Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars

by

Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars

Introduction

Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars are thick, soft, and chewy cookie bars with a rich peanut butter flavor, topped with a creamy peanut butter frosting. Inspired by the classic cafeteria-style desserts served in schools, these bars bring nostalgia and comfort in every bite. Perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or family gatherings, these bars are easy to make and irresistibly delicious.

Origin and Cultural Significance

The term “Lunch Lady” refers to the beloved school cafeteria workers who served comforting, homemade-style desserts to generations of students. Among their famous treats were cookie bars—often made in large batches and cut into generous squares. Peanut butter desserts became a staple in schools, particularly in the mid-20th century when peanut butter was an affordable, protein-rich ingredient. These cookie bars bring back memories of school lunch days while being just as delightful for modern-day home baking.

Ingredients Quantity

For the Cookie Bars:

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

For the Peanut Butter Frosting:

  • ½ cup butter, softened
  • ½ cup creamy peanut butter
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3-4 tablespoons milk (adjust for consistency)

Optional Additions

  • Chocolate Chips – Mix into the batter for a peanut butter-chocolate combo.
  • Chopped Peanuts – Sprinkle on top for extra crunch.
  • Caramel Drizzle – Adds a rich, gooey layer of sweetness.
  • Sea Salt – Enhances the peanut butter flavor.

Tips for Success

  • Use creamy peanut butter – Natural peanut butter may separate and affect the texture.
  • Do not overbake – The bars should be golden on the edges but soft in the center.
  • Spread the frosting while warm – This helps it melt slightly and creates a smooth, glossy finish.
  • Chill before cutting – This ensures clean, neat squares.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Bars

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Mix in peanut butter, eggs, and vanilla extract, beating until smooth.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until fully combined.
  6. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
  7. Bake for 22-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
  8. Let the bars cool slightly before frosting.

Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Butter Frosting

  1. In a medium bowl, beat butter and peanut butter until smooth.
  2. Add powdered sugar gradually, followed by vanilla extract.
  3. Mix in milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches a creamy, spreadable consistency.

Step 3: Frost and Serve

  1. Spread the frosting over the warm cookie bars.
  2. Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares.
  3. Enjoy with a glass of milk!

Description

These Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars are soft and chewy, with a perfect balance of sweet and salty peanut butter flavor. The rich and creamy peanut butter frosting melts into the bars, making every bite decadently smooth and satisfying.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fat: 17g
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Sodium: 120mg

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars are the ultimate comfort dessert, bringing back the sweet memories of school cafeteria treats. Whether you make them for a bake sale, a family gathering, or simply to satisfy your peanut butter cravings, these bars will quickly become a favorite.

Recommendation

Pair these bars with a cold glass of milk, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for an extra indulgent treat.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

For a healthier version, try:

  • Whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.
  • Natural peanut butter with no added sugar.
  • Less sugar in the frosting or using a honey-sweetened glaze.

Leave a Comment