Description
Lunch Lady Peanut Butter Bars are a nostalgic, chewy dessert that perfectly balances sweet, creamy, and nutty flavors. Easy to make with simple, wholesome ingredients, these bars are kid-friendly and perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or an everyday sweet treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy or chunky peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup powdered milk (sifted)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional but recommended)
Instructions
- Prepare the wet ingredients: Melt the peanut butter and butter together in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until the mixture is smooth and combined. Remove from heat, then whisk in granulated sugar and brown sugar until evenly blended. Add vanilla extract and stir to enhance the flavor.
- Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift the powdered milk to remove any lumps. Gradually add the powdered milk into the warm peanut butter mixture, stirring constantly to form a uniform, tender dough that holds together well.
- Add the chocolate chips: Fold the mini chocolate chips evenly through the dough to create pockets of melty chocolate in every bite, adding richness and indulgence to the bars.
- Press and chill the bars: Line a baking dish with parchment paper and press the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan using a spatula. Refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the bars to set properly before slicing into squares.
Notes
- Use natural peanut butter without added sugar for a richer, more intense peanut flavor.
- Sift powdered milk before mixing to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
- Chill bars thoroughly to make slicing easier and maintain the perfect chewy texture.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to prevent crumbly edges and help the bars hold together better.
- Store bars in airtight containers to keep them fresh and moist for longer periods.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake / Chilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: peanut butter bars, no-bake dessert, chewy peanut butter bars, lunch lady bars, kid-friendly dessert, gluten free snack