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Lunch Lady Peanut Butter Bars Recipe

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4 from 3 reviews

Lunch Lady Peanut Butter Bars are a rich and indulgent treat combining a chewy peanut butter oatmeal cookie base with a creamy peanut butter layer and a smooth chocolate frosting on top. Perfect for lunchbox snacks, potlucks, or anytime you crave a classic peanut butter and chocolate combination.

Ingredients

Cookie Base

  • 1 cup salted butter, softened (227g)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar (200g)
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour, scooped & leveled (282g)
  • 2 cups old-fashioned oats
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Peanut Butter Layer

  • 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter

Chocolate Frosting

  • 1/2 cup salted butter, softened (114g)
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 4 tablespoons cocoa powder
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a half-sheet baking sheet (13″x18″) with baking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Make the Cookie Dough: In a mixer, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and 1 cup of peanut butter until the mixture is creamy and light. Add the eggs and vanilla extract and beat again, scraping down the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure even mixing.
  3. Add Dry Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, oats, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture. Mix just until combined, being careful not to overmix. Then spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan with a spatula.
  4. Bake the Base: Bake the peanut butter oatmeal cookie base for 15-17 minutes, or until it is golden brown around the edges and only barely set in the middle. Avoid overbaking to keep the bars chewy.
  5. Make Peanut Butter Layer: While the base is still hot, melt the remaining 1 1/2 cups of peanut butter in the microwave in a microwave-safe bowl for about 1 minute until smooth. Drizzle this melted peanut butter evenly over the warm cookie base and spread with a spatula or knife into a smooth layer. Let cool completely to allow it to firm up; chilling in the fridge will speed up this process.
  6. Prepare Chocolate Frosting: Beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  7. Top and Serve: Spread the chocolate frosting evenly over the cooled peanut butter layer. Once the frosting is set, cut into 24 squares and serve.

Notes

  • Do not overbake the cookie base to maintain a chewy texture.
  • Chilling the bars after adding the peanut butter layer helps it firm up faster.
  • Use creamy peanut butter for a smoother texture.
  • Storing bars in an airtight container at room temperature keeps them fresh for up to 4 days; refrigerate for longer storage.
  • For a nut-free alternative, substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter, but note flavor differences.

Find it online: https://cookedbysarah.com/lunch-lady-peanut-butter-bars-recipe/