Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread: Recipe

Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread: is the ultimate nostalgic treat with a delightfully modern twist. Imagine everything you adore about a PB&J sandwich and classic banana bread blended into one show-stopping loaf! Every slice offers a soft, moist crumb studded with creamy peanut butter flavor, sweet ripe bananas, and ribbons of jammy goodness swirled throughout. Whether you’re baking for Sunday brunch, a lunchbox surprise, or just want to turn everyday ingredients into something magical, this bread transforms the simple into the unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the joys of Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread: is how it turns pantry staples into something truly special. Each ingredient has a job to do, and together they create the ultimate comfort food loaf: moist, rich, sweet, and memorable in every bite.

• Bananas: The riper, the better, since their sweetness and moisture make the loaf tender and rich in flavor.
• Creamy peanut butter: Adds depth, nuttiness, and a creamy texture that balances the bananas and jelly.
• Sugar: A touch of sweetness that brings out the natural banana and enhances the jammy swirl.
• Melted butter: Brings richness to the batter, ensuring every slice is deliciously soft.
• Vanilla extract: Just a splash elevates the warm, toasty undertones of the bread.
• Large egg: Binds the loaf together and gives it structure for the perfect crumb.
• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the recipe, lending stability without making the bread too dense.
• Baking soda: A must for a fluffy rise and a tender, cakey texture.
• Salt: Balances and heightens every sweet and nutty note in the loaf.
• Jelly or jam (your favorite flavor): Whether you swirl in grape, strawberry, or raspberry, the fruity ribbons add pops of color and bright flavor.

How to Make Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread:

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan so nothing sticks. In a roomy bowl, mash your bananas until they’re smooth and almost creamy. Add the peanut butter, sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and the egg, then mix everything until you have a glossy, unified batter. In a separate bowl, whisk together your flour, baking soda, and salt. Fold the dry ingredients gently into the wet mixture, just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can make your loaf dense, so take it easy.

Step 2: Layer the Batter and Jelly

Now comes the magic: Pour half your banana bread batter into the prepared pan and spread it out evenly. Spoon small dollops of your chosen jelly or jam over the top, spacing them out for maximum swirl effect. Using a butter knife or toothpick, swirl the jelly through the batter, going back and forth a few times. Don’t overdo it—you want dramatic streaks, not a purple (or red!) mess.

Step 3: Add the Second Layer

Pour the rest of the batter over the first, carefully smoothing it out. Repeat with more jelly, dolloping and swirling just like before. Aim for beautiful, marbled patterns that peek out from the golden batter—you’ll thank yourself when you slice into it later!

Step 4: Bake the Bread

Slide your pan into the center of the oven and bake for 50–60 minutes. Keep an eye on it after the 50-minute mark; you’re looking for a golden top and a toothpick that comes out with just a few crumbs, no wet spots. Let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully lift it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This patience is worth it: the flavors settle and the loaf slices beautifully.

How to Serve Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread:

Garnishes

For an extra-special touch, sprinkle the top of your Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread: with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of melted peanut butter, or even a few chopped peanuts for crunch. You can also spread a thin layer of extra jam or a pat of butter on warm slices for pure indulgence.

Side Dishes

This bread is lovely on its own, but try serving it beside a bowl of creamy Greek yogurt, a fresh fruit salad, or even scrambled eggs for a full breakfast. For an afternoon pick-me-up, add a mug of coffee, chai, or a cold glass of milk—each sip brings out the cozy flavors tucked into every bite.

Creative Ways to Present

Make Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread: the star of your brunch board! Slice and arrange on a platter with small bowls of extra jam and nut butters, or cut thick slices into cubes for a playful dessert fondue. You can even toast slices and turn them into next-level sandwiches with fresh strawberries, a schmear of cream cheese, or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After baking, let your Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread: cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It’ll stay moist and delicious at room temperature for up to three days—just be sure to keep it sealed so it doesn’t dry out.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the loaf (whole or sliced) in a double layer of plastic wrap, then slip it into a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature or pop a slice into the toaster for a quick treat—this bread freezes wonderfully, keeping its flavor and swirled beauty intact.

Reheating

If you crave that fresh-baked warmth, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds, or toast them lightly for crisp edges and gooey pockets of jam. It’s a fast way to make Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread: taste like it just came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter adds little bits of nutty crunch throughout the loaf, which can be a wonderful surprise. Just make sure to stir it well into the batter for even distribution.

What kind of jelly works best?

Any jelly or jam you love will work deliciously—grape is a classic, but strawberry, raspberry, or even blueberry will create beautiful color and flavor contrasts. Homemade jam also gives a rustic and personal touch.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend (one that is a cup-for-cup substitute works best). Just be sure to check your baking soda and peanut butter for hidden gluten if serving to someone with allergies.

How ripe should the bananas be?

The best bananas for Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread: are those with skins that are deeply speckled or nearly black. The riper the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be!

Can I add chocolate chips or nuts?

Of course! Feel free to stir in a handful of mini chocolate chips, walnuts, or pecans before layering the batter. They give extra texture and complexity, making each bite more exciting.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like sharing a slice of Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread: with friends or family. This recipe brings together comfort and fun, filling your kitchen with tempting aromas and your table with smiles. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes a cherished favorite in your home, too!

Print