Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on a classic favorite, this Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe is just the thing! Imagine the comforting aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through your kitchen, with rich peanut butter and sweet jelly swirling together to create a taste that’s both nostalgic and exciting. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick dessert or for family gatherings where everyone will want a slice (or two!).

Whether enjoyed as a snack, breakfast treat, or dessert, this banana bread brings joy to any occasion. It’s simple to make, and I guarantee it’ll become a beloved staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious bread in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the blend of flavors in each moist slice.
• Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert—this bread fits any meal!
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake it on the weekend and enjoy slices throughout the week; it stays fresh and tasty.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of peanut butter and jelly offers a burst of sweetness that makes each bite memorable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe calls for simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Get ready to make something truly special!

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! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Change the nut butter: Swap out peanut butter for almond or cashew butter for a different flavor profile.
• Add mix-ins: Throw in some chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture and sweetness.
• Try different jams: Experiment with various fruit jams like raspberry or blueberry for unique twists.
• Make it healthier: Substitute half of the sugar with honey or maple syrup to cut down on refined sugar.

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 key because ripe bananas bring out sweetness and moisture in the bread. Next, 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 this dry mixture into your wet ingredients—mix just until everything is combined. Over-mixing can lead to dense bread, so be gentle!

Step 2: Layer the Batter and Jelly

Now comes the fun part! Pour half of your banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Grab your jelly—dollop teaspoons over the batter in several spots. Using the tip of a butter knife or toothpick, swirl through gently. This creates beautiful streaks without blending completely; we want those lovely marbled effects!

Step 3: Add the Second Layer

Next up, pour the remaining batter over your jelly layer and smooth it out with a spatula. Repeat that jelly-dolloping process on top again! Swirl gently once more to create even more marbled patterns throughout.

Step 4: Bake the Bread

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

And there you have it—your very own Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread! Enjoy every last slice!

Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

Baking is all about experimentation and fun, so here are some tips to help you create the best peanut butter and jelly banana bread possible!

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

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

• Choose your jelly wisely: While grape and strawberry are classic choices, feel free to experiment with different flavors like raspberry or blackberry. Each will give a unique twist to your bread.

• Let it cool properly: Allowing the bread to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack helps maintain its shape and prevents it from becoming soggy.

• Store correctly: To keep your banana bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It can last up to a week at room temperature or in the fridge for longer freshness.

How to Serve Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

This delightful banana bread can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a versatile treat for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Here are some creative ideas on how to present this dish beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top of each slice for an added crunch that complements the creamy peanut butter.
• Fresh fruit slices: Serve with slices of fresh banana or strawberries on the side to enhance the fruity flavor and add a pop of color.
• Drizzle of honey: A light drizzle of honey over each slice can elevate the sweetness and add a lovely shine.

Side Dishes

• Yogurt parfait: A bowl of yogurt layered with granola and fresh berries makes a refreshing side that balances the richness of the banana bread.
• Smoothie: Pair with a fruity smoothie made from bananas, spinach, and almond milk for a nutritious breakfast option that complements the flavors.
• Fruit salad: A simple fruit salad offers a refreshing contrast that brightens up your meal while providing extra nutrients.
• Coffee or tea: Enjoy your peanut butter & jelly banana bread with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea for a cozy afternoon snack or breakfast treat.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy this delicious Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, or even freeze it for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep your delicious banana bread fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the banana bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the banana bread before freezing for easy portions.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, simply remove a slice from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• For a warm treat, pop it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast it until heated through.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

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

Absolutely! Almond butter or sunflower seed butter can be excellent alternatives if you want to switch things up while still enjoying that delightful nutty flavor.

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

The best way to check if your banana bread is done is by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready!

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this recipe?

Yes, feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips for an extra treat!

What type of jelly works best with this recipe?

You can use any jelly or jam that you love! Grape and strawberry are popular choices, but feel free to experiment with raspberry or apricot too.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe as much as I do! It’s a delightful blend of flavors that will surely remind you of childhood snacks while being a comforting treat any time of day. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!