Description

Thick, soft, and slathered in creamy peanut butter frosting—these Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars are pure nostalgia in a pan. Inspired by the old-school cafeteria favorite, this recipe brings back that warm, sweet scent of peanut butter and vanilla that used to drift through the lunch line. Made with simple ingredients, these bars are perfectly chewy, rich, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. One bite, and you’ll be transported straight back to the good old days—minus the plastic tray!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Bars

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
1½ cups creamy peanut butter (divided)
1½ cups unsalted butter, softened (3 sticks)
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt

For the Frosting

½ cup peanut butter (reserved from above)
4 cups powdered sugar
½ cup milk (whole or evaporated for extra creaminess)
Pinch of salt

Instructions

Preheat & Prep
Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line with parchment for easy lifting.
Make the Batter
Beat together butter, sugar, and 1 cup of peanut butter until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes). Mix in eggs and vanilla until smooth.
Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix into the wet ingredients until just combined—don’t overmix!
Bake
Spread batter evenly in the pan and bake for 22–25 minutes, until golden and set at the edges but soft in the center. Cool completely before frosting.
Frosting Time
Warm milk and remaining ½ cup peanut butter over low heat until smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in powdered sugar and a pinch of salt until glossy and spreadable. Pour over cooled bars and spread evenly.
Set & Slice
Let frosting set for about an hour for clean squares—or dig in while it’s still gooey and irresistible!

Notes

Use creamy Jif or Skippy for the most authentic “school cafeteria” flavor.
Slightly underbake for soft, chewy bars.
Top with flaky sea salt or mini chocolate chips for a modern twist.

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins

Nutrition

Calories: 290 Cal per bar