Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that perfectly blend the richness of peanut butter with the sweetness of frosting. These bars, reminiscent of the beloved school cafeteria cookies, offer a comforting taste of nostalgia combined with homemade goodness. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re craving a sweet snack or planning a gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups flour
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 ½ cup peanut butter, divided
- 1 ½ cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup milk + 2 tablespoons, divided
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Directions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Grease a large cookie sheet or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside for later use.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together ½ cup of milk, vanilla extract, and beaten eggs until well combined. Set this mixture aside as well.
- Melt Butter and Peanut Butter: In a saucepan, melt 1 cup (2 sticks) of butter and 1 cup of peanut butter together over medium heat, bringing them to a gentle boil.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Remove the saucepan from the heat, and slowly add the dry flour mixture to the melted butter and peanut butter. Then, pour in the milk and egg mixture, stirring until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Bake the Bars: Pour the batter onto the prepared cookie sheet, spreading it evenly to the edges. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Frost: Allow the baked bars to cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a saucepan, bring 1 stick of butter and ½ cup of peanut butter to a boil. Add 2 tablespoons of milk and gradually mix in the powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth and well combined.
- Frost the Bars: Pour the warm frosting over the cooled bars, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface. Allow the frosting to cool and set before serving.
Tips:
- Ensure the butter and peanut butter are completely melted and mixed well for a smooth batter.
- Let the bars cool entirely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- For easier cutting, chill the bars briefly in the refrigerator after the frosting has set.
Conclusion:
These Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars are sure to become a favorite among friends and family. With their irresistible combination of peanut butter goodness and sweet frosting, they’re a treat that evokes memories of childhood and cozy gatherings. Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade goodness with every delicious bite!
1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter in this recipe?
- Yes, you can absolutely use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a bit of texture in your cookie bars. The crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful crunch to the bars and enhance the overall peanut flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different compared to using creamy peanut butter.
2. Can I substitute ingredients like butter or sugar for healthier alternatives?
- While you can experiment with substitutions, it’s essential to understand that altering ingredients may affect the taste, texture, and outcome of the cookie bars. Substituting butter with margarine or coconut oil may alter the flavor and texture, and using alternative sweeteners like honey or maple syrup may change the sweetness and moisture content of the bars. If you’re looking for healthier options, consider moderation and portion control rather than complete substitution.
3. How do I store these Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars?
- To keep your cookie bars fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you live in a warm climate or during hot summer months, you may want to store them in the refrigerator to prevent the frosting from melting. Simply allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
4. Can I freeze these cookie bars for later consumption?
- Yes, you can freeze these Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars for future enjoyment. Once the bars have cooled completely and the frosting has set, cut them into individual servings or desired portions. Place the bars in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer the frozen bars to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Stored properly, the bars will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the bars in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before serving.