Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars are a delightful treat that brings together creamy peanut butter and sweet strawberry jam in a chewy, nostalgic dessert. They are perfect for snacks, bake sales, or family gatherings. These bars offer a comforting twist on the classic sandwich that everyone loves.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Cream Butter and Peanut Butter
• Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
• Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
• Step 5: Press Base Layer
• Step 6: Spread Strawberry Jam
• Step 7: Crumble Remaining Dough
• Step 8: Bake
• Step 9: Cool & Cut
• How to Serve Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars
• Classic Pairings
• Creative Serving Ideas
• How to Perfect Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars
• Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars
• Reheating Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different types of jam?
• How do I know when my Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars are done?
• Can I make these bars gluten-free?
• What is the best way to cut these bars?
• How long do these Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars last?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 50 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Nostalgic Flavor: Enjoy the familiar taste of peanut butter and jelly in a new form that will evoke childhood memories.
• Versatile Treat: Great for lunchboxes, picnics, or dessert after dinner – these bars fit any occasion!
• Crowd-Pleaser: With their rich flavors and chewy texture, they are sure to impress family and friends.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out the strawberry jam for your favorite flavor to make it your own!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools. The right equipment makes all the difference when baking Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking dish: The perfect size for evenly baking your bars so they’re soft on the inside and slightly crispy on top.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort, allowing you to achieve a light and fluffy mixture quickly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, making it easy to lift out your bars after cooling.

Ingredients

For these tasty Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars, you’ll need:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 cups creamy peanut butter
• 3 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 cups strawberry jam

How to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Peanut Butter

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, and sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the large eggs, one at a time. Mix well after each addition. Then stir in the pure vanilla extract until combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually mix this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until a dough forms.

Step 5: Press Base Layer

Take about 2/3 of the dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish to create a solid base layer.

Step 6: Spread Strawberry Jam

Spread the strawberry jam evenly over the base layer you just made. Be sure to leave some space around the edges so it doesn’t overflow during baking.

Step 7: Crumble Remaining Dough

Crumble the remaining dough over the jam layer. This will give your bars a lovely textured top once baked.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes. You want them to be light golden brown on top.

Step 9: Cool & Cut

Let them cool completely in the pan. Once cool, use the parchment overhang to lift them out of the dish. Cut into bars as desired.

Enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars! Perfect for sharing or savoring all on your own.

How to Serve Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying them at home, these bars can be paired with different accompaniments to enhance their flavor.

Classic Pairings

• Milk: A cold glass of milk perfectly complements the rich flavors of peanut butter.
• Coffee: Enjoying these bars with a warm cup of coffee adds a nice balance to the sweetness.
• Fruit: Fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas offers a refreshing contrast to the chewy texture.

Creative Serving Ideas

• Ice Cream: Serve warm bars over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Yogurt: Crumble the bars over Greek yogurt for a tasty breakfast or snack.
• Nut Toppings: Sprinkle chopped nuts on top for added crunch and flavor.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

To achieve the best results with your Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars, consider these helpful tips that can elevate your baking experience.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures better mixing, leading to a smoother batter.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing can cause the bars to become tough. Mix just until combined.
• Choose high-quality jam: A good-quality strawberry jam enhances the overall flavor of the bars.
• Cool completely before cutting: Letting the bars cool helps them set properly, making cutting easier.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

When serving Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars, pairing them with side dishes can create a well-rounded treat experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness next to sweet bars.
2. Chocolate Milkshake: The creamy richness pairs beautifully with the nutty flavors of the bars.
3. Cheese Platter: Mild cheeses provide a savory contrast that balances sweetness well.
4. Trail Mix: A crunchy trail mix complements the chewy texture of the bars while adding variety.
5. Carrot Sticks and Hummus: This healthy option provides a nice crunch and balances out dessert.
6. Popcorn: Lightly salted popcorn adds a fun texture and is perfect for snacking alongside treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars can be simple, but small mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common errors to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: This can lead to a dense texture. Always use room temperature eggs and softened butter for a light, fluffy mix.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make your bars dry. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
• Skipping parchment paper: This mistake makes it hard to remove the bars from the pan. Always line your baking dish with parchment for easy lifting.
• Overbaking: Baking too long will dry out your bars. Keep an eye on them and take them out when they are just lightly golden.
• Not cooling completely: Cutting too soon can cause the bars to crumble. Allow them to cool fully in the pan before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag; they can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars for about 15-20 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick pan over low heat, cover, and warm each bar for a few minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars.

Can I use different types of jam?

Yes! You can substitute strawberry jam with other flavors like raspberry or grape, depending on your preference.

How do I know when my Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars are done?

The top should be light golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few crumbs.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for regular flour in this recipe.

What is the best way to cut these bars?

Use a sharp knife that has been warmed slightly under hot water for cleaner cuts without crumbling the edges.

How long do these Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to 5 days at room temperature or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars are not only delicious but also versatile! They make great snacks or desserts for any occasion. Feel free to customize your bars by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or using different jams. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!