Print

Classic Nostalgic Lunch Lady Peanut Butter Bars

A square of lunch lady peanut butter bars featuring a thick, chewy oat base and a smooth chocolate frosting layer.
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make the familiar, layered peanut butter bars reminiscent of school cafeteria treats. This recipe features a simple base, a creamy peanut butter layer, and a fudgy chocolate topping.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons milk

Instructions

  1. Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  2. Combine graham cracker crumbs and oats in a medium bowl. Pour in the 1/2 cup melted butter and mix until fully combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat together 1 cup confectioners’ sugar, 1 cup peanut butter, 1/2 cup softened butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Spread this peanut butter filling evenly over the crust.
  4. In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips, 1/2 cup peanut butter, and milk. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each, until the mixture is smooth.
  5. Pour the chocolate mixture over the peanut butter layer and spread evenly to cover.
  6. Refrigerate the bars for at least 3 hours, or until the chocolate topping is firm.
  7. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars from the pan. Cut into squares before serving.

Notes

  • For a slightly firmer base, you can bake the crust layer for 8 minutes at 350°F before cooling and adding the filling.
  • If you prefer a thicker chocolate layer, increase the chocolate chips to 2 cups and the milk to 3 tablespoons.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://eatableempress.com/lunch-lady-peanut-butter-bars-recipe/