Candy Bar Cookies On-a-Stick

1 C. peanut butter

1/2 C. margarine or butter

1/2 C. shortening

1 1/2 C. granulated sugar

1/2 C. packed brown sugar

1 1/2 t. baking soda

2 eggs

1 t. vanilla

2 1/4 C. all-purpose flour

40 wooden sticks

40 miniature-size (about 1" square) chocolate-coated, caramel-topped nougat candy bars (with or without peanuts) or 20 fun-size candy bars (about 2x1" rectangles), halved crosswise

Optional small multicolor decorative candies, chopped nuts, and/or colored sugar

Optional melted chocolate or frosting

Beat peanut butter, margarine or butter, and shortening in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, and baking soda; beat till combined.

Beat in eggs and vanilla till combined.

Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer on medium speed, scraping sides of bowl occasionally. stir in any remaining flour with a wooden spoon.

Insert a wooden stick into each candy bar piece.

Form about 2 tablespoons dough into a ball shape around each candy bar piece, making sure the candy is completely covered.

If desired, roll ball in decorative candies, nuts, or colored sugar, gently pushing candies or nuts into dough.

Place cookies 2 1/2 inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet.

Bake in a 325°F. oven for 15 to 20 minutes or till golden and set.

Cool on cookie sheet for 5 minutes. Remove from cookie sheet and cool completely on rack.

If desired, drizzle or frost the cookies with melted chocolate or frosting.

Makes about 40.