Description
These Lunch Lady Peanut Butter Bars combine a rich, peanut buttery base with a smooth, sweet glaze, offering a soft and chewy texture perfect for snack time or dessert. With a blend of classic ingredients and a luscious icing, these bars bring nostalgic flavor and easy preparation to your kitchen.
Ingredients
Peanut Butter Bar Base
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 3 cups packed brown sugar
- 1⅓ cups peanut butter
- 1 tsp salt
- 5 large egg whites
- ½ cup canned applesauce
- 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 Tbsp baking powder
Peanut Butter Glaze
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup peanut butter
- 3 Tbsp corn syrup
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Line a half-sheet pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper and spray it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Make the Batter: In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine softened butter, packed brown sugar, peanut butter, and salt. Mix on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Then add the egg whites, canned applesauce, and vanilla extract; mix for 1 minute to incorporate fully. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet batter in the mixer. Mix on medium speed for about 1 minute until the dough is well combined.
- Bake the Bars: Spread the peanut butter batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Place it in the preheated oven and bake until the bars are set and the top is golden brown, about 25 to 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the bars are cooling, in a large mixing bowl, cream together powdered sugar and peanut butter using a hand mixer until smooth. Add corn syrup, milk, and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until the glaze is silky and well-combined.
- Glaze and Finish: Spread the peanut butter glaze evenly over the slightly cooled bars. Let the bars cool completely so the glaze can set properly. Once cooled and the glaze is firm, cut into squares and serve.
Notes
- Ensure the bars are completely cool before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting.
- You can substitute crunchy peanut butter for a bit of texture variation.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- For a richer flavor, use natural peanut butter without added sugar.
- If you prefer a sweeter glaze, increase powdered sugar by ¼ cup.