Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars
There’s something incredibly nostalgic about the classic combination of peanut butter and jelly. It reminds us of childhood lunches, picnics, and warm afternoons spent in the sun. But why limit that delightful duo to sandwiches when you can transform it into a luscious dessert? These Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars are not only simple to make, but they also pack a punch of flavor and texture that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for an easy treat for school lunches, or simply craving something sweet, these bars will hit the spot!
Why I Love This Recipe
What’s not to love about Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars? They are rich, chewy, and satisfyingly sweet with a hint of saltiness from the peanut butter. The creamy texture pairs beautifully with the fruity jam, making each bite a perfect balance of flavors. Plus, the recipe is incredibly straightforward, allowing anyone, even novice bakers, to whip up a batch in no time. These bars also make for a fantastic make-ahead dessert, perfect for busy weeks.
What Goes Into Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars
- 1 cup butter, room temperature
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 ½ cups jam (your favorite flavor)
- 1 cup salted peanuts, coarsely chopped (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Equipment Breakdown
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a large bowl for combining wet ingredients and a separate bowl for dry ingredients.
- Electric Mixer: A stand or hand mixer will help you cream the butter and sugar together effortlessly.
- Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch baking pan works perfectly for this recipe.
- Spatula: For spreading the batter and jam evenly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key in baking!
Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars — Do This Next
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line your baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the room temperature butter and granulated sugar. Use your electric mixer to beat until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat until combined, ensuring everything is well-incorporated.
Step 4: Incorporate Peanut Butter
Next, add the creamy peanut butter to the mixture. Beat until the peanut butter is fully integrated and the mixture is smooth.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
Step 6: Spread the Batter
Spread about two-thirds of the peanut butter batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer.
Step 7: Add Jam
Spoon your favorite jam over the batter, spreading it gently to cover as much as possible without disturbing the base layer.
Step 8: Finish with Batter
Dollop the remaining peanut butter batter over the jam layer. Use a spatula to spread it out gently, ensuring some of the jam is still visible.
Step 9: Optional Peanuts
If using, sprinkle the coarsely chopped salted peanuts on top of the batter for added texture and crunch.
Step 10: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 11: Cool and Dust
Let the bars cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing into squares.
Holiday & Seasonal Touches
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor during the fall.
- Use seasonal jams, like cranberry or apple, for a festive twist during the holidays.
- Top with holiday-themed sprinkles for a fun and colorful presentation.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert during summer gatherings.
Flavor Logic
The combination of peanut butter and jelly is a classic for a reason. The creamy, rich peanut butter provides a luscious backdrop for the sweet and tart jam, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Adding salted peanuts enhances the experience with a satisfying crunch and a hint of saltiness that perfectly complements the sweetness of the bars. This recipe allows for customization; you can use any flavor of jam that tickles your fancy, whether it’s strawberry, raspberry, or even a zesty apricot. The beauty of Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars is that you can truly make them your own!
Storing Tips & Timelines
These Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars store beautifully, making them a convenient treat to have on hand. Here are some tips:
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the bars in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
- Thaw frozen bars in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before enjoying.
Top Questions & Answers
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add an extra layer of texture to your bars, making them even more delightful.
What type of jam works best for this recipe?
You can use any flavor of jam you love! Strawberry, raspberry, or grape are all classic choices, but feel free to experiment with other fruit spreads as well.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend, and you’ll have delicious gluten-free Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to avoid overbaking.
Weekend Projects
- Sally’s Baking Addiction – Explore more delicious dessert recipes to try this weekend.
- Pinch of Yum – Check out their array of easy baking projects that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
- Minimalist Baker – Find simple, quick recipes that focus on whole ingredients for your baking adventures.
Wrap-Up
These Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars are more than just a sweet treat; they are a delightful way to relive those cherished childhood moments while enjoying a delicious dessert. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just for yourself, these bars are sure to bring joy and satisfaction. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in a batch of these heavenly bars. Happy baking!
Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line your baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the room temperature butter and granulated sugar. Use your electric mixer to beat until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat until combined, ensuring everything is well-incorporated.
- Next, add the creamy peanut butter to the mixture. Beat until the peanut butter is fully integrated and the mixture is smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Spread about two-thirds of the peanut butter batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer.
- Spoon your favorite jam over the batter, spreading it gently to cover as much as possible without disturbing the base layer.
- Dollop the remaining peanut butter batter over the jam layer. Use a spatula to spread it out gently, ensuring some of the jam is still visible.
- If using, sprinkle the coarsely chopped salted peanuts on top of the batter for added texture and crunch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bars cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar before slicing into squares.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, freeze in a single layer for up to 3 months.
- Thaw frozen bars in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
