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Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars -spxwevolution.top

Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars

Indulge in nostalgic bliss with these irresistible Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars. Perfectly chewy, rich in peanut butter flavor, and ready in just 15 minutes, these bars will transport you back to your favorite school cafeteria memories while satisfying your sweet tooth.
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Ingredients
  

For the Crust:

  • 2 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 cup Unsalted Butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1/4 cup Brown Sugar

For the Filling:

  • 1 cup Peanut Butter (creamy or crunchy, whichever you prefer)
  • 1 cup Confectioners' Sugar
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter, softened
  • 2 large Eggs
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang for easy removal.

Prepare the Crust:

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  • In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  • Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix

Press the Crust:

  • Press the crust mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown.

Prepare the Filling:

  • In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the peanut butter, confectioners' sugar, and butter until smooth and creamy.
  • Beat in the eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.

Spread the Filling:

  • Spread the peanut butter filling evenly over the baked crust.

Melt the Chocolate:

  • Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.

Drizzle with Chocolate:

  • Drizzle the melted chocolate over the peanut butter filling.

Chill and Cut:

  • Refrigerate the bars for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
  • Cut into bars and serve.

Notes

Tips and Variations:
  • To ensure the crust is evenly baked, rotate the pan halfway through the baking time.
  • If using crunchy peanut butter, you may want to press the peanut butter mixture into the crust before baking to prevent the peanut butter from spreading too much.
  • For an extra crunchy topping, sprinkle some chopped peanuts or peanut butter chips over the melted chocolate before it sets.
  • Consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt over the chocolate for a salty-sweet contrast.
  • These bars are perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a sweet treat for lunchboxes. You can also customize them by adding your favorite mix-ins, such as chopped candy pieces or dried cranberries.
Storage and Shelf Life:
  • Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars!