Description
Chewy, buttery, and topped with a thick layer of rich peanut butter frosting, these Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars are a nostalgic dessert that brings back the best school cafeteria memories. Baked in a single sheet pan, these bars are super simple to make and perfect for parties, bake sales, potlucks, or just treating yourself to something sweet and satisfying.
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Ingredients
For the 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 light brown sugar, packed
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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 your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Lightly grease a 13×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy lifting.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
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In a large bowl, cream together the butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
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Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
Step 3: Bake the Bars
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Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth out the top.
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Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is just set.
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Let the bars cool completely in the pan before frosting.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
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In a mixing bowl, beat together the peanut butter and butter until smooth and creamy.
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Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
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Mix in 3 tablespoons of milk and continue beating until the frosting is fluffy. Add more milk as needed to reach a spreadable consistency.
Step 5: Frost & Slice
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Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars using an offset spatula.
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Cut into squares or rectangles and serve.
Notes
Don’t Overbake – The center should be just set for a chewy texture.
Cool Before Frosting – Warm bars will melt the frosting.
Use Classic Peanut Butter – Avoid natural peanut butter for the best structure and taste.
Make It Fancy – Add chopped peanuts, mini chocolate chips, or a drizzle of melted chocolate on top.
Easy Cutting – Chill the frosted bars for 15–20 minutes before slicing for cleaner edges.