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Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Bars


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  • Author: chef-emmy
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 20 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A nostalgic treat that combines creamy peanut butter and sweet frosting, reminiscent of school lunches and playground chatter.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks, softened)
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups quick oats
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (for frosting)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened, for frosting)
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for frosting)
  • 3-4 tablespoons milk (as needed, for frosting)
  • 2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)


Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it well.
  2. Cream together 1 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup creamy peanut butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, and 1 cup packed light brown sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
  3. Add in 2 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
  4. Whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a separate bowl.
  5. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined.
  6. Fold in 2 cups quick oats, ensuring even distribution without overmixing.
  7. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until lightly golden around the edges.
  8. While baking, prepare the frosting by mixing together 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, 4 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract.
  9. Gradually add 2 cups powdered sugar, alternating with 3-4 tablespoons of milk as needed until smooth and spreadable.
  10. Once the bars are baked and slightly cooled, spread the frosting liberally over the top.

Notes

Store bars in an airtight container for up to one week. Freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 3 months; thaw before enjoying. For best results, do not overmix the batter and ensure all ingredients are at room temperature.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg