Lunch Lady Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are thick, soft, and chewy cookie bars just like the ones served in school cafeterias. They have a buttery cookie base packed with chocolate chips and topped with a simple chocolate frosting that makes them extra nostalgic and irresistible. This is an easy dessert that feeds a crowd and is perfect for bake sales, parties, or family treats.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookie bars are soft in the center, slightly chewy on the edges, and full of rich chocolate flavor. They are easier than making individual cookies and taste just like classic school lunch desserts.
Ingredients
For the cookie bars
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1½ cups brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
For the chocolate frosting
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the pan
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Mix wet ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
Step 3: Add dry ingredients
Stir in the flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix just until combined, then fold in the chocolate chips.
Step 4: Bake
Spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set but still soft.
Step 5: Make the frosting
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the milk and cocoa powder. Remove from heat and whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.
Step 6: Frost the bars
Pour the frosting over the warm cookie bars and spread evenly. Let cool completely before slicing.
Variations
- Use milk chocolate chips for a sweeter flavor
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans
- Skip the frosting for classic cookie bars
- Use mini chocolate chips for even distribution
- Add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth
Cooking Notes
- Do not overbake or the bars will be dry
- Bars will firm up as they cool
- Frosting spreads best while bars are warm
- Use a metal pan for even baking
- Line the pan for easy removal and slicing
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled or at room temperature
- Cut into small squares for parties
- Pair with a glass of cold milk
- Serve as a school-style dessert tray
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top
Tips
- Measure flour correctly to avoid dry bars
- Let bars cool fully before cutting for clean slices
- Store covered to keep them soft
- Use an offset spatula for smooth frosting
- These bars taste even better the next day
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (Approx.)
- Calories: 320 per bar
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 16g
- Protein: 3g
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, they store very well and taste great the next day.
Can I freeze cookie bars?
Yes, freeze unfrosted or frosted bars tightly wrapped for up to 2 months.
What makes them lunch lady style?
The thick cookie base and chocolate frosting give them the classic school cafeteria taste.
Conclusion
Lunch Lady Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are a timeless dessert that brings back childhood memories with every bite. They are soft, rich, easy to make, and perfect for sharing.