Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that brings back childhood memories, you’re in for a delight with these Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars! This recipe effortlessly combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the sweet tang of strawberry jam, resulting in a chewy dessert that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight, a bake sale, or a family gathering, these bars fit right in and bring smiles to everyone’s faces.

What makes this recipe special is not just its nostalgic flavor but also how easy it is to whip up. You’ll find that the ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it perfect for both kids and adults alike. You might even find yourself making them on repeat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious bars baking in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves peanut butter and jelly! These bars are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake a batch in advance and have a tasty treat ready for snacks or lunchboxes throughout the week.
• Deliciously Chewy: The combination of peanut butter and strawberry jam creates a delightful texture that keeps you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make these delicious Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars. You probably have many of them on hand already!

For the Base

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 cups creamy peanut butter

For the Topping

• 3 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 cups strawberry jam

Variations

The beauty of these Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars is their flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients.

• Change the Jam: Swap out strawberry jam for your favorite flavor like raspberry or blueberry for a twist.
• Add Some Crunch: Mix in some chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips to the dough for added texture.
• Make It Healthier: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a nutritious boost.
• Go Nut-Free: Substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter if you’re catering to nut allergies.

How to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures your bars will bake evenly. While the oven heats up, line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang. This will make it easy to lift out your bars later on.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together your softened butter, creamy peanut butter, and sugar until it’s light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes. This step adds air into the mixture, which helps create that lovely chewy texture we all love!

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add in your eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the pure vanilla extract. These ingredients not only enhance flavor but also help bind everything together beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together your flour and baking powder. Gradually mix this dry mixture into your wet ingredients until a dough forms. This is where patience pays off—mix just enough so everything combines without overworking it.

Step 5: Form the Base Layer

Press about two-thirds of the dough evenly into your prepared baking dish to form the base layer. It should be smooth but doesn’t need to be perfect; remember, it’s all going to taste delicious!

Step 6: Spread the Jam

Now it’s time for that sweet strawberry jam! Spread it evenly over the base layer, leaving about an inch around the edges clear. This will prevent any jam from burning while baking.

Step 7: Crumble Remaining Dough

Crumble the remaining dough over that luscious jam layer. This creates a beautiful texture on top—it looks delicious even before you bake it!

Step 8: Bake Those Bars!

Place your baking dish in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes until the top is light golden brown. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly as they bake!

Step 9: Cool and Cut

Once baked, allow them to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using that handy parchment overhang. Cut into bars, serve, and enjoy every bite of nostalgia!

These Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars are bound to become your new favorite dessert! Whether served at home or shared with friends, they are sure to bring joy wherever they go.

Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

Baking these delicious Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars can be a delightful experience, especially with a few helpful tips to ensure perfect results every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter and eggs to room temperature helps create a smooth batter, ensuring even mixing and a fluffy texture in your bars.
• Choose high-quality peanut butter: Opt for natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils. This not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to a better texture in your bars.
• Don’t skip the parchment paper: Lining your baking dish with parchment paper makes it easy to lift the bars out once they are cooled. This prevents sticking and allows for clean cuts.
• Cool completely before slicing: Allowing the bars to cool fully ensures they set properly, making them easier to cut into neat squares without crumbling.
• Experiment with flavors: While strawberry jam is classic, feel free to try other flavors like raspberry or blueberry. This can give a fun twist to your Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars!

How to Serve Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

These Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars are not only scrumptious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some fun ideas to make them even more special!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness on top, making the bars visually appealing.
• Chopped nuts: Adding some crushed peanuts or walnuts on top gives an additional crunch that complements the creamy texture of the bars beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A bright mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the bars while adding vibrant colors to your presentation.
• Vanilla coconut yogurt: The creaminess of yogurt paired with a hint of vanilla balances out the sweetness in the bars, creating a delightful pairing for dessert lovers.
• Ice cream: A scoop of vanilla or dairy-free ice cream served alongside warm bars offers a comforting cold-and-warm contrast that is truly irresistible.
• Milk or plant-based milk: A glass of cold milk (or almond/coconut milk) makes for a classic companion, enhancing that nostalgic vibe reminiscent of childhood snack time!

With these serving suggestions, you’ll have no trouble impressing your family and friends with your homemade Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them in advance and store them for future snacking or gatherings. Here’s how to keep them fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week for a chilled treat.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking if stacking.

Freezing

• Cut the bars into individual portions before freezing for easy grab-and-go snacks.
• Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy!

Reheating

• For a warm treat, microwave a bar on low power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars.

Can I use other types of jam instead of strawberry?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite jam, such as raspberry, blueberry, or grape. Each variation brings its unique flavor to the bars.

How long do Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars last?

When stored properly, Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars can last up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. If frozen, they can be enjoyed for up to 3 months!

Can I make these Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures equally. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious bars!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars! They’re not just delicious; they’re also a nostalgic treat that brings back fond memories. Whether you’re enjoying them at home or sharing them with friends, I’m sure they’ll be a hit. Happy baking!