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Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Bars pinterest

Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Bars

These nostalgic peanut butter bars bring back memories of school cafeteria desserts with their irresistible combination of a soft cookie base and glossy peanut butter frosting. Simple to make and perfect for sharing!
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Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Peanut Butter Bars, Lunch Lady Bars, School Dessert, Nostalgic Treats
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Cooling Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 24 bars
Calories: 285kcal

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch Baking Pan
  • Parchment Paper
  • Electric Mixer
  • Medium Saucepan

Ingredients

Cookie Base

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened (1 stick)
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter natural or conventional
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar packed
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract pure
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Peanut Butter Frosting

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (1/2 stick)
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 3-4 tbsp milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
  • In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
  • Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. For the authentic texture, don't compress the dough too firmly – a light touch with slightly damp hands works perfectly.
  • Bake for 18-20 minutes until the edges are lightly golden and the center appears set but still soft.
  • While the bars are cooling, make the frosting. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the butter and peanut butter together until smooth.
  • Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons of milk, and vanilla extract until silky and spreadable. Add the additional tablespoon of milk if needed for perfect consistency.
  • While the bars are still warm (but not hot), spread the frosting evenly over the surface. This allows some frosting to slightly melt into the top layer for that signature lunch lady bar quality.
  • Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Notes

Feel free to substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter if you have allergy concerns.
For gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum.
Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze individual bars for up to 3 months.
Don't overbake - bars should remain slightly soft in the center when removed from the oven.

Nutrition

Calories: 285kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 35mg | Sodium: 180mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 25g
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