PB and Jelly Banana Bread: The Ultimate Recipe Guide Recipe

If you love the classic combo of peanut butter and jelly and adore moist, flavorful banana bread, then you are in for a real treat with the PB and Jelly Banana Bread: The Ultimate Recipe Guide Recipe. This recipe takes the comforting flavors you know and love and elevates them with irresistible swirls of peanut butter and jelly right inside a tender, perfectly baked banana bread. The result is a nostalgic, gooey, and utterly satisfying loaf that’s ideal for breakfast, snacks, or anytime you crave something sweet and wholesome.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, with everyday ingredients that pack all the flavor and texture you expect from a perfect banana bread. Each component plays a starring role, from the ripe bananas providing natural sweetness and moisture, to the peanut butter and jelly creating those luscious layers of flavor you won’t be able to resist.

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives the bread structure and a soft crumb.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise nicely and stay light.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and tenderness.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread just right without overpowering.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to a fluffy texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed: The star ingredient providing natural sweetness and moisture.
• ½ cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky): Gives that signature nutty flavor and smooth texture.
• ½ cup grape jelly (or your favorite flavor): Offers an irresistible fruity sweetness and gooey surprise.
• ¼ cup chopped peanuts (optional, for topping): Adds crunch and a lovely garnish.

How to Make PB and Jelly Banana Bread: The Ultimate Recipe Guide Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. This step ensures that the leavening and seasoning are evenly distributed, which is key for the best texture later.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until they’re light and fluffy—this usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. This aerates the mixture and lays the groundwork for a tender, moist loaf.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the overall flavor profile with its sweet, aromatic notes.

Step 4: Incorporate Bananas

Fold in the mashed ripe bananas until just combined. The bananas bring moisture and natural sweetness that’s integral to this loaf’s luscious texture.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or the bread could become dense instead of light and fluffy.

Step 6: Prepare PB&J Swirl

In a small bowl, mix together the peanut butter and jelly. This combo will create pockets of gooey, sweet, nutty goodness throughout the bread.

Step 7: Layer and Swirl

Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan. Pour half of the banana bread batter into the pan and spread evenly. Spoon half of the peanut butter and jelly mixture on top, then use a knife or skewer to swirl it through the batter gently. This swirling gives the bread that signature marbled effect.

Step 8: Repeat Layers

Pour the remaining batter over the first layer, spreading it out evenly. Spoon the remaining peanut butter and jelly mixture on top and swirl again. This double-layer swirl ensures every bite is packed with PB&J flavor.

Step 9: Add Topping (Optional)

If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle the chopped peanuts over the top. This adds a delightful texture contrast that complements the soft bread and gooey swirls below.

Step 10: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the bread for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 11: Cool

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling helps the flavors meld and the bread to set perfectly.

How to Serve PB and Jelly Banana Bread: The Ultimate Recipe Guide Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a little something extra on top can really elevate your slice. Consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey for a shine and subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the peanut butter and jelly swirls.

Side Dishes

This banana bread shines on its own, but if you want to round out your snack or breakfast, pair it with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or a cup of Greek yogurt. The freshness and creaminess balance the richness of the PB and Jelly Banana Bread: The Ultimate Recipe Guide Recipe beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the bread thick and toast it lightly. Then spread an extra layer of peanut butter or jelly on top before serving. Or, cut it into cubes and create bread pudding for a deliciously inventive way to enjoy those precious flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftover banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it at room temperature. It will stay moist and delicious for up to 3 days—perfect for grabbing a quick breakfast or snack.

Freezing

If you want to keep the PB and Jelly Banana Bread: The Ultimate Recipe Guide Recipe longer, slice it beforehand and freeze the slices in an airtight container or bag. They freeze beautifully and can be thawed quickly at room temperature or popped into the toaster.

Reheating

To enjoy your banana bread warm, reheat slices in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds. This brings back that fresh-from-the-oven softness and gooey peanut butter and jelly swirls that make it so crave-worthy.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?

Absolutely! Natural peanut butter works well and brings a rich, authentic flavor. Just make sure it’s well stirred, as natural peanut butter tends to separate.

What kind of jelly works best in this banana bread?

You can use any jelly or jam you love. Grape jelly is classic, but strawberry, raspberry, or even apricot add a delicious twist to the flavor profile.

Can I substitute ingredients to make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Use flax eggs or another egg substitute, dairy-free butter, and ensure your peanut butter and jelly don’t contain animal products. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be tasty.

How ripe should my bananas be?

The riper, the better! Bananas with lots of brown spots or those that are almost black are perfect as they are sweeter and mash easily into the batter.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking, you can enjoy this delicious loaf while keeping it gluten-free. Just be sure your blend includes xanthan gum or another binder.

Final Thoughts

This PB and Jelly Banana Bread: The Ultimate Recipe Guide Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite ways to enjoy banana bread with a nostalgic twist. It’s effortless to make, beautifully moist, and packed with comforting flavors that hit every note—sweet, nutty, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you’re baking for breakfast, a midday treat, or to impress friends, this loaf is bound to delight. Give it a try and see how this perfect union of peanut butter, jelly, and banana bread can brighten your day!

Print