Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars

by

Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars

Introduction

Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars are a nostalgic treat that brings back memories of school cafeterias where lunch ladies served up thick, soft, and chewy peanut butter bars topped with a rich frosting. These bars have a perfect balance of sweetness and peanut butter flavor, making them a favorite among dessert lovers. They are easy to make, require simple pantry ingredients, and are great for parties, potlucks, or just a sweet indulgence at home.

History of Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars

These cookie bars originated in school cafeterias across America, where lunch ladies baked large trays of soft, chewy peanut butter bars topped with a smooth peanut butter glaze. The recipe became widely loved by students, and over the years, it has been passed down through generations. The bars became a nostalgic treat for many who grew up in the 1970s and 1980s, as they were a staple of school lunch menus.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Bars:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup packed brown sugar

1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter

2 large eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

For the Frosting:

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

½ cup creamy peanut butter

2 cups powdered sugar

¼ cup milk (adjust for consistency)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Bars

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix until smooth.
  3. Add the peanut butter and mix well.
  4. Stir in the eggs and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until combined.
  7. Spread the dough evenly in the prepared baking pan.
  8. Bake for 22-25 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  9. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before frosting.

Step 2: Prepare the Frosting

  1. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter and peanut butter until smooth and creamy.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.
  3. Pour in the milk and vanilla extract, beating until you achieve a smooth and spreadable consistency.
  4. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cookie bars.

Step 3: Cut and Serve

  1. Once frosted, allow the bars to set for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
  2. Serve and enjoy!

Benefits of Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars

  1. Rich in Protein: Peanut butter is an excellent source of protein, helping to keep you full and satisfied.
  2. Energy Boosting: The combination of carbohydrates and healthy fats provides an energy boost, making these bars a great snack.
  3. Mood Enhancer: The sugar and peanut butter can enhance mood by boosting serotonin levels.
  4. Good Source of Healthy Fats: Peanut butter contains monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health.
  5. Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and an easy process make these bars a great homemade treat.

Formation and Texture of the Bars

Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars have a dense and chewy texture, similar to a thick peanut butter cookie. The frosting adds a smooth and creamy contrast to the slightly crumbly and soft base. The bars hold their shape well, making them ideal for slicing into squares or rectangles.

Lovers of Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars

These bars are adored by:

Children: A favorite lunchroom treat that brings back school memories.

Dessert Enthusiasts: Perfect for those who love peanut butter-based sweets.

Bakers: A simple and fun recipe that yields delicious results.

Snack Lovers: Great for an afternoon pick-me-up.

Party Hosts: Ideal for serving at gatherings, bake sales, and potlucks.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

Calories: 320

Carbohydrates: 38g

Protein: 6g

Fat: 17g

Saturated Fat: 6g

Sugar: 25g

Fiber: 2g

Sodium: 150mg

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars are a classic dessert that has stood the test of time. Their soft, chewy texture combined with a rich peanut butter frosting makes them a favorite among all age groups. Whether you’re making them for a nostalgic trip down memory lane or introducing them to a new generation, these bars are guaranteed to satisfy.

So, gather your ingredients, bake a batch, and enjoy the delicious goodness of these iconic peanut butter bars!

Leave a Comment