Deluxe Chocolate Marshmallow Bars

This is a family favorite! And I love it because it makes such a big batch and is pretty enough to bring to potluck, etc. It looks complicated but is really easy to make.

Deluxe Chocolate Marshmallow Bars
3/4c. margarine, softened
1 1/2c. sugar
3 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
1 1/2c. flour
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
3 Tbsp. cocoa
1/2 c. chopped nuts (optional)
4 c. mini marshmallows
 
In mixing bowl, cream margarine and sugar. Add in eggs and vanilla. Add next 4 ingredients, and stir in nuts if using. It will be thick but spread in greased jelly roll pan (which is a large cookie sheet, took my a while before I figured this out :)) Bake at 350 for 15-18 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle with marshmallows then return to oven for 2-3 minutes. Using a spatula (dipped in water) spread marshmallows (I usually just pat them down). Cool.

Topping:
1 1/2c. chocolate chips
3 Tbsp. margarine
1 c. peanut butter
2 c. Rice Krispies

Melt first 3 ingredients in saucepan over low heat. When melted add cereal and spread over bars. Chill. I find it helps to let them sit on the counter for a minute or two before cutting.

Hope you enjoy,
Stephanie