Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars

Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars are thick, chewy, and bursting with old-school peanut butter flavor. Inspired by the classic cafeteria-style treats I grew up loving, these bars are rich, nostalgic, and topped with a silky peanut butter glaze that makes them truly irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love these bars because they’re easy to make in one pan and perfect for sharing. The texture is soft and chewy with just the right amount of sweetness. The peanut butter glaze sets up beautifully on top, adding that signature lunch lady finish. They’re great for potlucks, bake sales, or whenever I’m craving a comforting peanut butter treat.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cookie bars:

• Unsalted butter (softened)

• Granulated sugar

• Brown sugar

• Creamy peanut butter

• Eggs

• Vanilla extract

• All-purpose flour

• Baking powder

• Salt

For the glaze:

• Creamy peanut butter

• Unsalted butter

• Powdered sugar

• Milk

• Vanilla extract

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In a large bowl, I cream together the butter, sugars, and peanut butter until smooth.

3. I beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.

4. I add the flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing until just combined.

5. I spread the thick dough evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.

6. While the bars bake, I make the glaze: in a saucepan, I melt the butter and peanut butter, then remove from heat and stir in the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.

7. I pour the warm glaze over the slightly cooled bars and spread it evenly.

8. I let the glaze set before slicing into bars.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 cookie bars. It takes 15 minutes to prep, 25 minutes to bake, and another 15–20 minutes to cool and glaze, so everything is ready in under an hour.

Variations

I sometimes stir chocolate chips into the dough or sprinkle chopped peanuts on top of the glaze for extra texture. For a sweeter finish, I drizzle melted chocolate over the glaze once it sets. I’ve also used crunchy peanut butter when I want more bite.

Storage/Reheating

I store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or in the fridge if I want the glaze to firm up more. These also freeze well—just layer with parchment paper and thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter?

I prefer using traditional creamy peanut butter because natural varieties can separate and affect the texture. If using natural, I make sure it’s well-stirred and thick.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, I often make them a day in advance. The flavor gets even better as they sit, and the glaze sets up beautifully.

What if I don’t have brown sugar?

I’ve used all white sugar in a pinch, but the brown sugar adds moisture and depth, so I recommend it if possible.

How do I get clean cuts?

I let the bars cool completely before slicing, and I use a sharp knife wiped clean between each cut for neat edges.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, I double it and bake in a half-sheet pan for large gatherings. Just keep an eye on the bake time—it may need a few extra minutes.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars are a nostalgic dessert that’s just as delicious today as it was back in school. With their chewy texture, rich peanut butter flavor, and smooth glaze, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether I’m baking for a group or treating myself to a classic favorite, this recipe never lets me down.

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