PB and Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

If you love the comforting flavors of a childhood favorite, the PB and Jelly Banana Bread Recipe brings those tastes together in one irresistible loaf. Imagine moist banana bread swirled with creamy peanut butter and sweet jelly, creating a perfect harmony of textures and flavors that feels like a warm hug in every bite. This recipe is a fun twist on the classic banana bread, packing a nostalgic punch while delivering a delightful, crowd-pleasing treat you’ll want to bake again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple pantry staples that come together to create a loaf bursting with flavor and perfect texture. Each one plays a key role, from the ripe bananas that bring moisture and sweetness to the peanut butter and jelly that add a delightful creamy and fruity swirl.

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The base for the bread, providing structure and a tender crumb.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise beautifully and keeps it light.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moistness to the batter.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread without overpowering the natural banana flavor.
• 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the bread’s structure.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings a warm, inviting aroma and depth to the flavor.
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed: The star of the show, packed with natural sweetness and moisture.
• ½ cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky): Adds a nutty richness that complements the banana perfectly.
• ½ cup grape jelly (or your favorite flavor): Brings that classic jelly sweetness and a beautifully glossy swirl.
• ¼ cup chopped peanuts (optional, for topping): Provides a satisfying crunch and enhances the peanut flavor.

How to Make PB and Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. This ensures even distribution of the rising agent so your bread bakes perfectly fluffy without any salty clumps.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use a mixer or vigorous whisking to cream the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. This step is crucial for a tender, airy crumb.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated. Follow up with the vanilla extract to infuse the batter with a fragrant warmth that ties all the flavors together.

Step 4: Incorporate Bananas

Fold in the mashed bananas gently until just combined. Their natural sweetness and moisture are what make this banana bread so delectably soft and flavorful.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring carefully until just combined. Overmixing here can lead to a dense loaf, so patience pays off.

Step 6: Prepare PB and Jelly Mixture

In a small bowl, stir together the peanut butter and jelly to create a luscious swirl that will bring that signature flavor to the bread.

Step 7: Layer and Swirl Batter and PB&J

Pour half of the banana bread batter into a greased and floured 9×5-inch loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Spoon half of the peanut butter and jelly mixture over the batter and use a knife or skewer to swirl it beautifully through the batter.

Step 8: Repeat Layers

Add the remaining batter on top, spreading evenly again. Spoon the rest of the peanut butter and jelly mixture over and swirl once more to create gorgeous marbled patterns throughout the loaf.

Step 9: Add Optional Topping

Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top if you want some extra crunch and to boost that peanut flavor. This little touch makes the bread even more tempting.

Step 10: Bake the PB and Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaf for 50 to 60 minutes until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. This baking time gives you that perfectly cooked interior and slightly crisp crust.

Step 11: Cool and Serve

After baking, let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step lets the flavors settle and the loaf finish setting up so you get the best texture when slicing.

How to Serve PB and Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

Garnishes

Serving your PB and Jelly Banana Bread with a dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of honey adds a touch of elegance and extra sweetness. Fresh banana slices or a dollop of creamy peanut butter can also make perfect garnishes that invite you to dig in.

Side Dishes

This banana bread is fabulous on its own but pairs well with a simple cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or an afternoon snack. For a heartier treat, try it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla yogurt to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

To take your presentation up a notch, slice the bread thick and offer it warm, topped with a smear of peanut butter or jelly. You can also toast slices lightly and serve with a swirl of whipped cream or sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture and indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover PB and Jelly Banana Bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it moist and fresh. Stored at room temperature, it stays good for up to three days, though refrigeration can extend its lifespan slightly.

Freezing

This banana bread freezes beautifully. Wrap the loaf or individual slices securely in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to three months and thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

To bring your PB and Jelly Banana Bread back to life, simply warm slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds or toast them lightly. This revives the flavors and softens the bread for a fresh-baked feeling.

FAQs

Can I use chunky peanut butter for this PB and Jelly Banana Bread Recipe?

Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter adds delightful texture and a bit of crunch that complements the softness of the banana bread very well.

What type of jelly works best in the recipe?

Grape jelly is classic and pairs beautifully with peanut butter, but feel free to experiment with strawberry, raspberry, or even mixed berry jellies to customize the flavor.

Can I substitute the butter with oil?

You can substitute butter with an equal amount of vegetable oil to keep the bread moist, but butter adds richness and flavor you don’t want to miss.

How ripe should the bananas be?

For the best flavor and natural sweetness, use bananas that are very ripe, with lots of brown spots on the peel. The softer they are, the better they mash and blend into the batter.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing and then eating later?

Yes, this PB and Jelly Banana Bread Recipe freezes wonderfully and can be thawed without losing its delicious taste and texture. Just wrap it airtight before freezing.

Final Thoughts

Baking this PB and Jelly Banana Bread Recipe feels like wrapping yourself in a cozy, nostalgic moment. It’s a simple, comforting treat that combines two beloved flavors with the hearty goodness of banana bread. If you haven’t tried it yet, I encourage you to give this recipe a go—it’s truly a slice of joy that’s perfect for any time of day.

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