Peanut Butter Bear Pops

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In a very large mixing bowl beat the peanut butter, butter and shortening with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, and baking soda. Beat until combined, scraping sides of bowl occasionally. Beat in eggs and vanilla until well combined. Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer. Stir in any remaining flour.
2. For each bear, working quickly, shape dough into one 1 1/4-inch ball, one 3/4- to 1-inch ball, two 1/2-inch balls and four 1-inch logs. (You will need about 2 tablespoons dough for each bear). On an ungreased cookie sheet, place the 1 1/4-inch ball for the body. Attach the 3/4- to 1-inch ball for a head. Carefully slide a lollipop stick into each bear through the bottom of the body and about halfway into the head. Place 1/2-inch balls on top of the head for ears. Place logs next to body for arms and legs. Gently press two miniature chocolate pieces onto head for eyes and one piece onto body for button. Gently press a peanut butter-flavored piece onto head for nose. Shape bears on cookie sheets, leaving 2 inches between each bear and leaving space for the lollipop sticks.
3. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the bodies of bears are set and edges are light brown. Cool on cookie sheet for 5 minutes. Carefully transfer to a wire rack and let cool.
4. Cut small red bows from fruit leather. Attach to bears with a dab of frosting. Let stand until set.