Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on classic flavors, my Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe is just the thing! This recipe brings together the comforting taste of peanut butter and jelly with the moist, rich texture of banana bread. It’s a nostalgic treat that will remind you of childhood lunches while being perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight dessert or a special addition to a family gathering. Every slice offers the joy of sweet jelly swirls, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike!

Imagine the warm aroma wafting through your kitchen as this dreamy banana bread bakes to perfection. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand to share with friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 15 minutes of prep time—perfect for when you’re short on time but still want something delicious.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids love the fun jelly swirls, making this banana bread a great way to get them excited about healthy ingredients.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake a loaf ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. It stores well for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert!
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of peanut butter and banana creates a rich flavor experience that will satisfy your sweet tooth without being overly sugary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delightful banana bread! You likely have many of these items in your pantry 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

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with different flavors and add-ins.

• Change up the nut butter: Swap creamy peanut butter for almond or cashew butter for a unique twist.
• Add chocolate chips: Mix in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra indulgent treat.
• Try different jams: Experiment with your favorite jam flavors—blueberry or raspberry can offer a delicious change!
• Add nuts: For some crunch, toss in chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter before baking.

How to Make Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan. In a large mixing bowl, mash those ripe bananas until they’re smooth. This step is key because overripe bananas lend natural sweetness and moisture to our bread! Next, stir in peanut butter, sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg until everything is well combined. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt before gradually adding this mixture to your wet ingredients. Be careful not to overmix; we want that tender crumb!

Step 2: Layer the Batter and Jelly

Pour half of your lovely banana bread batter into that prepared loaf pan. Spread it out evenly so it bakes nicely. Now comes the fun part—dollop teaspoons of your chosen jelly over the batter in several spots. Using a butter knife or toothpick, gently swirl that jelly into the batter. This adds not only flavor but also beautiful streaks that will look stunning once baked!

Step 3: Add the Second Layer

Once you’ve created those lovely marbled patterns with jelly, pour the remaining batter over this first layer and smooth it out with a spatula. We’ll repeat our jelly-swirl magic on top by dolloping more jelly again! Swirling gently one last time will ensure every slice has that fruity surprise.

Step 4: Bake the Bread

Pop your loaf pan into the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked to perfection, allow your precious creation to cool in its pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack to cool completely. The aroma alone will have everyone eagerly waiting for their first slice!

Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

Making this Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread is a delightful journey, and with these handy tips, you can ensure your loaf turns out perfectly every time!

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

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

• Experiment with jelly flavors: While grape and strawberry are classic choices, don’t hesitate to try different flavors like raspberry or apricot! Each brings its own unique sweetness to the bread.

• Check for doneness carefully: Ovens can vary in temperature; start checking your bread at the 50-minute mark. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

• Let it cool completely: Allowing your banana bread to cool completely before slicing helps it set up nicely. This way, you’ll get perfect slices without crumbling!

How to Serve Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

This delicious banana bread is not only a treat on its own but can also be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience!

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top of each slice for added crunch and flavor contrast.
• Fresh fruit: Serve alongside sliced strawberries or bananas for a refreshing complement that enhances the fruity notes of the bread.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt provides a tangy contrast and makes for a well-rounded breakfast or snack option.
• Honey drizzle: A light drizzle of honey adds extra sweetness and pairs beautifully with both peanut butter and jelly flavors.
• Herbal tea: Enjoy a warm cup of chamomile or peppermint tea alongside your banana bread for a soothing afternoon treat.
• Smoothie: Blend up a berry smoothie for a vibrant side that balances the richness of the peanut butter and adds an extra nutrient boost!

By following these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create memorable moments around this delightful Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread. Enjoy every slice!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe is perfect for meal prep! Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option, a midday snack, or a sweet treat to share, you can easily make this bread ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Slice the banana bread into individual pieces for easy thawing.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, remove from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Warm slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until heated through.
• Alternatively, toast slices in a toaster or on a skillet until warm and slightly crispy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe.

Can I use other nut butters instead of peanut butter?

Absolutely! You can substitute almond butter, cashew butter, or any nut-free alternatives like sunbutter if you’re looking for something different.

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

You can reduce the sugar by using mashed dates or applesauce. Additionally, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to mix in walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture. Just make sure not to overmix when adding them to keep your banana bread fluffy.

What should I do if my banana bread turns out too dry?

If your Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread seems too dry, ensure that you’re using ripe bananas as they add moisture. Also, avoid overbaking; check for doneness a few minutes early.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe as much as I do! It’s such a nostalgic treat that brings warmth and happiness with every bite. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite flavors and toppings. Happy baking!