Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that brings back fond memories, this Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe is just what you need. It combines the nostalgic flavors of peanut butter and jelly with the beloved comfort of banana bread. Each slice is a delightful blend of rich peanut butter and fruity swirls, making it perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even a sweet dessert. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet afternoon at home or hosting a family gathering, this recipe will surely spread smiles all around.

What I love most about this banana bread is how easy it is to whip up. You can have it ready in just over an hour! Plus, with simple ingredients and minimal mess, it’s a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something special without too much fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the classic flavors in every bite.
• Perfectly moist: The bananas ensure the bread stays deliciously moist and tender.
• Customizable: Add your favorite nuts or swap out the jelly flavor to suit your taste.
• Great for sharing: Slice it up and share with friends or save some for later!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread. You probably have most of them on hand already!

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! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add some crunch: Toss in 1/2 cup chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added texture.
• Switch up the sweetness: Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a natural sweetener.
• Try different spreads: Experiment with almond butter or sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
• Mix in chocolate chips: Add 1/2 cup chocolate chips for an indulgent twist that everyone will love.

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 nice and smooth. This step is crucial because it gives our bread its delightful moisture! Stir in the creamy 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 into your wet mixture until just combined. Remember not to overmix; we want our bread light and fluffy!

Step 2: Layer the Batter and Jelly

Pour half of your banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Now comes the fun part—dollop teaspoons of jelly over this layer in several spots! Take a butter knife or toothpick and gently swirl the jelly through the batter; this creates those beautiful marbled streaks that will make each slice so appealing.

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 jelly swirl process again by dolloping more jelly on top. This layering ensures that every bite has that lovely burst of fruity flavor!

Step 4: Bake the Bread

Now it’s time to bake! Place your loaf pan in that preheated oven and let it work its magic for about 50-60 minutes. Keep an eye on it—when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, you know it’s done! Allow your delicious creation to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread! It’s sure to become a favorite in no time!

Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

Baking this delightful banana bread is a breeze, and with a few helpful tips, you can ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter your bread will be. Overripe bananas not only add more flavor but also contribute to a moist texture.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. This helps keep your banana bread light and fluffy, avoiding a dense texture.

• Experiment with Jelly Flavors: While grape and strawberry are classic choices, feel free to use any jelly or jam you love—like raspberry or apricot—to create unique flavor combinations in your bread.

• Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary in temperature. Start checking your bread around the 50-minute mark by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, it’s time to take it out!

• Cool Completely Before Slicing: Allowing your banana bread to cool completely ensures that it slices easily without crumbling. This patience pays off when serving!

How to Serve Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

This peanut butter and jelly banana bread makes for a delightful treat any time of day! Whether you’re enjoying it as a breakfast option, an afternoon snack, or a dessert, there are plenty of ways to present this delicious loaf.

Garnishes

• Sliced Fresh Fruit: Serve with slices of fresh fruit like bananas or strawberries for added freshness and nutrition.
• Nut Butter Drizzle: A light drizzle of additional peanut butter on top adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the jelly beautifully.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top before baking or as a garnish for added crunch.

Side Dishes

• Greek Yogurt: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt on the side adds creaminess and a touch of tanginess that balances the sweetness of the banana bread.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can provide a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the bread.
• Smoothies: Pairing this dish with a smoothie—like a berry blend—makes for a nutritious and satisfying breakfast or snack.
• Coffee or Tea: Enjoying slices with your favorite hot beverage enhances the experience, making each bite even more comforting.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread will surely impress family and friends alike. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread is perfect for meal prep! It stays fresh and delicious, making it an excellent choice for busy days when you need a quick snack or breakfast option.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• If you prefer, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap for easy grab-and-go snacks.

Freezing

• Wrap the entire loaf or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label the bag with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy.

Reheating

• To reheat individual slices, pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• For a crispy crust, reheat slices in the toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

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

Absolutely! Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter can be great alternatives. Just ensure they have a similar consistency to maintain the bread’s texture.

How do I know when my Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread is done baking?

The banana bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Keep an eye on it towards the end of baking time!

Can I add chocolate chips to my Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe?

Yes! Adding chocolate chips is a fantastic way to elevate this recipe. Fold them into the batter before pouring it into your loaf pan for added sweetness and flavor.

What types of jelly work best in this Banana Bread Recipe?

You can use any jelly or jam that you love! Grape and strawberry are classic choices, but feel free to experiment with raspberry, blueberry, or even peach for a unique twist.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking this Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread! It’s such a comforting treat that brings back fond memories while providing a deliciously moist texture. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh from the oven or saving some for later, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!