Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars

Soft, chewy, and rich with peanut butter flavor, these Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars are a nostalgic treat inspired by the classic school cafeteria dessert. Made in a single sheet pan and slathered with a creamy peanut butter frosting, these bars are easy to make and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a party, potluck, or just craving a sweet snack, these cookie bars deliver big flavor with minimal effort.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Old-School Favorite – A beloved dessert that brings back memories.
One Pan Wonder – No need to roll or shape cookies—just bake and slice.
Ultra Chewy – Perfectly soft with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Rich & Sweet – Peanut butter in both the cookie and the frosting.
Perfect for Sharing – Makes a large batch for parties and gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cookie Bars:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt

For the Peanut Butter Frosting:

• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 3–4 tbsp milk (adjust for consistency)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Tools You’ll Need
13×9-inch baking pan
Hand or stand mixer
Mixing bowls
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Offset spatula or butter knife (for frosting)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Lightly grease a 13×9-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

1. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in the eggs and vanilla until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until fully combined.

Step 3: Bake the Bars

1. Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
2. Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set.
3. Do not overbake—bars should be soft in the center.
4. Remove from oven and cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, beat together peanut butter and butter until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and 3 tablespoons of milk. Beat until creamy.
3. If needed, add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, to reach desired spreading consistency.

Step 5: Frost & Serve

1. Once bars are completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top using an offset spatula.
2. Cut into squares or rectangles and serve.

Tips for Perfect Cookie Bars
Use Creamy Peanut Butter – For the smoothest texture and best classic flavor.
Cool Before Frosting – Make sure bars are fully cooled or the frosting may melt.
Don’t Overbake – Keep them soft by baking just until the edges are golden.
Line the Pan – Parchment paper helps with easy removal and cleaner slices.
Customize – Top with chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or drizzle with melted chocolate.

Serving Suggestions
With Milk – A classic combo that never fails.
As Dessert Squares – Great for parties, potlucks, or bake sales.
In Lunchboxes – A sweet treat to brighten up any meal.
Paired with Ice Cream – For an extra indulgent dessert.

How to Store & Freeze

Storing:
Room Temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Refrigerate: Store for up to a week if you prefer a firmer texture.

Freezing:
Freeze bars (unfrosted or frosted) in layers separated by parchment paper in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use natural peanut butter?
   For best results, use traditional creamy peanut butter. Natural versions can separate and alter texture.
2. Can I use chunky peanut butter?
   Yes! It adds a nice crunch if you prefer some texture in your bars.
3. What’s the best way to cut them cleanly?
   Chill the frosted bars for 20–30 minutes, then slice with a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.
4. Can I make these gluten-free?
   Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
5. Can I add mix-ins to the dough?
   Definitely! Try mini chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or chopped peanuts.

Final Thoughts
These Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars are everything you love about peanut butter cookies—made even better in soft, thick bar form with a luscious frosting. Easy to make, easy to slice, and even easier to devour, this nostalgic treat is perfect for anyone who craves sweet comfort food with a rich peanut butter twist.

Try them out and share your version! Tag your bakes and let the world see your delicious creations.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – based on 24 bars):
Calories: 290 | Protein: 5g | Carbohydrates: 32g | Fat: 16g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 170mg

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