Step 3: Bake
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Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
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Bake for 22–25 minutes, or until lightly golden and set (do not overbake — edges should be slightly firm, center soft).
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Let cool slightly before frosting.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
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In a bowl, beat together peanut butter and butter until smooth.
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Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and 2 tbsp milk.
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Beat until fluffy, adding more milk as needed to reach spreadable consistency.
Step 5: Frost & Serve
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Spread frosting over slightly warm bars for a melt-in effect — or let bars cool completely for a thicker top layer.
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Cut into squares or rectangles. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Tips & Variations
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Add chocolate chips to the dough for a Reese’s-style twist.
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Make it gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
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Double the batch for a crowd and bake in a large jelly roll pan.
❤️ Final Thoughts
These Peanut Butter Lunch Lady Cookie Bars are nostalgic, rich, and totally addictive. They’re perfect for bake sales, lunchbox treats, or an after-dinner sweet that brings back those old-school cafeteria vibes.
