Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings back childhood memories, you’ve come to the right place! This Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe is not just a simple loaf; it’s a warm hug in bread form. Imagine the rich, creamy taste of peanut butter paired with the sweet and fruity notes of jelly, all wrapped up in moist banana bread. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family gatherings, or even as an irresistible snack.

Every bite of this banana bread is like a little trip down memory lane. The marbled jelly swirls add both beauty and bursts of flavor, making it a standout on any table. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with a pat of butter, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious banana bread in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the classic flavors; it’s an instant hit for everyone.
• Make ahead convenience: Bake it on the weekend and enjoy slices throughout the week for breakfast or snacks.
• Deliciously moist: The combination of ripe bananas and creamy peanut butter ensures each slice is rich and tender.
• Customizable: Feel free to switch up the jelly flavors or add your favorite mix-ins for a personal touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this scrumptious Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread, you’ll need some wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll gather to make 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ideas to customize your Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread:

• Try different nut butters: Swap out peanut butter for almond or cashew butter for a unique twist.
• Mix in chocolate chips: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to satisfy any sweet tooth cravings!
• Use different fruits: Incorporate chopped strawberries or blueberries into the batter for added freshness.
• Change up the jelly flavors: Experiment with raspberry, apricot, or any jam that tickles your fancy.

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, start by mashing those ripe bananas until they’re nice and smooth. This step is crucial because ripe bananas bring natural sweetness and moisture to your bread. Next, stir in the 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 mix these dry ingredients into your wet mixture until just combined—overmixing can make your bread tough!

Step 2: Layer the Batter and Jelly

Pour half of the banana bread batter into your prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly across the bottom. Now comes the fun part! Dollop teaspoons of jelly over this first layer in several spots. Using either a knife or toothpick, gently swirl the jelly through the batter—this creates those beautiful streaks without blending completely.

Step 3: Add the Second Layer

Carefully pour the remaining batter over this jelly layer and smooth it out with a spatula. Time for round two! Repeat by dolloping more jelly on top before swirling again to create lovely marbled patterns that will be both pretty and delicious once baked.

Step 4: Bake the Bread

Pop your loaf pan into that preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked to perfection, allow your bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely—if you can resist slicing into it right away!

And there you have it—a warm loaf of Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread ready to share (or keep all to yourself)! Enjoy every slice!

Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

Making this delightful peanut butter & jelly banana bread is a breeze, and with a few tips, you can elevate it even further!

• Use Overripe Bananas: Ripe bananas are sweeter and more flavorful, which enhances the overall taste of your bread. Look for bananas with brown spots for the best results.

• Mix Gently: When combining dry and wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated. This prevents the bread from becoming tough and ensures a light, fluffy texture.

• Experiment with Jellies: Don’t hesitate to try different flavors of jelly or jam! Each variety brings its unique twist to the bread, so feel free to mix things up based on your mood or what’s in your pantry.

• Cool Completely Before Slicing: Allowing the banana bread to cool completely will make slicing easier and help maintain its structure. Warm bread can crumble more easily!

• Store Properly: To keep your banana bread fresh longer, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months.

How to Serve Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

This peanut butter & jelly banana bread is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving! Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this delightful treat.

Garnishes

• Sliced Fresh Fruit: Adding slices of fresh strawberries or bananas on top creates a colorful presentation and enhances the fruity flavor profile.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped peanuts or walnuts on top for added crunch and texture that complements the creamy peanut butter.

Side Dishes

• Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt on the side adds a tangy contrast that balances the sweetness of the banana bread.
• Smoothie: Pairing this banana bread with a refreshing fruit smoothie makes for a wholesome breakfast or snack that’s packed with nutrients.
• Tea or Coffee: Enjoying a slice with your favorite cup of tea or coffee creates a comforting experience—perfect for cozy mornings or afternoon breaks.
• Garden Salad: A light garden salad can complement the richness of the banana bread nicely, adding freshness and crunch to your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re all set to create an unforgettable experience with your 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 whip up a loaf in advance, making it a delightful snack or breakfast option throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the banana bread before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the container with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, simply take out a slice and let it thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes.
• For a warm treat, microwave the slice for about 10-15 seconds, or toast it in your toaster until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I use natural peanut butter in the Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe?

Yes! Natural peanut butter works well too. Just be aware that it may result in a slightly different texture since it tends to be more runny than creamy peanut butter.

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

Feel free to swap out the jelly flavor for your favorite! You can also add chocolate chips, nuts, or even oats for added texture and flavor.

What can I serve with Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread?

This banana bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee. It also makes a great addition to breakfast alongside fresh fruit or yogurt!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe brings back fond memories while creating new ones with your loved ones. It’s such a fun twist on traditional banana bread that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with friends, I know you’ll love every bite. So roll up your sleeves, get those ingredients ready, and enjoy making this delicious treat!