Name: Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487465H55M12S
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 3/4 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; Optional: 1/2 cup rolled oats; Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips or chopped peanuts

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I make Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars when I want a nostalgic, chewy treat that combines rich peanut butter flavor with soft, buttery cookie layers. These bars are easy to bake and perfect for packing into lunches or enjoying as a sweet snack.

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

What I love most about this recipe is how it captures that classic “lunch lady” cookie taste with minimal effort. The peanut butter adds a deep, nutty richness, while the bars stay soft and chewy, making them incredibly satisfying. They’re great for sharing and always disappear fast.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
• creamy peanut butter
• unsalted butter, softened
• granulated sugar
• brown sugar
• eggs
• vanilla extract
• all-purpose flour
• baking soda
• salt
• rolled oats (optional for texture)
• chocolate chips or chopped peanuts (optional)

directions

I start by creaming together the peanut butter, butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy. Then I beat in the eggs and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, I whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt, then gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. If I want extra texture, I fold in rolled oats and chocolate chips or chopped peanuts. I spread the batter evenly in a greased baking pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes until golden and set. Once cooled, I cut them into bars.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 16 bars. Prep takes 10 minutes, and baking takes 20–25 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-salty contrast. Swapping half the peanut butter for almond or sunflower seed butter gives a different nutty flavor. I’ve also mixed in mini butterscotch chips for a sweet twist.

storage/reheating

I store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. They’re perfect served at room temperature and don’t need reheating.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but I recommend stirring it well and adjusting wet ingredients slightly if needed.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

I substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

How do I keep the bars chewy?

I avoid overbaking and make sure not to add too much flour.

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, I wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Definitely, both add great texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars are one of my favorite easy, nostalgic treats that satisfy peanut butter cravings with chewy, buttery goodness. They’re simple to make and always a hit.