A sweet throwback that never goes out of style.
There’s a reason school cafeteria recipes stick with us—they’re simple, satisfying, and made to please a crowd. These Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars are no exception. Inspired by those classic lunchroom desserts we all remember (and secretly loved), this version brings all the soft, salty-sweet goodness of the original… but better.
These cookie bars are baked in a sheet pan, which means no scooping, no chilling, and no rolling dough. Just spread the batter and bake—easy as that. The result? A batch of soft, rich peanut butter bars with a fudgy texture that’s more like a brownie than a traditional cookie.
And the frosting? Oh, the frosting. It’s a warm, silky peanut butter glaze that seeps into the top of the bars and sets with just the right amount of creamy sweetness. It’s honestly the kind of dessert that doesn’t last long—especially if you’ve got family or neighbors around.
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Why These Bars Belong in Your Recipe Box
One pan = less mess – Perfect for potlucks, parties, and bake sales.
Full peanut butter flavor – In both the base and the frosting.
Salty-sweet perfection – A balance that’s hard to beat.
Feeds a crowd – Makes 16–24 bars.
Make ahead – The texture only improves the next day!
Helpful Tips
Don’t skip the parchment paper if you want easy removal and clean edges.
Let the bars cool completely before pouring the warm frosting—this gives the top a glossy finish without melting into the cake.
Want to change it up? Swap in chocolate frosting or sprinkle with chopped peanuts.
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