A chocolate confection that's holiday elegant, yet everyday easy.

Chocolate Creme de Menthe Bars

1 1/4 cups butter - divided use
3 1/2 cups powdered sugar - divided use
1/2 cup unsweetened baking cocoa
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/3 cup green crème de menthe
1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate

1. Melt 1 cup butter in a saucepan over low heat. Remove 1/2 cup melted butter and place in a small mixing bowl; set the rest aside. Whisk 1/2 cup powdered sugar, cocoa and vanilla into butter in bowl. Stir in graham cracker crumbs. Press mixture into bottom of a 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
2. Combine crème de menthe with remaining melted butter in a small bowl. Beat in 3 cups powdered sugar with an electric mixer at low speed until smooth. Spread evenly over crumb crust. Refrigerate for 1 hour, or until firm.
3. Meanwhile, combine remaining 1/4 cup butter with chocolate chips in a small saucepan. Cook over low heat until melted. Spread over chilled mint layer. Refrigerate for 1 hour, or until firm. Cut into squares.

Makes 16 squares.