Recipe: Chocolate Peanut Squares (no bake, using graham cracker crumbs)

CHOCOLATE PEANUT SQUARES

1 1/2 sticks (12 tbsp.) unsalted butter, divided use
6 squares (1 oz. each) semisweet chocolate, chopped, divided use
1 cup flaked coconut
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup finely chopped dry roasted peanuts
2 packages (8 oz. each) cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup peanut butter
1 tsp. vanilla extract

Lightly spray a 13x9-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

In a medium-size microwave-safe bowl, melt together 1 stick (8 tbsp.) butter with 2 ounces chocolate on medium (50 percent) power until melted, about 1 to 2 minutes. Stir halfway through the melting time.

Combine coconut, graham cracker crumbs and peanuts. Add the chocolate-butter mixture, stirring until the ingredients are moistened. Press into the bottom of the baking dish and refrigerate while preparing the next layer.

In a food processor or with an electric mixer combine cream cheese, granulated sugar, peanut butter and vanilla, mixing until smooth. Scrape the mixture over the crust and smooth with a spatula. Refrigerate.

In a medium-size, microwave-safe bowl, melt together 1/2 stick (4 tablespoons) butter with 4 ounces chocolate on medium (50 percent) power until melted, about 1 to 2 minutes. Stir halfway through melting time. Pour over the cream cheese layer, spreading gently with a spatula.

Let set up several hours in refrigerator before cutting. Store in refrigerator.

Makes 24 squares
Adapted from source: Simply Casseroles by Kim Lila