Imagine the comfort of a classic PB&J sandwich, but in an irresistibly tender, sliceable loaf you can enjoy for breakfast, snack time, or dessert—welcome to the wonderful world of Peanut Butter Jelly Bread! This crowd-pleasing quick bread swirls together creamy peanut butter and fruity jelly in every bite, filling your kitchen with the most nostalgic, inviting aroma. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it disappears, and just how endlessly customizable Peanut Butter Jelly Bread can be.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Peanut Butter Jelly Bread lies in its simplicity—every ingredient adds something special, from flavor to moisture to that dreamy swirl. Gather up these pantry staples and get ready for a loaf that tastes like pure joy.
- All-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation for your loaf, creating that satisfyingly tender crumb.
- Baking powder: This helps your bread rise tall and light with just the right lift.
- Salt: A pinch is all it takes to balance out the sweetness and boost all the flavors.
- Granulated sugar: It sweetens the bread just enough to complement the peanut butter and jelly magic.
- Creamy peanut butter: The star of the show, giving richness, nutty depth, and lovable nostalgia.
- Large eggs: These bind everything together and lend structure for perfect slicing.
- Milk: Keeps the bread moist and tender from the first bite to the last.
- Vegetable oil: Adds subtle richness and helps the loaf stay soft for days.
- Vanilla extract: A splash adds sweet, aromatic warmth that brings all the flavors together.
- Fruit jam or jelly: Swirl in your favorite (grape or strawberry are classic!) for fruity ribbons in every slice.
- Chopped peanuts (optional): Sprinkle on top for an extra pop of crunch and peanutty flavor.
How to Make Peanut Butter Jelly Bread
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. While that’s heating up, grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan—this step is key for easy release after baking, and nobody wants to lose a single swirl to the pan!
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Combining the dry ingredients first ensures even distribution, so your Peanut Butter Jelly Bread bakes up light and perfectly textured.
Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the creamy peanut butter, eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and beautifully creamy. Don’t worry if it looks thick at first—the eggs and milk will loosen up the peanut butter as you go.
Step 4: Combine and Build the Batter
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and gently stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps your loaf as tender as possible. It should look thick, but evenly mixed with no visible streaks of flour.
Step 5: Swirl in the Jelly
Pour half of the batter into your prepared pan, then dollop half of the jam or jelly in spoonfuls over the batter. Using a butter knife, gently swirl the jam throughout. Repeat with the remaining batter and the rest of your jelly, swirling again for gorgeous ribbons. If you like a little crunch, now’s the time to sprinkle those chopped peanuts on top!
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide your loaf into the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (a few jammy streaks are just fine). Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling completely.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Jelly Bread
Garnishes
For the ultimate finishing touch, try a drizzle of extra warm jelly, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a scattering of chopped peanuts. Each of these simple garnishes adds a little sparkle and crunch to your Peanut Butter Jelly Bread, letting everyone know they’re in for something special.
Side Dishes
Pair your Peanut Butter Jelly Bread with cold glasses of milk or hot coffee for classic comfort. For a brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream to turn snack-time into a celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the loaf and toast it lightly, then slather with extra peanut butter or jam for over-the-top indulgence. Peanut Butter Jelly Bread also makes a whimsical base for decadent French toast—imagine those swirls caramelized and golden! For fun, try cutting thick slices into cubes and threading them onto skewers with fresh berries for a kid-friendly treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Peanut Butter Jelly Bread fresh, store cooled slices in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays moist and delicious for up to three days—expect any leftovers to vanish quickly!
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap the whole loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Peanut Butter Jelly Bread freezes beautifully for up to two months. Just let it thaw at room temperature for easy snacking anytime.
Reheating
Warm up a slice in the toaster or microwave for that just-baked flavor and soft, melty texture—this brings the fruity jam back to life and makes the peanut butter extra aromatic.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds wonderful texture and extra nuttiness. Go for it if you enjoy a bit of peanut crunch in your Peanut Butter Jelly Bread.
What types of jelly or jam work best?
Classic grape and strawberry are always winners, but you can use any flavor you love—raspberry, apricot, or even a mixed berry jam all create beautiful, fruity swirls.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes! Swap in your favorite measure-for-measure gluten-free flour blend. The bread may turn out slightly more delicate, but you’ll still get those dreamy swirls and flavors.
Do I need any special equipment?
Nothing fancy needed—just two bowls, a whisk, a spatula, and a 9×5-inch loaf pan. A butter knife will help you get those pretty jelly swirls in your Peanut Butter Jelly Bread.
Can I make muffins with this recipe instead?
Definitely! Divide the batter among lined muffin cups, swirl in the jelly, and bake at 350°F for about 20–25 minutes. PB&J muffins are perfect for lunchboxes or on-the-go snacks.
Final Thoughts
Give Peanut Butter Jelly Bread a try, and see how quickly it becomes a family favorite! The charm of sweet jammy ribbons paired with nutty, soft peanut butter bread is simply irresistible. No matter how you swirl, slice, and serve it, you’ll create something special and memorable—one delicious loaf at a time.
Print
Peanut Butter Jelly Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (8 slices)
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the deliciousness of this Peanut Butter Jelly Bread, a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of peanut butter and jelly in a moist, flavorful loaf.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Additional:
- 1/2 cup fruit jam or jelly (such as grape or strawberry)
- Optional: chopped peanuts for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Prepare the batter: In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients. In another bowl, mix the wet ingredients. Combine wet and dry ingredients, then pour half the batter into the pan.
- Add jelly: Spoon half of the jelly over the batter, swirl with a knife, then add remaining batter and repeat the swirling with the rest of the jelly. Top with chopped peanuts if desired.
- Bake: Bake for 50–60 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Experiment with different jam flavors for variety.
- This bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for longer shelf life.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
