Completely mix until dry ingredients are coated.  Pour into prepared baking pan.  Scrape bowl clean with a spatula.  Smooth out to an even    layer with minimum gaps and pockets in the surface.

In the same microwave safe bowl - add

1C. semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 stick butter or margarine (don't use reduced calorie margarine)
1/2 C peanut butter

Microwave about 1 min. or until soft enough to easily stir.  Do Not Overheat.
Mix then add-

1 C. Rice Krispies

Mix and pour on the mix  from Part I.  Cover the surface completely and smooth top.

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Refrigerate about 1 hr. before cutting into appropriately sized bars.  Refrigerate another 4 - 6 hours before removing from pan.  Store bars refrigerated in a sealed container or freeze for later use.