Description
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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Ingredients
For the Cookie Bars:
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 cup creamy peanut butter
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1 cup granulated sugar
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1 cup packed light brown sugar
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2 large eggs
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2 tsp vanilla extract
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 tsp baking soda
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½ tsp salt
For the Peanut Butter Frosting:
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½ cup creamy peanut butter
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¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
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2 cups powdered sugar
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3–4 tbsp milk (adjust for consistency)
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1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Lightly grease a 13×9-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
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In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
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Beat in the eggs and vanilla until well combined.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
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Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until fully combined.
Step 3: Bake the Bars
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Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top.
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Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the center is set.
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Do not overbake—bars should be soft in the center.
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Remove from oven and cool completely in the pan before frosting.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
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In a medium bowl, beat together peanut butter and butter until smooth.
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Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and 3 tablespoons of milk. Beat until creamy.
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If needed, add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, to reach desired spreading consistency.
Step 5: Frost & Serve
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Once bars are completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top using an offset spatula.
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Cut into squares or rectangles and serve.
Notes
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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: American