Baking my way through the trials and triumphs of life!

Is that a long title or what? I finally perfected and submitted my recipe for Betty Crocker’s “Mix it Up With Betty” contest.  My inspiration came from my Oatmeal, Chocolate Chip, Peanut Butter cookie recipe. I think I’ve told you before about the following that has developed for these cookies.

As a single mom, I often find myself challenged by things that need to be fixed around my house. Be it setting up my Tivo, hanging my Christmas lights, or steam cleaning my carpets, it seems there is always something that I’m unable to tackle on my own. – That’s when I call in the reserves. There are several men in my neighborhood that will do just about anything for a batch of those Oatmeal, Peanut Butter, Chocolate Chip cookies.

I’m starting to get a little nervous that my secret cookie recipe may lose its novelty among these willing neighbors… and that’s where Betty Crocker comes in. This contest challenged me to use the same flavors from my cookie recipe, but combine them to create a new, delicious dessert. After holding a taste tasting in the neighborhood, I am confident that my handymen will still meet me on my doorstep to negotiate a dream bar deal.

If you’re one of those who write a weekly “Honey Do List”, whip up a batch of these bars, set the pan by your list, and watch how fast each job gets finished.

Several people have asked if I think Betty will cave to the media hysteria and toss this recipe as a result of the peanut butter scare. Don’t worry Betty, I have faith in you! 

Honey, What Can I Do? – Oatmeal, Peanut Butter, Chocolate-chip Dream Bars

1 package Betty Crocker’s Oatmeal Chocolate-chip Cookie Mix

1/2 c. butter, softened (1 stick)

1 egg

1 tbsp. water

Peanut Butter Filling

3/4 c. crunchy peanut butter

1/2 c. butter, softened

1 1/2 c. powdered sugar

1 tbsp. honey

Chocolate Frosting

1 c. chocolate chips, semi-sweet

6 tbsp. butter, softened

*Optional – 4 Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, chopped

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Grease 8″ X 11.5″ Pyrex baking pan. Mix Betty Crocker’s cookie mix according to directions on the package. Spread the batter evenly into the pan. Bake for approximately 20 – 22 minutes. Remove from the oven when the edges are golden brown in color. Cool on a baking rack.

Peanut Butter Filling – Combine peanut-butter, butter, powdered sugar and honey in a medium sized bowl. Use a hand mixer and mix until smooth. Spread filling with the back of a large spoon on top of the cooled cookie crust.

Chocolate Frosting – Melt the butter and chocolate chips in a microwave safe bowl in the microwave for 30 seconds. Remove and stir. Continue to melt in the microwave and then stir in 30 second intervals until mixture is combined and smooth. Spread chocolate frosting over the peanut butter filling *and allow 30 minute to set.

*Optional- Sprinkle chopped peanut butter cups over top of the chocolate frosting and lightly press into the frosting.