Introduction

Lunch Lady Peanut Butter Bars are a nostalgic treat featuring a chewy peanut butter oatmeal base topped with a rich peanut butter layer and finished with smooth chocolate frosting. This easy-to-make dessert combines comforting flavors that satisfy any sweet tooth.

A large metal baking tray holds a square bar dessert cut into twelve pieces. The bottom layer is a golden, crumbly cookie crust, topped with a thick, smooth layer of light brown chocolate frosting spread evenly with visible swirled texture. Four pieces have been lifted from the tray and placed nearby, one on a white plate with a brown patterned rim and one in a woman's hand. A metal spatula with a black handle rests under one removed bar. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with a clear glass of water nearby and a white plate with brown speckles partially visible. A gray striped cloth is draped at the edge of the tray. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup salted butter, softened (227g)
1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
1 cup packed light brown sugar (200g)
2 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter, divided
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour, scooped & leveled (282g)
2 cups old-fashioned oats
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup salted butter, softened (114g)
3 cups powdered sugar
4 tablespoons cocoa powder
1/4 cup milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a half-sheet baking sheet (13″x18″) with baking spray to prepare it for the dough.
Step 2: In a mixer, beat together the 1 cup softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and 1 cup of peanut butter until creamy and light. Add the eggs and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, then beat again, scraping the bowl’s sides and bottom as needed.
Step 3: Add the flour, oats, baking soda, and salt to the mixture. Stir just until combined. Spread the peanut butter oatmeal dough evenly into the prepared pan using a spatula.
Step 4: Bake for 15-17 minutes, until the edges turn golden brown and the center is just set. Avoid overbaking to keep the bars soft.
Step 5: While the base is still warm, melt the remaining 1 1/2 cups peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl for about 1 minute. Drizzle it over the bars and spread into an even layer. Let it cool completely, or refrigerate to speed up the firming process.
Step 6: For the chocolate frosting, beat the 1/2 cup softened butter, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars.
Step 7: Once frosted, cut into squares and serve.

Tips & Variations

For a crunchier texture, substitute half the old-fashioned oats with quick oats.
Use natural peanut butter if you prefer a less sweet, more authentic peanut flavor.
If you want a more intense chocolate flavor, add an additional tablespoon of cocoa powder to the frosting.

Storage

Store the peanut butter bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them wrapped tightly and thaw at room temperature before serving. If refrigerated, allow the bars to come to room temperature before eating for the best texture.

How to Serve

Three stacked dessert bars sit on a white plate with faint circular lines. Each bar has three layers: the bottom layer is a textured light brown oat and nut mixture, the middle layer is a smooth caramel-colored filling, and the top layer is thick, glossy milk chocolate frosting, spread evenly with slight swirls. The background features a soft white marbled texture that is out of focus, and a woman's hand holding one bar can be partly seen near the plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture to the bars, giving each bite a bit of crunch.

How can I make these bars gluten-free?

Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend, and ensure your oats are certified gluten-free to make this recipe safe for gluten-sensitive diets.