Blondies

• 1 cup margarine, softened (2 sticks)
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup white sugar
• 4 medium eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 3 cups flour (sifted or fluffed before measuring)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup peanuts, optional

In a large bowl combine the margarine, brown sugar and white sugar. Beat the mixture until it is smooth and fluffy. Stir in the eggs and vanilla. Beat again, making a smooth, satiny mixture. Add the flour, baking powder and salt. Mix with a big spoon until the batter is thick and smooth. Stir in the peanuts if desired. Turn this batter into a well oiled 9" by 13" rectangular pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes. The bars will rise up and then fall slightly. Remove from the oven when done. Allow the bars to cool before cutting into 24 or 32 pieces. If desired you may frost these with chocolate or vanilla frosting. These are a pleasant change from brownies. I especially like them with the peanuts added, but they are absolutely optional. Without the peanuts you still have a rich, chewy bar, perfect for lunch boxes and company.

To fluff up your flour before measuring it, just stir it with a spoon to incorporate some air. If you can't sift or stir your flour then reduce the amount called for to about 2-1/2 cups.