Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that brings back sweet memories, this Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe is just what you need. It combines the nostalgic flavors of peanut butter and jelly with moist, delicious banana bread. Every bite is a delightful reminder of childhood lunches, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, the sight of those beautiful jelly swirls will surely bring smiles to everyone at the table!

This recipe is not only easy to make, but it also fills your home with an irresistible aroma while it bakes. Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast option or a mid-afternoon snack, this banana bread is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and simple: This recipe comes together in just about 15 minutes of prep time, so you can get it in the oven fast.
• Family-friendly: The familiar flavors of peanut butter and jelly make this a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake it ahead of time and store it for snacks or breakfast throughout the week.
• Mouthwatering flavor: The rich taste of peanut butter paired with fruity jelly creates a deliciously unique twist on traditional banana bread.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe is a breeze! You likely have most of these simple, wholesome items in your pantry already. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful treat:

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Switch up the nut butter: If you’re not a fan of peanut butter, try almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor.
• Add extra spices: A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg can add a warm depth to your banana bread.
• Incorporate nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add crunchy texture and additional flavor dimensions.
• Try different fruits: Mix in some chocolate chips or chopped berries for an extra special touch!

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 those ripe bananas until they’re smooth and creamy. This step is crucial because well-mashed bananas ensure that every slice has that lovely banana flavor. Stir in the creamy peanut butter, sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg until everything is nicely combined.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This mixing helps evenly distribute the baking soda so that your bread rises perfectly. Gradually add these dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps your banana bread tender!

Step 3: Layer the Batter and Jelly

Pour half of your banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly. Now comes the fun part—dollop teaspoons of jelly over this layer. Using the tip of a butter knife or a toothpick, swirl the jelly through without completely blending it into the batter. This creates those beautiful marbled effects we all love!

Step 4: Add the Second Layer

Carefully pour the remaining batter on top of your first layer and smooth it out with a spatula. Repeat that delightful dolloping process by adding more jelly on top, followed by another gentle swirl to achieve those gorgeous patterns.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Finally, pop your loaf pan into that preheated oven and let it bake for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow your bread to cool in its pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

And there you have it! This Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe brings comfort in every slice—a perfect way to celebrate life’s sweet moments!

Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

Creating the perfect peanut butter and jelly banana bread is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve a loaf that’s bursting with flavor and moisture.

• Use overripe bananas: The riper your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots for maximum sweetness.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined helps keep your banana bread light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, which isn’t what we want!

• Experiment with jelly flavors: While grape and strawberry are classic choices, don’t hesitate to try raspberry or even orange marmalade for a unique twist. Each flavor will add its own character to the bread.

• Let it cool completely before slicing: Allowing the bread to cool fully ensures that it sets properly, making it easier to slice without crumbling apart. Plus, it enhances the flavors!

• Store leftovers correctly: Keep any leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. This keeps it moist and delicious!

How to Serve Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

Serving peanut butter and jelly banana bread can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish for breakfast, brunch, or snack time.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Add some crunch by sprinkling chopped peanuts or walnuts on top of the bread after slicing. This adds texture and complements the peanut butter flavor beautifully.

• Fresh fruit slices: Serve with banana slices or strawberries on the side for a refreshing touch that enhances the fruity notes of the bread.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt provides a creamy contrast to the sweet bread while adding protein and probiotics.

• Smoothie: Pair your banana bread with a berry smoothie made from blended fruits and almond milk. This combination makes for a nutritious breakfast option.

• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea complements the flavors perfectly and adds a cozy element to your serving experience.

• Fruit salad: A vibrant bowl of mixed fruit can brighten up your plate while offering a refreshing balance to the richness of the banana bread.

Enjoy every slice of this delightful peanut butter & jelly banana bread! It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends or savoring all on your own.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week or even longer. Here’s how to store it properly to keep it fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Wrap the banana bread in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place it in an airtight container to prevent moisture loss.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Slice the banana bread for easy thawing later.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Label the bag with the date to keep track.

Reheating

• For individual slices, microwave on medium power for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
• Alternatively, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the whole loaf wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I use other nut butters in the Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor profile.

How can I make my Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe healthier?

You can reduce sugar by substituting half with applesauce or using a natural sweetener like maple syrup. You could also opt for whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.

What types of jelly work best in the Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe?

Grape and strawberry jellies are classic choices, but feel free to experiment with raspberry, blueberry, or any of your favorite flavors!

How do I ensure my Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread comes out moist?

Make sure your bananas are very ripe; the more spots they have, the sweeter and moister they will make your bread!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe! It’s a delightful twist on a childhood classic that brings comfort and nostalgia with every bite. Whether you enjoy it as a snack or dessert, there’s nothing quite like this warm, moist bread marbled with delicious jelly. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!