Myrtle School Cafeteria Peanut Butter Bars
Myrtle School Cafeteria Peanut Butter Bars are a nostalgic treat featuring a rich peanut butter flavor, chewy oats, and a buttery base. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, these bars are easy to make and loved by those who enjoy classic, comforting flavors with a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together until well combined.
- Spread a thin layer of the mixture into a greased pan.
- Bake until done, then cool.
- Frost before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth. You can also substitute half of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a deeper sweetness. If you're looking for a healthier option, try using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Ensure your butter is softened for easier mixing, and don't overmix once the oats are added to keep the bars chewy.
Serving Suggestions
These peanut butter bars are delicious on their own but can be enhanced with a drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of chopped nuts on top. Serve them with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. They also pair beautifully with Kahlua Pound Cake for a sweet treat combo at a gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store the peanut butter bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them, wrapped individually in plastic wrap, and then placed in a zip-top bag. To reheat, simply microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy them cold for a delightful snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Myrtle School Cafeteria Peanut Butter Bars contains roughly 429 calories, with 11g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 864mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make these peanut butter bars gluten-free by substituting regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially oats, are certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
How can I make these bars less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness, you can cut back on the granulated sugar by 1/4 cup or replace it with unsweetened applesauce, which will still keep the bars moist. You can also use natural peanut butter, which tends to be less sweet than commercial brands.
What can I use instead of eggs in this recipe?
If you need an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) for each egg. This will help bind the ingredients while keeping the bars moist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).