Peanut Butter Honey Bees

2 c creamy peanut butter
1/2 c land o lakes margarine softened
2 c powdered sugar
3 c graham cracker crumbs
1/2 c semi-sweet real chocolate chips
1 t shortening
almonds, Sliced
chow mein noodles

Combine peanut butter and margarine in large mixer bowl. Beat at medium speed, scraping bowl often, until creamy (1 to 2 minutes).
Add powdered sugar; reduce speed to low. Beat until well mixed (1 to 2 minutes).
Stir in graham cracker crumbs by hand. Shape rounded teaspoonfuls of mixture into 1 1/2-inch ovals.
Place on wax paper-lined cookie sheets.

Combine chocolate chips and shortening in small microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on High for 30 seconds; stir. Continue microwaving at 10 second intervals, stirring until mixture is melted and smooth (10 to 30 seconds). Cool slightly (2 to 3 minutes).
Place chocolate in small plastic resealable food bag. Cut very small tip from one corner of bag. For each honey bee, pipe three chocolate stripes on each oval; insert 2 almond slices in each side for wings. Insert 2 chow mein noodles in head for antenna; insert 1 short chow mein noodle for tail. Make small chocolate dots for eyes, if desired.

Refrigerate until firm (at least 30 minutes). Store refrigerated.

Tips: Substitute disposable pastry bag for plastic resealable food bag.

If dough is too soft, stir in additional powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency.

1999 Maryland State Fair