Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a way to brighten up your day, this Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe is a must-try! Combining the nostalgic flavors of peanut butter and jelly with the warm, comforting texture of banana bread, this recipe is like a hug in loaf form. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick treat or for those cozy family gatherings when you want to share something special.

What makes this banana bread truly delightful is the lovely jelly swirl that adds unexpected bursts of fruity sweetness in every bite. Whether you’re enjoying it as a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack, each slice brings back fond memories and creates new ones with every bake.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the classic peanut butter and jelly combo. It’s a great way to sneak in some fruit!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This banana bread keeps well for several days, making it perfect for meal prep or an easy grab-and-go breakfast.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of ripe bananas and creamy peanut butter creates a moist, flavorful loaf that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for this delightful Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe. You’ll find everything you need right in your pantry!

For the Bread:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Jelly Swirl:

• 1/4 cup jelly or jam (grape, strawberry, or your favorite flavor)

Variations

This Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs.

• Try Different Nut Butters: Swap out peanut butter for almond or cashew butter for a unique twist.
• Add Nuts or Seeds: Toss in some chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds for added crunch and nutrition.
• Use Honey Instead of Sugar: For a healthier option, replace sugar with honey or maple syrup.
• Experiment with Flavors: Try using different flavors of jelly or jam—raspberry or peach would be delicious!

How to Make Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth; this step not only gives sweetness but also provides moisture to the bread. Stir in the peanut butter, sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg until everything is well combined. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your wet mixture; mix just until combined to keep your bread tender.

Step 2: Layer the Batter and Jelly

Pour half of your banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spread it evenly across the bottom. Now comes the fun part! Dollop teaspoons of jelly over the batter in several spots—this will create those beautiful swirls later on. Using a butter knife or toothpick, gently swirl the jelly through the batter without fully blending it; you want those tasty streaks!

Step 3: Add the Second Layer

Next, pour the remaining batter over your jelly layer and smooth it out with a spatula. Repeat that delightful dolloping process by adding more jelly on top before gently swirling again. This second layer enhances both flavor and visual appeal!

Step 4: Bake the Bread

Now it’s time to bake! Place your loaf pan in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 50-60 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow your bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy every slice!

Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

Making banana bread can be a delightful experience, especially when you add your own personal touch to it. Here are some tips to ensure your peanut butter and jelly banana bread turns out perfect every time!

• Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for the best results.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, while gentle folding keeps it light and fluffy.
• Experiment with Jellies: Feel free to try different flavors of jelly or jam! Each variety adds a unique twist to the bread, making it even more fun to bake and eat.
• Cool Completely Before Slicing: Allow the bread to cool fully on a wire rack before slicing. This helps set the texture and prevents it from crumbling.
• Store Properly: To keep your banana bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

How to Serve Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

This peanut butter and jelly banana bread is not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some creative ideas on how to present this delightful treat:

Garnishes

• Sliced Bananas: Add fresh banana slices on top of each slice for a pop of color and extra flavor.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle chopped peanuts or walnuts on top for added crunch and texture.
• Drizzle of Honey: A light drizzle of honey can enhance sweetness and give your bread a lovely shine.

Side Dishes

• Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt served alongside adds protein and a tangy contrast that complements the sweetness of the bread.
• Fresh Berries: A side of mixed berries (like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries) provides freshness and acidity that balances the richness of the banana bread.
• Nut Butter Spread: Serve with additional peanut butter or almond butter on the side for those who want an extra nutty kick!
• Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea makes for a cozy pairing that can enhance your snack time experience while enjoying this delightful bread.

Enjoy making this Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe! Whether as a snack, dessert, or breakfast treat, it’s sure to bring back fond memories while delighting your taste buds.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious slices throughout the week. Whether you’re looking for an easy breakfast option or a sweet snack, this bread stores beautifully!

Storing Leftovers

• Wrap the banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, place it in an airtight container.

Freezing

• Allow the banana bread to cool completely before freezing.
• Slice the bread into individual portions for easy thawing.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen slices overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.
• Reheat in a toaster or microwave until warm, about 15-20 seconds in the microwave works well.
• Enjoy warm for a cozy treat!

FAQs

Here are some common questions readers might have about this recipe.

Can I use different types of jelly for the Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors of jelly or jam, such as raspberry, blackberry, or even apple. Each will add its unique twist to this delightful banana bread.

How should I store leftover Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread?

Wrap your leftover banana bread tightly and store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices!

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy in this recipe?

Yes! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture to your banana bread. Just keep in mind that it may alter the smoothness of the batter slightly.

Is this Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread suitable for breakfast?

Definitely! This banana bread is not only delicious but also provides a good balance of carbohydrates and protein, making it a satisfying breakfast option.

Final Thoughts

This Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe is truly special—bringing together nostalgic flavors that warm your heart with every bite! I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do. It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends or simply savoring as a comforting treat on your own. Happy baking, and don’t forget to relish those delicious moments!