More Peanut Butter Goodness

Mk's Spin on "Original Sin" Bars

• 1 cup applesauce, unsweetened (in place of butter)
• 2 cups natural peanut butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (22 graham crackers pureed in food processor)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup wheat germ
• 7 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped or chips
• 1/2 cup canola oil
• large pinch of salt  (don't omit)

Line a 9 X 13-inch pan with aluminum foil.  Make sure the foil extends about 2 inches up past the two long sides of the pan.  You will use this extra foil later to lift the finished bars out of the pan before cutting.

Melt peanut butter in the microwave, stirring until smooth.  Add the graham cracker crumbs, vanilla and powdered sugar.  Mix until thoroughly combined.

Pat the peanut butter mixture into the lined ungreased 9 X 13-inch pan.

Melt the chocolate chips, butter and the pinch of salt in the microwave and stir until smooth.

Spread the melted chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer.

Chill in the refrigerator until firm, about 30 minutes.  Cut with a hot dry knife.