Description
Enjoy the nostalgic taste of Lunch Lady Peanut Butter Bars—chewy oatmeal peanut butter bars topped with creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate frosting. A classic school cafeteria treat perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Peanut Butter Bars:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter, melted
For the Chocolate Frosting:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ¼ cup cocoa powder
- 3 tablespoons milk (adjust as needed)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
-
Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 13×18-inch baking sheet or line with parchment paper.
-
Cream the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract and eggs; mix well.
- Stir in creamy peanut butter until smooth.
-
Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually mix in oats, flour, baking soda, and salt until a cohesive dough forms.
-
Spread and Bake:
- Evenly spread dough onto prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 13-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Avoid overbaking to maintain a chewy texture.
-
Add the Peanut Butter Layer:
- While warm, spread melted peanut butter evenly over the bars.
- Let cool completely (refrigerate for 15 minutes to speed up).
-
Prepare the Chocolate Frosting:
- Cream butter in a bowl using a hand mixer.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, vanilla, and salt.
- Mix until smooth, adjusting milk as needed for consistency.
-
Frost the Bars:
- Spread chocolate frosting evenly over the cooled bars.
-
Serve:
- Cut into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for extended freshness.
- Freezing: Flash freeze cut bars, wrap in plastic, and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 13-15 minutes
- Category: dessert, bars
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Peanut Butter Bars, Lunch Lady Recipe, Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars, School Cafeteria Treats, Classic Dessert