Print

Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars are a nostalgic and indulgent treat, featuring soft, chewy peanut butter bars topped with a creamy peanut butter frosting. This classic dessert combines the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with the sweetness of frosting, making it the perfect snack, dessert, or treat for any occasion. Whether you’re reminiscing about school lunches or just love peanut butter, these cookie bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Simple to make and customizable with add-ins like chocolate chips or oats, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

For the cookie bars:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky)

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • 1 cup packed brown sugar

  • 3 large eggs

  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon baking soda

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 cup rolled oats (optional, for extra texture)

For the frosting:

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

  • 1/2 cup peanut butter

  • 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar

  • 2-3 tablespoons milk (or more for desired consistency)

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

  • In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

  • Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. If using, fold in the oats.

  • Spread the dough evenly in the prepared pan. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

  • Allow the bars to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

  • While the bars cool, prepare the frosting. Beat together softened butter and peanut butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until combined. Add milk one tablespoon at a time until the frosting reaches your desired consistency, then stir in vanilla extract.

  • Once the bars are completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly on top. Slice into bars and serve.

Notes

  • Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate chips over the frosted bars for an added twist.

  • Crunchy Peanut Butter: Use crunchy peanut butter for extra texture in both the cookie dough and frosting.

  • Add-ins: Mini chocolate chips or chopped peanuts can be added to the dough for extra flavor and crunch.

  • Vegan Option: Use vegan butter, a flax egg, and plant-based milk for a vegan-friendly version.

Find it online: https://avarecipe.com/peanut-butter-lunch-lady-cookie-bars/