Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful way to embrace the comforting flavors of your childhood, look no further than this Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe. This recipe is a sweet homage to those classic sandwiches we all loved, now transformed into a moist and flavorful loaf that’s perfect for any occasion! Whether you need a quick breakfast fix, an afternoon snack, or something sweet to share at family gatherings, this banana bread will bring joy to everyone who takes a bite.

What makes this banana bread special is not just its delicious taste but also those beautiful jelly swirls that add flavor and a lovely marbled effect. It truly captures the essence of fun and nostalgia, making it a favorite in my kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have this batter ready to bake before you know it!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves peanut butter and jelly! This recipe is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it in advance for busy mornings or as an easy snack throughout the week.
• Deliciously Moist Texture: The ripe bananas ensure each slice is soft and moist, while the peanut butter adds richness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather them up!

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 can be! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Change the Nut Butter: Use almond or cashew butter instead of peanut butter for a different twist.
• Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Use Different Flavors of Jelly: Experiment with raspberry or apricot jelly for unique flavor combinations.
• Make It Whole Wheat: Substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition.

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, mash those ripe bananas until they’re nice and smooth. This step is crucial because the bananas provide moisture and flavor. Now stir in the creamy 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 add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients. Mixing until just combined ensures your bread remains tender.

Step 2: Layer the Batter and Jelly

Pour half of your banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spread it evenly across the bottom. Now here comes the fun part—dollop teaspoons of jelly over the batter in several spots! Using a toothpick or a butter knife, gently swirl the jelly through the batter. Be careful not to blend it completely; you want those beautiful streaks!

Step 3: Add the Second Layer

Next, pour in the remaining banana bread batter over that luscious jelly layer. Smooth it out with a spatula so everything looks nice and even on top. Repeat your dolloping and swirling process by adding more jelly on top. This creates those gorgeous marbled patterns we love!

Step 4: Bake the Bread

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

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

Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

Baking is all about having fun, and with these tips, your peanut butter & jelly banana bread will be a hit every time!

• Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots to ensure maximum sweetness and moisture.

• Mix Gently: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bread; you want it to be light and fluffy!

• Experiment with Jelly Flavors: Don’t feel limited to grape or strawberry jelly! Try different flavors like raspberry or apricot for unique twists and surprises in each slice.

• Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature, so keep an eye on your bread towards the end of baking. If it’s browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning while it finishes cooking through.

• Cool Completely Before Slicing: Allow the bread to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This helps set the structure and makes it easier to cut without squishing the loaf.

How to Serve Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

This delightful banana bread isn’t just tasty; it’s also visually appealing! Here are some ideas on how to present this delicious treat.

Garnishes

• Sliced Fresh Fruit: Add slices of banana or strawberries on top for a fresh touch that complements the flavors in the bread.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkling chopped peanuts or walnuts over the top adds a nice crunch and looks lovely.
• Drizzle of Honey or Maple Syrup: A light drizzle can enhance sweetness and add an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt provides a tangy contrast that balances out the sweetness of the bread.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness to your meal, making it more vibrant.
• Smoothie: Pairing this banana bread with a fruity smoothie creates a satisfying breakfast or snack combo that’s both nutritious and delicious.
• Nut Butter Spread: Offering additional peanut butter or almond butter alongside gives everyone a chance to personalize their slice!

Enjoy serving your peanut butter & jelly banana bread as part of a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack. Each bite is sure to bring back warm memories while delighting your taste buds!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making it an easy grab-and-go breakfast or snack throughout the week. Here’s how to store and freeze it:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the banana bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store it at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the banana bread into individual pieces for easier thawing.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag or container.
• Label the bag with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, simply remove a slice and let it thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the slice on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave a slice for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use other nut butters in the Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe?

Yes! Feel free to substitute creamy almond butter or sunflower seed butter if you prefer a different flavor or have nut allergies.

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

Make sure your bananas are very ripe as they add moisture. Also, avoid overmixing your batter and keep an eye on your baking time.

What types of jelly can I use in this recipe?

You can use any jelly or jam you love! Grape, strawberry, raspberry, or even mixed berry will all work beautifully.

Can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! Substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) and replace melted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe as much as I do! It’s not just a nostalgic treat; it’s also a wonderful way to infuse your kitchen with warmth and sweetness. Whether you’re indulging yourself or sharing with friends and family, this recipe is sure to bring smiles all around. So gather those ripe bananas and get baking—your taste buds will thank you!