Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars are the perfect combination of creamy peanut butter, soft cookie texture, and a rich, sweet frosting. They bring back nostalgic memories of school lunch desserts and make for a fun, easy treat to whip up. I love how simple the ingredients are, yet they come together to create something so indulgent. Whether you're making them for a family treat or a special gathering, these bars are sure to be a hit.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup milk, plus 2 tablespoons (divided)
1½ cups creamy peanut butter (divided)
1½ cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, softened (divided)
4 cups powdered sugar

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a large cookie sheet or line it with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, and ½ cup milk. Set aside.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup (2 sticks) of butter and 1 cup of peanut butter, stirring until smooth. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture, stirring until combined. Then add the egg mixture, mixing until well incorporated.
Pour the batter onto the prepared cookie sheet, spreading it evenly to the edges.
Bake for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely before frosting.
For the frosting: In a saucepan, melt the remaining ½ cup of peanut butter and 1 stick of butter over medium heat. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat.
Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of milk, then gradually mix in the powdered sugar until smooth and well combined.
Spread the frosting over the cooled bars, ensuring an even layer. Allow the frosting to set before cutting into squares.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Approximately 20 bars
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

Nut Butter Alternatives: Substitute almond or cashew butter for a different flavor profile.
Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk to make the recipe dairy-free.
Chocolate Topping: Add a layer of melted chocolate over the peanut butter frosting for a richer treat.
Crunchy Texture: Mix in chopped nuts or use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Storage/Reheating

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Refrigeration: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing: Wrap individual bars and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

How can I make these bars gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is designed for baking. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as baking soda and powdered sugar, are certified gluten-free.

Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?

While natural peanut butter can be used, it may affect the texture and consistency of the bars due to its oil separation. For best results, use a no-stir creamy peanut butter.

Is it possible to add chocolate to these bars?

Yes, adding a layer of melted chocolate over the peanut butter frosting can enhance the flavor. Simply melt your preferred chocolate and spread it over the set frosting, then allow it to cool and harden before cutting.

How do I prevent the frosting from becoming grainy?

To achieve a smooth frosting, ensure that the powdered sugar is sifted before mixing, and add it gradually to the melted butter and peanut butter mixture while stirring continuously.

Can I prepare these bars in advance?

Absolutely. These bars can be made ahead of time and stored as directed. In fact, allowing them to sit for a day can enhance the flavors.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars are a delightful blend of nostalgia and indulgence. Their rich peanut butter flavor, combined with a chewy base and smooth frosting, makes them a favorite for many. Easy to prepare and versatile, they are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a taste of sweet memories.

Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars

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Author: Sue
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: ~20 bars
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars are a nostalgic, school-cafeteria-inspired dessert featuring a chewy peanut butter base and creamy peanut butter frosting. A perfect sweet treat for potlucks, lunchboxes, or after-school snacks.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease or line a large cookie sheet.
In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk eggs, vanilla, and ½ cup milk.
Melt 1 cup butter and 1 cup peanut butter in a saucepan. Bring to boil, then remove from heat.
Mix dry ingredients into the peanut butter mixture. Stir in egg mixture until well combined.
Pour batter into prepared sheet. Spread evenly.
Bake for 20 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean. Let cool.
For frosting, melt remaining ½ cup peanut butter and 1 stick butter. Boil, then remove from heat.
Stir in 2 tablespoon milk, then powdered sugar gradually until smooth.
Spread frosting over cooled bars. Let set, then cut into squares.