Description
These Lunch Lady Peanut Butter Bars combine a rich peanut butter oatmeal cookie base with a creamy peanut butter topping and a luscious chocolate frosting. Perfectly balanced in sweetness and texture, these bars are a nostalgic treat reminiscent of classic school lunches, offering a delightful combination of chewy oats, smooth peanut butter, and silky chocolate.
Ingredients
Cookie Base
- 1 cup (227g) salted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (200g) packed light brown sugar
- 2 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups (282g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups old-fashioned oats
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
Peanut Butter Topping
- 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter (melted)
Chocolate Frosting
- 1/2 cup (114g) salted butter, softened
- 3 cups (320g) powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (177℃) and spray a half-sheet baking sheet (13″x18″) with baking spray to prevent sticking.
- Make Cookie Dough: In a mixer, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and 1 cup of creamy peanut butter until the mixture is creamy and light. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, then beat again, ensuring to scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl for even mixing.
- Mix Dry Ingredients and Combine: Add the all-purpose flour, old-fashioned oats, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the dough. Spread this peanut butter oatmeal cookie dough evenly into the prepared pan using a spatula.
- Bake the Base: Bake for 15-17 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is just set but still slightly soft. Avoid overbaking to keep the bars chewy.
- Prepare Peanut Butter Topping: While the base is still hot, melt the remaining 1 1/2 cups of peanut butter in the microwave for 1 minute in a microwave-safe bowl. Drizzle this melted peanut butter evenly over the warm bars, spreading it into a smooth, even layer with a spatula or knife. Allow to cool completely so the topping firms up; refrigerate to speed this process if desired.
- Make Chocolate Frosting: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Frost the Bars: Spread the chocolate frosting evenly over the cooled peanut butter layer.
- Slice and Serve: Once set, cut the bars into 24 squares and serve.
Notes
- Do not overbake the base to maintain a chewy texture.
- Chilling the bars after applying the peanut butter topping helps to set layers quickly.
- Use creamy peanut butter for smooth texture in both the base and topping.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated for longer freshness.
