Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Bars: A Nostalgic Treat with a Creamy Twist

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Bars:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 4 large eggs

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Frosting:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• ½ cup creamy peanut butter

• 2–3 cups powdered sugar

• ¼ cup milk (adjust for consistency)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Bars

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

• In a large bowl, cream together the butter, peanut butter, and sugar until smooth and fluffy.

• Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla.

• Stir in the flour and salt until just combined — don’t overmix.

• Spread the thick batter evenly into the prepared pan.

• Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the edges are set and a toothpick comes out mostly clean (slightly underbaked gives the best chewy texture).

2. Prepare the Frosting

• In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, peanut butter, and vanilla.

• Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with milk, until you reach a creamy, spreadable consistency.

• Taste and adjust sweetness or thickness as needed.

3. Assemble

• Let the bars cool for about 10–15 minutes after baking (they should still be slightly warm).

• Spread the frosting generously over the bars — the warmth helps it melt into a luscious glaze.

• Allow to cool completely before slicing into squares.

---

Tips for Success

• Don’t skip the frosting. It’s what gives these bars their signature “lunch lady” vibe.

• Try chunky peanut butter if you like a little crunch in every bite.

• Add a chocolate drizzle over the frosting for a peanut butter cup twist.

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days (or refrigerate for up to a week).