Introduction
Lunch Lady Bars, also known as Peanut Butter Bars, are a delicious and indulgent treat that bring back nostalgic memories of school lunches. These bars are the perfect combination of sweet and salty, with a rich and creamy peanut butter flavor that will have you coming back for more. Whether you’re making them for a bake sale, a potluck, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, Lunch Lady Bars are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make these irresistible Lunch Lady Bars:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 ½ cups creamy peanut butter
– 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Steps
Follow these simple steps to make your own batch of Lunch Lady Bars:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the melted butter, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and peanut butter. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, using your hands or the back of a spoon to create an even layer.
3. In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
4. Pour the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
5. Place the baking dish in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is set.
6. Once the bars are chilled, cut them into squares and serve. Enjoy!
Variations
While the classic Lunch Lady Bars recipe is undeniably delicious, there are a few variations you can try to mix things up:
– Add some chopped peanuts on top of the chocolate layer for extra crunch.
– Swap out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate or dark chocolate for a different flavor profile.
– Drizzle some caramel sauce over the top of the bars before adding the chocolate layer for a caramel peanut butter twist.
Tips
Here are a few tips to help you achieve perfect Lunch Lady Bars:
– Make sure to fully melt the butter before adding it to the graham cracker crumbs and peanut butter. This will ensure that the crust holds together properly.
– Use a greased baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent the bars from sticking.
– Allow the bars to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before cutting them. This will make it easier to achieve clean and neat cuts.
– Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Conclusion
Lunch Lady Bars, with their irresistible combination of peanut butter and chocolate, are a classic treat that never fails to satisfy your sweet cravings. Whether you enjoyed them in the school cafeteria or you’re discovering them for the first time, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your household. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a batch of these indulgent bars in no time. So go ahead, grab a glass of milk, and treat yourself to a delicious homemade Lunch Lady Bar.
FAQs
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
A: Yes, you can definitely use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer the added texture.
Q: Can I freeze Lunch Lady Bars?
A: Yes, you can freeze these bars for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container before freezing.
Q: Can I use a different type of cracker for the crust?
A: While graham cracker crumbs are the traditional choice for the crust, you can experiment with other types of cracker crumbs, such as digestive biscuits or chocolate wafers, for a different twist.
