Deluxe Chocolate-Marshmallow Bars

• 3/4 cup butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 3 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 1/3 cups flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons cocoa
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
• 4 cups miniature marshmallows

Cream together the butter and sugar.  Beat in the eggs and vanillaStir in the flour, baking powder, cocoa and salt.Spread in a 15” X 10”  greased baking pan.  Bake in a 35o º F. oven for 18 minutes.  Remove and sprinkle with the marshmallows.  Return to the oven for 2 to 3 minutes.With a wet knife spread the melted marshmallows.Make the following topping and spread on top.Chill.Makes about 3 dozen

 Topping:

• 1 1/3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup peanut butter
• 2 cups rice krispies

Melt together the chocolate chips with the butter and peanut butter.Remove from heat and stir in the rice cereal.