Peanut Butter Brownie Bars

(Courtesy of Taste of Home)

Ingredients:
1 pkg. fudge brownie mix (9x13 pan size)
12 peanut butter cups, chopped
1/2 c. salted peanuts, chopped
2 c. (12 oz.) semisweet chocolate chips
1 1/4 c. creamy peanut butter
1 Tbsp. butter
1 1/2 c. crisp rice cereal
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1/8 tsp. salt

Directions:
Prepare brownie batter according to package directions.  Spread into a greased 9x13 baking pan.  Bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out with moist crumbs.

Sprinkle with peanut butter cups and peanuts.  Bake 4-6 minutes longer or until chocolate is melted.  Cool on a wire rack.

Meanwhile, in a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips, peanut butter and butter; stir until smooth.  Stir in the cereal, vanilla and salt.  Carefully spread over the brownies.  Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting.