No-Bake Butterscotch-Pretzel Bars

Summer is swiftly passing by.  School will be starting in just a couple of weeks.  My oldest is starting junior high this year.  That makes me feel old!  I think everyone is ready to jump back into their school schedules.  My 8 yr. old can't wait to see all her friends and teachers again.  My 4 yr. old asks me almost everyday when preschool will start.  We'll be back to early mornings, packing lunches, homework and everything else that comes with the school year.  The kids are ready, but am I?!

No-Bake Butterscotch-Pretzel Bars look like they'd be great in a lunchbox or as an after school treat for the kids---and mom.  Moms need treats, too.  And don't forget Dad.  He'd probably enjoy one of these in his lunch too!  Really, who doesn't like a treat every once in a while?  Share some with your friends, neighbors or co-workers (as long as they're not allergic to peanuts).  

Ingredients (Printable Recipe)

Nonstick cooking spray
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 cup creamy peanut butter
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 cups crushed pretzels (about 6-1/2 ounces)
1 (11 ounce package--about 2 cups) butterscotch-flavored pieces
1/4 cup whipping cream
1/2 cup coarsely crushed pretzels
1/2 cup chopped peanuts

Directions 

1. Line a 13x9x2-inch pan with foil. Lightly coat the foil with cooking spray; set aside. In a large mixing bowl, stir together powdered sugar, peanut butter, and melted butter. Stir in 2 cups crushed pretzels. Press mixture firmly into the bottom of prepared pan.

2. In a heavy medium saucepan, combine butterscotch pieces and whipping cream. Stir over low heat until pieces are just melted.

3. Carefully spoon and spread butterscotch mixture over crumb mixture in pan. Sprinkle 1/2 cup coarsely crushed pretzels and the peanuts evenly over butterscotch mixture; press gently.

4. Cover and chill for at least 2 hours. Cut into bars to serve. Store in refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Source Better Homes and Gardens

The Results...
Salty and sweet.  Satisfy both cravings at once!  These bars are easy to put together and you don't have to turn on the oven.  But, they do require 2 hours in the refrigerator to set-up, plan accordingly.  They were a little crumbly when I cut into them, but I knew the kids thought these were good since they asked to lick the crumbs from the cutting board.  These bars are very tasty and definitely worth sharing.

Looking ahead, I think these would be great for the holidays, too---cookie exchanges/neighbor gifts.  This recipe is a keeper!

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