Experience the nostalgic charm of Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars with our irresistible recipe that captures the essence of classic childhood treats. These delectable bars boast a perfect balance of rich peanut butter flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, making them a beloved favorite for both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re reminiscing about school days or simply craving a comforting indulgence, these cookie bars are sure to bring a smile to your face. Join us as we guide you through crafting these delightful treats that are perfect for any occasion.
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
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Mix the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, beaten eggs, 1 cup of peanut butter, softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of milk, baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until well combined and a dough forms.
- Press into Pan:
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare Peanut Butter Frosting:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the remaining ½ cup of peanut butter, 2 tablespoons of milk, and powdered sugar. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until smooth and well combined.
- Frost the Bars:
- Spread the peanut butter frosting evenly over the warm cookie bars as soon as they come out of the oven.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares and serving.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars before serving.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped peanuts or peanut butter chips over the frosting for added texture and flavor.
- Extra Peanut Butter: Increase the amount of peanut butter in the dough for an even richer peanut butter flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy? A: Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter for added texture in the cookie dough and frosting.
Q: Can I make these cookie bars ahead of time? A: Absolutely! These bars can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze the cookie bars? A: Yes, you can freeze the bars in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Can I use margarine instead of butter? A: While butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use margarine as a substitute if needed.
Q: Can I use almond flour for a gluten-free version? A: Yes, you can substitute almond flour for the all-purpose flour to make gluten-free Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you can make the following substitutions:
- Flour: Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour for a lower-carb option.
- Sugar: Substitute erythritol or monk fruit sweetener for sugar in both the cookie dough and frosting.
- Milk: Use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk instead of regular milk to reduce the carb content.
- Peanut Butter: Opt for natural peanut butter without added sugar for a keto-friendly version.
In conclusion, Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that evokes memories of carefree days and sweet indulgence. With their rich peanut butter flavor, buttery texture, and creamy frosting, these bars are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or enjoying a moment of self-indulgence, these cookie bars are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet cravings. So whip up a batch today and experience the joy of homemade goodness in every bite!
