Salted Peanut Bars

It was Teacher Appreciation Week at my daughter's preschool and I was looking for something kid-easy we could whip up for her teacher. These were a sure bet, with only three ingredients (all of which are yummy to snitch while making.)

These look a bit peanut-brittley but they are nice and soft. Not gooey, but definitely elastic. Take a bite and pull your arm full length almost before it stops stretching. The fabulously marshmallowy chewy texture, with the rich caramel flavor and crunchy salty peanuts is a sure bet anytime. Isn't it Self-Appreciation Week?
Salted Peanut Bars (print recipe)
Nonstick cooking spray
2 1/4 cups coarsely chopped roasted salted peanuts
50 store-bought soft caramel squares, unwrapped (about 14 oz.)
1 cup mini marshmallows

1. Lightly coat an 8-inch square baking dish with cooking spray. Line with parchment paper, leaving a 1-inch overhand on all sides, then lightly coat parchment with spray. Cover paper with 1 1/4 cups peanuts.

2. In a medium pot, combine 1 T water, caramels and marshmallows over medium heat. Cook, stirring frequently, until caramels and marshmallows melt and mixture is smooth, about 8 minutes. Immediately pour over peanuts, then top with remaining 1 cup peanuts. Let cool until set, about 2 hours, then cut into 16 bars. (Store in an airtight container with parchment in between layers, up to 2 days. Longer than that, they will start to spread and lose shape.)

Recipe from Everyday Food