These peanut butter bars were dessert with our school lunch at Milan Elementary. Since mom was a teacher at the school, she knew the cooks and was able to get her hands on the original recipe. Really the peanut butter part is the magic and the only part of the recipe I needed. I have adjusted the peanut butter to butter to sugar ratio to get the best balance of flavors.

Prep time – 15 minutes / Cooling time – 6 hours

Peanut butter layer

  • 2 C. creamy peanut butter
  • 1/2 C. butter (1 stick melted, unsalted butter)
  • 1/2 C. light brown sugar
  • 1 t. vanilla
  • 2 C. powdered sugar

Chocolate frosting

  • 1/2 C. butter (1 stick softened)
  • 1/2 C. coco
  • 2 C. powdered sugar
  • 3/4 C. half and half
  • 1 t. vanilla

Peanut butter layer- In medium bowl, add peanut butter, light brown sugar and mix with hand mixer. Gradually add melted butter, and powdered sugar, one half cup at a time. Add vanilla. Mix well, for about 3 to 4 minutes. Spread in an even layer in a half sheet pan.

Chocolate frosting instructions- In a medium bowl, with a hand mixer, whip butter with coco. Add powdered sugar, one half cup at a time, alternating with half and half. Add vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Whip until smooth and fluffy. Spread over peanut butter layer, cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least 6 hours.

Cut into one inch squares or whatever size you prefer, it is very rich!