A Nostalgic Treat with Creamy Texture and Sweet Glaze

These Peanut Butter Cookie Bars are a modern twist on the classic “lunch lady” cookies served in school cafeterias. With a soft, cake-like texture, rich peanut butter flavor, and a sweet vanilla glaze, they’re perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.

A comforting blend of creamy and crunchy in every bite!


Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • 🥜 Peanut Butter Perfection: Deep, nutty flavor without being overly sweet.
  • 🧁 Creamy Base: The dough bakes into a tender, cake-like texture.
  • 🍯 Sweet Glaze Finish: Powdered sugar and vanilla balance the richness.
  • ⏱️ Quick & Easy: Just mix, press, bake, and drizzle—no chilling required.
  • 🎉 Great for Sharing: Ideal at school events, picnics, or family desserts.

Ingredients (Makes 12–16 bars):

For the Base:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter , softened (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar (or coconut sugar for a caramel twist)
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter (or almond or sunflower seed butter for allergy-friendly)
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature works best)
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract (divided use: 1 tsp in dough, 1 tsp in glaze)

For the Dry Ingredients:

  • 1½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt

For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar (or confectioners’ sugar substitute)
  • 2–3 tbsp milk or cream (adjust for glaze thickness)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Toppings:

  • Sprinkles
  • Chopped peanuts
  • Mini chocolate chips
  • Drizzle of melted chocolate or caramel

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prep Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) .

Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease lightly with butter or oil.


Step 2: Cream Butter, Sugar & Peanut Butter

In a large bowl, beat:

  • Butter
  • Granulated and brown sugars

until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes with a mixer).

Add peanut butter and beat until smooth.

Stir in eggs one at a time , followed by 1 tsp vanilla extract .


Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk:

  • Flour
  • Baking powder
  • Salt

Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low until just combined.

Tip: Avoid overmixing to keep the texture soft and cake-like.


Step 4: Press into Pan & Bake

Transfer dough to the prepared pan and press evenly with your hands or a spatula.

Bake for 20–25 minutes , or until edges are golden and center is set.

Let cool completely before glazing.


Step 5: Prepare the Vanilla Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk:

  • Powdered sugar
  • Milk or cream (start with 2 tbsp and add more for thinner glaze)
  • Vanilla extract

until smooth and slightly thickened.


Step 6: Glaze & Decorate

Drizzle glaze over cooled cookie bars.

Sprinkle with:

  • Chopped peanuts
  • Sprinkles
  • Mini chocolate chips

Let glaze set for 10–15 minutes before slicing.

Each bite brings together:

  • Soft, buttery peanut butter base
  • Silky, sweet glazed finish
  • And that classic nostalgic charm

Tips for Success:

  • 🧈 Use Room-Temp Butter & Eggs: Ensures smooth blending and no lumps.
  • 🥣 Glaze Hack: Add 1 tbsp cocoa powder to make a chocolate drizzle variation.
  • 🧁 Dough Tip: If sticky, chill dough for 5 minutes before pressing into pan.
  • 🍪 Texture Swap: Use crunchy peanut butter for extra nutty bite.
  • ❄️ Make Ahead Magic: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days—freeze for longer.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Perfect with coffee, milk, or a cold glass of lemonade.
  • Great for school lunches, afternoon tea, or late-night cravings.
  • Ideal as a gift or party treat—pair with a thermos of hot cocoa.

Nutritional Information (per bar, makes 12 – approximate):

(With regular butter and creamy peanut butter – per slice)

  • Calories: ~250 kcal
  • Protein: ~5g
  • Carbohydrates: ~25g
  • Fat: ~15g
  • Fiber: ~1g
  • Sugar: ~15g

These Peanut Butter Cookie Bars prove that nostalgic flavors can still surprise you. With their soft, rich base and sweet vanilla glaze—they’re a must-bake for lovers of peanut butter and childhood comfort treats.

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