Description

These Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Bars are soft, rich dessert bars packed with peanut butter flavor and topped with a creamy peanut butter frosting that melts slightly into the warm base. Inspired by classic school cafeteria treats, this easy sheet-pan dessert is perfect for potlucks, parties, and nostalgic homemade baking.

Ingredients

For the Bars

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¾ cup creamy peanut butter
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup milk

For the Frosting

¼ cup unsalted butter
½ cup creamy peanut butter
2 cups powdered sugar
3–4 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, mix melted butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Stir in the milk until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a smooth batter forms.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Bake for 18–22 minutes or until the bars are lightly golden and set in the center.
While the bars bake, prepare the frosting by melting butter and peanut butter together in a saucepan over low heat.
Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour the warm frosting over the bars immediately after removing them from the oven.
Spread the frosting evenly over the surface.
Allow the bars to cool completely so the frosting sets.
Slice into squares and serve

Notes

Pouring the frosting onto warm bars allows it to melt slightly into the surface for the classic lunch lady texture.Creamy peanut butter works best for smooth bars and frosting.For a sweet and salty twist, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top of the frosting.Let the bars cool fully before cutting to achieve neat squares.These bars are perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or family gatherings.