Peanut Butter Bars

We moved to Utah when I was in 5th grade.  It was the first time I had ever had school lunch.  Up until that point I always took a lunch from home.  It's just what we did.  But in 5th grade our class got to take a turn helping in the lunch room and in exchange each student got a free school lunch that day.  I can't remember what the main course was but I will never forget the dessert on my tray.  It was the most delicious thing I had ever tasted.  The perfect mixture of peanut butter and chocolate with just the right amount of each.  It was heavenly. 

A couple years later, while having a sleepover with my friend "Z", we decided to made some treats for the neighbors.  She pulled out a recipe card and on the top it said "Peanut Butter Bars".  I gasped, dreaming of that wonderful school lunch treat.  Could it be?  I asked her where she got the recipe, she smiled and said "I got it from the lunch lady." 

Peanut Butter Bars

1 c butter
1 c granulated sugar
1 c brown sugar
1 c peanut butter (creamy)
1 egg
2 TBSP vanilla
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 c flour
2 c quick oats

In a bowl, cream together, butter, sugars, peanut butter, egg, and vanilla.  Blend till smooth.  Then add remaining ingredients.  Blend until everything is mixed together. 

Press into a cookie sheet.  Bake at 350 degrees for 12-15 minutes.  While warm, spread 1/2 c peanut butter on the top.   Let cool for about 10 minutes.

For frosting:
3 TBSP cocoa powder
4 c powdered sugar
1/3 c butter
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 c warm milk
1 tsp vanilla

Beat together till well blended.  Then spread over peanut butter layer.  Enjoy!!