Nostalgic School Cafeteria Peanut Butter Bars Recipe

Lunch Ladies Peanut Butter Bars

Cook Time: 15 minutes
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 24
Yield: 24-32 cookies

Description:

Indulge in nostalgia with these Lunch Ladies Peanut Butter Bars, reminiscent of those school cafeteria delights we all remember fondly. This recipe is a cherished gem obtained through sheer persistence, ensuring an authentic taste that will transport you back to your school days. A delectable blend of sugar, butter, oats, and creamy peanut butter, topped with a luscious frosting, these bars are perfect for dessert tables, bake sales, or simply enjoying a sweet treat at home.

Recipe Category:

Bar Cookie

Keywords:

Dessert, Cookie & Brownie, Fruit, Nuts, < 60 Mins, For Large Groups, Oven

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 1 cup salted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter (for the batter)
• 2 cups old-fashioned oats
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter (for spreading on top)

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease or spray an 18×12 inch pan (also known as a half sheet pan).

2. Cream together the two sugars and butter for a couple of minutes until light and fluffy.

3. Add vanilla, eggs, and the first portion of creamy peanut butter to the sugar/butter mixture. Blend until smooth.

4. In a separate bowl, mix oats, flour, baking soda, and salt. Then, gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent a tough texture.

5. Spread the batter evenly onto the prepared pan.

6. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cookie should be set.

7. Allow the cookie to stand for about 5 minutes before spreading the second portion of creamy peanut butter on top. Take care to spread it evenly to avoid tearing the cookie. Waiting a few minutes before spreading helps prevent the cookie from breaking apart.

8. Cool the cookie completely to allow the peanut butter to solidify. Once cooled, spread frosting on top and let it set to facilitate cutting into bars. Traditionally, the bars are about 4 inches long by 1 1/2 inches wide.

Notes:

• Peanut Butter: It’s crucial to use the hydrogenated kind of peanut butter, the simple cheap stuff, for authentic flavor and texture. Organic or natural peanut butter won’t yield the same results as it doesn’t harden up like the cheaper variety.

• Frosting: While a regular chocolate buttercream frosting works beautifully, the frosting from a container off the shelf will also suffice. Choose based on preference and convenience.

Recipe Review:

With an aggregated rating of 4.5 stars from 12 reviews, these Lunch Ladies Peanut Butter Bars have garnered acclaim for their irresistible taste and nostalgic appeal. Reviewers praise the recipe for its straightforward instructions and the unmistakable flavor reminiscent of school days. The bars, with their perfect balance of sweetness and peanut butter richness, are sure to become a beloved favorite in your household.