Hoosier Peanut Bars
This is for you if you love peanuts. You can also use the honey roasted peanuts for a slightly different flavor; just substitute them in the exact measure.
INGREDIENTS | YIELDS 18 BARS
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup sugar
- 1½ cups brown sugar, divided
- 2 eggs, separated
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 3 tablespoons water
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1½ cups chopped salted peanuts
Preheat oven to 325°F. Butter and flour 13" × 9" baking dish.
Sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
Cream together butter, sugar, and ½ cup brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg yolks and vanilla; beat well.
Add water and flour mixture to make a stiff dough.
Press dough into bottom of prepared pan. Sprinkle with chocolate chips.
In a clean bowl, beat egg whites until foamy. Gradually add remaining 1 cup brown sugar, beating until stiff and glassy. Spread over chocolate; sprinkle peanuts over top.
Bake 35 minutes. Cool.
More About Meringues
Egg whites will refuse to whip up properly is there is any oil at all on the bowl. Take a minute to rinse your clean mixing bowl and beaters with lemon juice or white vinegar to cut any greasy residue that might be there.
