Treasure Chest Bars

Treasure Chest Bars

2 cups flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
Dash of salt
1/2 cup butter, softened
3/4 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla
2 eggs
3 bars (1.55 oz. each) milk chocolate candy,
cut into small pieces
1 cup maraschino cherries, drained, and halved
1 cup coarsely chopped mixed nuts

For the Frosting:
1/4 cup butter (do not substitute)
2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla
2 to 3 tablespoons milk

Heat the oven to 350 F. Grease or spray a 15 x 10 inch baking pan. In a large bowl, beat all the bar ingredients except the milk chocolate candy, cherries, and nuts with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2 minutes. Scrape the bowl occasionally, until smooth. With a spoon, stir in the milk chocolate candy, cherries, and nuts. Spread evenly in the pan. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until light golden brown. Meanwhile, in a 1-quart saucepan, heat 1/4 cup butter over medium heat, stirring constantly, until light golden brown. Remove from the heat. Stir in the powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla. Stir in 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk until smooth and spreadable. Quickly spread the frosting over the warm bars. Cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack for about 1 hour.
Makes 48 bars