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Soft Peanut Butter Frosted Bars

A beloved throwback to classic school cafeteria desserts, these bars feature a tender, peanut butter-infused base topped with a smooth, creamy layer of chocolatey frosting. Delightfully rich and satisfying, they’re ideal for social gatherings, festive events, or an indulgent homemade treat.
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Course: Bars, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Soft Peanut Butter Frosted Bars
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients

For the Peanut Butter Bars

  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla essence
  • 1 cup smooth peanut butter
  • ½ teaspoon fine salt
  • 2 cups old-fashioned quick oats
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 sticks 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 1 cup light brown sugar firmly packed
  • 1 cup white granulated sugar
  • 2 cups plain all-purpose flour

For the Frosting

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups sifted confectioners’ sugar
  • 3 to 4 tablespoons whole milk adjust as needed
  • ½ cup creamy peanut butter

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 10x15-inch rimmed baking sheet or line with parchment paper for easy removal.
  • In a large mixing bowl, blend together the butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Add the eggs individually, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk the flour with baking soda and salt. Slowly incorporate the dry mixture into the creamed mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the oats to complete the batter.
  • Evenly distribute the batter across the prepared pan, smoothing the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned and a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean. Avoid overbaking.
  • Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool entirely in the pan before frosting.
  • For the frosting, cream together the peanut butter and butter in a bowl until smooth. Add the vanilla, then gradually beat in the powdered sugar, alternating with milk until the mixture becomes fluffy and spreadable.
  • Once the bars have cooled, evenly spread the frosting across the surface. Slice into squares or rectangles and serve.