Peanut Butter Jelly Bliss Bars

Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars: A Classic Combo, Reimagined

There’s nothing quite like the universally adored combination of peanut butter and jelly. It’s a flavor pairing that transcends generations, evoking cherished memories of childhood lunchboxes and comforting after-school snacks. Our Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars take this beloved duo and transform it into an exciting, easy-to-make dessert bar that’s perfect for any occasion. Imagine a soft, chewy peanut butter base, generously layered with fruity jelly, and crowned with a delightful streusel scattered with mini chocolate chips. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes – sweet, salty, chewy, and crunchy – all in one bite. Each batch turns out perfectly golden and receives rave reviews, making it a staple in many homes.

Taste a Memory: The Enduring Appeal of PB&J

Oh, peanut butter and jelly! It’s more than just a simple snack; it’s a portal to the past, a memorable taste of childhood that continues to satisfy cravings well into adulthood. The timeless appeal of PB&J never fades, offering a sense of warmth and familiarity that few other food combinations can match. I’ve been perfecting versions of these delightful Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars since my college days. Back then, it was my sophisticated (or so I thought!) way of enjoying my favorite childhood flavors, even as I navigated the challenges of being a “grown-up.” These bars capture that nostalgic essence, allowing you to savor those sweet memories with every delicious bite.

Customize Your Perfect Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars: Crunchy or Creamy?

This versatile Peanut Butter and Jelly Bar recipe has evolved through countless delicious iterations over the years. One of the most enjoyable aspects is the freedom to customize it to your personal preferences. First, let’s address the great peanut butter debate: are you team creamy or team crunchy? Either works beautifully in this recipe, so feel free to use your favorite! Creamy peanut butter creates a smoother base, while crunchy peanut butter adds an extra layer of texture. Then there’s the jelly! While strawberry and blackberry are perennial favorites in our kitchen, peach and blueberry jellies also make frequent appearances, offering their own unique fruity notes. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your preferred jam or preserves; the possibilities are endless. For a different twist on the topping, sometimes I swap the chocolate chips for peanut butter chips and chopped peanuts, creating a different but equally delightful flavor profile, much like in these fresh Strawberry Peanut Butter Bars. You truly can’t go wrong, no matter how you choose to personalize them!

Effortless Baking: So Easy to Make!

One of the best things about these Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars is how incredibly simple they are to prepare. You don’t need to be an experienced baker to achieve perfect results every time. The dough comes together quickly with basic pantry staples you likely already have on hand – peanut butter, butter, honey, eggs, flour, and baking powder. The simplicity of the ingredients, combined with straightforward steps, means you can whip up a batch of these scrumptious bars in no time. They are truly foolproof! Everyone who tries them falls in love, and I often find myself sharing this recipe with friends and family. It’s a testament to how something so simple can be so utterly delicious and satisfying.

The Secret Ingredients: A Drizzle of Honey & A Hint of Chocolate

What truly sets these Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars apart are two delightful additions: honey and chocolate. I’ve always enjoyed a little drizzle of honey in my classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich for that perfect balance of sweetness and nuanced flavor. So, for these bars, instead of relying solely on granulated sugar, I use honey as the primary sweetener in the peanut butter base. The result is absolutely amazing – a subtle, natural sweetness and a wonderful depth of flavor in every bite that perfectly complements the peanut butter and jelly. And while I often say the chocolate chips on top are optional, let’s be honest: if we’re transforming a beloved sandwich into a decadent dessert, chocolate is an essential guest at the party! The mini chocolate chip streusel adds a fantastic crunch and a rich, sweet cocoa note that elevates these bars to an irresistible treat.

Gather Your Ingredients to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

Creating these delightful Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars starts with a few simple, accessible ingredients. Most of these are likely already in your pantry! For the peanut butter, opt for a “no-stir” variety, as natural peanut butters can sometimes separate and alter the texture. Whether you choose creamy or crunchy is entirely up to your preference – both yield delicious results. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness, while honey provides that unique, warm sweetness we love. Large eggs act as a binder, and vanilla extract enhances all the flavors. All-purpose flour is the base, complemented by baking powder for a light lift, and kosher salt to balance the sweetness. The star, of course, is your favorite jelly or jam; any flavor will shine! Finally, mini chocolate chips are crucial for that irresistible streusel topping. Don’t forget your 9×13 baking dish and parchment paper for easy cleanup!

• Peanut butter (no-stir, creamy or crunchy recommended)
• Unsalted butter
• Honey
• Large eggs
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Kosher salt
• Jelly (any flavor) or jam
• Mini chocolate chips
• 9×13 baking dish
• Parchment paper

Explore More of The Best Brownies and Bars

If you’ve enjoyed these Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars, you’re in for a treat! Our extensive collection of brownies and bars offers something for every craving. From irresistibly chewy and fudgy brownies to nutty, chunky, and intensely chocolatey creations, we’ve got you covered. Whether you prefer no-bake delights for quick assembly or indulgent flourless options, our curated selection of Best Brownies and Bars promises to satisfy every palate. Dive in and discover your next favorite dessert!

Step-by-Step: How to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

Crafting these delicious Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars is a straightforward process, designed for success even for novice bakers. Follow these simple steps to bring this classic combination to life in your kitchen:

• First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it lightly with cooking spray or, for easier removal and cleanup, line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. Set it aside.
• In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or using a hand mixer), combine the peanut butter, softened unsalted butter, and honey. Beat on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well-creamed.
• Next, add the large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition until fully incorporated. The mixture should be smooth and cohesive.
• Finally, beat in the vanilla extract, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the wet ingredients.

• In a separate, medium-sized bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. This ensures they are evenly combined before adding to the wet mixture.
• With your mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix just until everything is well combined and a thick, uniform dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
• Transfer approximately two-thirds of the dough into your prepared baking pan. Using your hands or a spatula, gently but firmly press the dough down evenly across the bottom of the pan to form the base of your bars.

• Carefully spread your chosen jelly evenly over the peanut butter dough base. Don’t worry if it doesn’t cover every single inch; the magic will happen in the oven!

• Take the remaining one-third of the dough and crumble it evenly over the layer of jelly. This will create a delicious streusel-like topping. Then, generously sprinkle the mini chocolate chips over the crumbled dough.

• Bake the bars in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the edges are set. A toothpick inserted into the peanut butter base (avoiding the jelly layer) should come out with moist crumbs.
• Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars to cool completely on a wire rack before attempting to cut them. This is crucial for clean, well-formed bars. Patience will be rewarded!

Storage Tips for Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

These Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars are so delicious, they rarely last long! However, if you happen to have any leftovers or want to bake ahead, proper storage will keep them fresh and tasty.

• Room Temperature: Store your peanut butter and jelly bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. Ensure they are completely cool before storing to prevent condensation.
• Refrigeration: For a slightly firmer texture and extended freshness, these bars store wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to a week. They’re also incredibly tasty when enjoyed chilled – a refreshing treat on a warm day!
• Freezing: If you’re looking to store them for a longer period, these bars freeze beautifully for up to three months. To freeze, wrap each individual bar tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe plastic bag or an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them defrost at room temperature for an hour or two, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm, gooey treat.

Frequently Asked Questions About Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

We’ve gathered some common questions to help you perfect your Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars.

Can I use natural peanut butter?

While you can, we recommend using a “no-stir” creamy or crunchy peanut butter for best results. Natural peanut butter tends to separate and can make the dough oily or crumbly, affecting the final texture of the bars.

What kind of jelly or jam is best?

Any flavor you love for your sandwiches will work! Strawberry, grape, raspberry, and blackberry jellies are classic choices. Feel free to experiment with more unique flavors like apricot, peach, or even blueberry jam for a gourmet touch. Jam with small fruit pieces also adds a lovely texture.

Can I make these gluten-free?

We haven’t tested a gluten-free version of this specific recipe, but typically you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend that contains xanthan gum. Results may vary slightly in texture.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the streusel topping is golden brown and the edges appear set. If you insert a toothpick into the peanut butter base (avoiding the jelly layer), it should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter. Overbaking can lead to dry bars.

Can I skip the chocolate chips?

Absolutely! The chocolate chips add a wonderful crunch and extra sweetness, but the bars are still delightful without them. If you prefer, you can sprinkle with chopped peanuts, a little extra streusel dough, or even a dash of cinnamon sugar instead.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double this recipe. You’ll need to use a larger baking pan, such as a full sheet pan, or bake in two 9×13-inch pans. Baking time might need to be adjusted slightly, so keep an eye on them.

Serving Suggestions for Your Delicious PB&J Bars

These versatile Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars are perfect for almost any occasion! Here are a few ideas to enjoy them:

• Everyday Treat: Enjoy them as an afternoon snack with a cold glass of milk, or pack them in lunchboxes for a delightful surprise.
• Dessert Extravaganza: Serve them slightly warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and an extra drizzle of honey for an indulgent dessert.
• Party Pleaser: Cut them into smaller squares for a crowd-pleasing addition to potlucks, parties, or bake sales. They’re always a hit!
• Breakfast Boost: While definitely a dessert, a smaller piece with your morning coffee can be a delightful start to the day.

I could continue sharing endless reasons why we adore these Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars – how often I bake them, how universally loved they are, and how I find myself enjoying them at any time of day, from breakfast to a late-night treat. But I truly don’t want you to wait another moment to experience them for yourselves. I am confident that you will cherish them just as much as my family and I do!

If you bake these delightful Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars and capture a picture for social media, please be sure to tag me on Instagram @thebakermama so I can see your wonderful creations! 😍 It brings me so much joy to see how inspired and creative you all become with the recipes and ideas I share. Enjoy every last crumb!

xoxo,