Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Bars

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Looking for a nostalgic treat that’s quick to make and packed with rich peanut butter flavor? These Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Bars deliver chewy, dense bars topped with creamy peanut butter frosting — perfect for school lunches, after-school snacks, or anytime you crave a classic peanut butter dessert

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic peanut butter flavor everyone loves

• Simple ingredients you probably already have on hand

• Soft, chewy bars with a creamy, decadent frosting

• Easy to make in one pan, no fancy equipment required

• Perfect for bake sales, school snacks, or casual dessert

Ingredients Breakdown

Bar Base:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the bars.

• 2 cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness.

• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bars rise slightly.

• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.

• ½ cup whole milk: Moistens the batter.

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds flavor depth.

• 2 large eggs, beaten: Bind ingredients and add richness.

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter: Adds moisture and buttery flavor.

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter: Gives the bars their signature peanut butter taste and texture.

Frosting:

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter: Creates a creamy base for the frosting.

• ½ cup creamy peanut butter: Intensifies the peanut butter flavor.

• 2 tablespoons milk: Thins the frosting for spreading.

• 4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.

Tips and Tricks

• For even bars, spread batter carefully and smooth the top before baking.

• Allow bars to cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.

• Use creamy peanut butter for smooth texture; chunky peanut butter will change the consistency.

• Store bars in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Variations and Customizations

• Add mini chocolate chips to the batter for a peanut butter-chocolate twist.

• Sprinkle chopped peanuts on the frosting before it sets for extra crunch.

• Substitute half the sugar with brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor.

• For a healthier version, use natural peanut butter and reduce sugar slightly.

Pairing Suggestions

• Serve with a cold glass of milk or your favorite coffee for the perfect snack.

• Pair with fresh fruit like apple slices or bananas for a balanced treat.

• Great accompaniment to vanilla or chocolate ice cream for dessert.

Storage Instructions

• Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• Refrigerate for longer freshness up to 1 week; bring to room temperature before serving.

• Bars can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Popular Questions

Can I use peanut butter powder instead of creamy peanut butter?

Powdered peanut butter is much drier and won’t provide the same richness; it’s best to stick with creamy peanut butter for this recipe.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt in the dry ingredients to avoid an overly salty taste.

How do I know when the bars are done?

The bars are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but texture may vary slightly.

Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Bars

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 24 bars 1x

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Description

These classic, rich bars combine a moist, peanut buttery base with a creamy peanut butter frosting—perfect for peanut butter lovers craving a nostalgic, sweet treat that’s easy to make and share.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ cup whole milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter

• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

• ½ cup creamy peanut butter

• 2 tablespoons milk

• 4 cups powdered sugar

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Grease a large sheet pan (approximately 13×18 inches) or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

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Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the milk, vanilla extract, and beaten eggs. Whisk lightly to blend.

Step 4: Melt Butter and Peanut Butter

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter together. Once the mixture reaches a gentle boil, immediately remove from heat.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Slowly stir the dry ingredients into the melted peanut butter mixture until combined. Then add the milk and egg mixture and stir until smooth and well incorporated.

Step 6: Bake the Bars

Pour and spread the batter evenly into your prepared pan. Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.

Step 7: Make the Frosting

In a small saucepan, melt butter and peanut butter together over medium heat. Bring just to a boil, then remove from heat. Stir in milk, then gradually add powdered sugar, stirring continuously until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.

Step 8: Frost the Bars

Pour the warm frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Use a spatula to spread it smoothly. Let the frosting set at room temperature before slicing into squares.

Notes

• These bars are a beloved retro dessert with a rich peanut butter flavor that kids and adults alike adore.

• Perfect for bake sales, lunchboxes, or a sweet treat after dinner.

• Easy to scale up for parties or gatherings by doubling the recipe.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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