Rainforest Nanaimo Bars

1. 1

   Note: Line an 8 by 8-inch baking pan aluminum foil, leaving extra to hang over the edge (this will make it easier to serve later).

2. 2

   Make the cookie base. Put the butter in the top part of a double boiler. Bring the bottom pan filled with an inch or so of water to a very slow simmer over medium-low heat. Set the top over the water-filled pan. Once the butter is melted, add the banana, Splenda Sugar Blend and cocoa, and stir to combine. Add the egg and cook, stirring constantly with a whisk, for about 5 minutes until warm to the touch and slightly thickened. Remove from the heat and stir in graham crumbs, coconut and nuts. Press the dough firmly into the prepared pan. (Save the pan of water for melting the chocolate later.)

3. 3

   Make the filling: Beat the mascarpone, peanut butter and confectioners' sugar together in a medium bowl with an electric mixer until light. Spread over the cookie and freeze.

4. 4

   Make the ganache: Put the chocolate, espresso and cream in the top of the double boiler, and set over the barely simmering water. Stir in the Splenda Sugar Blend, then stir occasionally until melted and smooth. Remove from the heat and let cool slightly. The ganache should have a sheen to it, and hold together well. When cool but still pourable, spread the chocolate layer over the chilled peanut butter layer and smooth over. You can press additional nuts into the top at this point fpr decoration. Freeze for 30 minutes.

5. 5

   Serve: Remove from the freezer and let sit at room temperature for 5 minutes. Pull out of the pan and transfer to a cutting surface. Cut into 1-inch squares and serve cool or at room temperature.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

No additional tips available.