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.
