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 what you need! Imagine the comforting aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through your kitchen, paired with the nostalgic flavors of peanut butter and jelly. This recipe is not just about deliciousness; it’s also about creating sweet memories. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight treat or a family gathering, this bread brings smiles all around.

What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to whip up. You can make it in one bowl, and every bite offers a burst of fruity sweetness from the jelly swirls. Trust me; your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for those hectic days when you want something homemade without the fuss.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will adore the combination of peanut butter and jelly in a moist banana bread form. It’s a hit at any age!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. It stays fresh and delicious, making breakfast or snacks effortless.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The rich taste of peanut butter combined with sweet jelly creates an irresistible flavor that will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for this Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread is simple and fun! You likely have many of these wholesome items in your pantry already. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

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! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients for a unique twist on your banana bread.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Try Different Jellies: Experiment with different flavors like raspberry or apricot to find your favorite combination.
• Mix in Chocolate Chips: For an indulgent treat, add semi-sweet chocolate chips to the batter.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) and use plant-based butter.

How to Make Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

First things first—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 smooth; they are key to keeping your bread moist! Then stir in the creamy peanut butter, sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg until everything is well mixed. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually combine the dry ingredients into the wet mixture—this keeps your batter light!

Step 2: Layer the Batter and Jelly

Pour half of your banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Now comes the fun part! Dollop teaspoons of jelly over the batter in several spots. Using either a butter knife or toothpick, gently swirl that delicious jelly through the batter to create beautiful streaks—don’t blend completely; we want those lovely marbled patterns!

Step 3: Add the Second Layer

Carefully pour the remaining batter over that lovely jelly layer and smooth it out with a spatula. We’re going to repeat our swirling magic here! Dollop more jelly on top and swirl gently again to create even more lovely marble effects throughout.

Step 4: Bake the Bread

Pop that loaf pan into your preheated oven and let it bake for 50-60 minutes. The smell will be heavenly! To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, you’re ready to go. Allow your bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy each slice of this Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread warm or at room temperature—it’s simply irresistible!

Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

Making banana bread is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your baking game even further!

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

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing just until combined keeps the bread tender and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so be gentle!

• Experiment with Jelly Flavors: While grape and strawberry are classics, feel free to get creative with your favorite jelly or jam. Raspberry or blueberry can add a unique twist!

• Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary in temperature. Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.

• Store Properly for Freshness: To keep your banana bread moist, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

How to Serve Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

This peanut butter & jelly banana bread makes a wonderful snack or breakfast treat, and it’s easy to present beautifully too!

Garnishes

• Sliced Bananas: Fresh banana slices on top not only look appealing but also enhance the banana flavor.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped peanuts or walnuts on top for added crunch and texture.

Side Dishes

• Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt alongside the banana bread adds creaminess and a tangy contrast that complements the sweetness.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits brings brightness to your plate and balances the richness of the bread.
• Honey Drizzle: A drizzle of honey over each slice adds an extra touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the peanut butter.
• Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea like chamomile or mint makes for a cozy beverage pairing that enhances this delightful treat.

Enjoy your baking adventure, and don’t forget to share this sweet creation with friends and family!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious slices throughout the week. It stores well and even gets better with time as the flavors meld together!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

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

Reheating

• For individual slices, microwave on medium power for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• For a whole loaf, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe.

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

Yes! You can use almond butter or sunflower seed butter if you’re looking for a nut-free option. Just make sure that it’s a creamy variety for best results.

How do I ensure my Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread turns out moist?

Using very ripe bananas will add moisture and natural sweetness. Additionally, don’t overmix the batter; mix until just combined.

Can I use a different type of jelly in the Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors of jelly or jam. Strawberry, raspberry, or even apricot can create delightful variations!

What can I add to enhance my Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread?

Consider adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or oats for extra texture and flavor. Just remember not to overdo it so that the bread stays light and fluffy.

How long does Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread last?

When stored properly at room temperature, it lasts about 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage as mentioned above!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe brings back fond memories while treating your taste buds! It’s such a comforting treat that’s perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. Enjoy making it and sharing with loved ones—there’s nothing quite like homemade goodness. Happy baking!