If you’re a fan of nostalgic flavors with a fun twist, this PB and Jelly Banana Bread Recipe is about to become your new favorite treat. It combines the beloved classic duo of peanut butter and jelly with the moist, rich comfort of banana bread, creating a loaf that’s bursting with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re baking for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this recipe brings warm, gooey sweetness and a lovely swirl of fruity jam, making it impossible to resist. Trust me, once you try this version of banana bread, you’ll be hooked for life.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients come together to make this PB and Jelly Banana Bread Recipe truly special. Each item not only enhances the flavor but adds to the perfect texture and color that make this bread so inviting.
- 3 ripe bananas: Provides natural sweetness and moisture, essential for tender bread.
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: Adds a rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture.
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter): Keeps the bread moist and tender.
- 2/3 cup brown sugar: Gives a deep caramel sweetness and beautiful color.
- 2 large eggs: Helps bind everything together and adds structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm, sweet aroma.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the bread’s soft crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Assists in the rise, making the bread light and fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and boosts flavor.
- 1/3 cup strawberry or raspberry jam (plus extra for swirling): Adds bright, fruity bursts that perfectly contrast with peanut butter.
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional, for topping): Provides delightful crunch and extra peanut flavor.
How to Make PB and Jelly Banana Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure your bread comes out beautifully.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, creamy peanut butter, vegetable oil, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This is the flavor base, packed with creamy richness and natural sweetness.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. These dry ingredients will provide structure and help your bread rise perfectly.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring just until everything is combined. Be gentle to avoid overmixing, which can make the bread tough instead of tender.
Step 5: Add the Jam and Swirl
Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Dollop half the jam over the batter, then use a knife to swirl it gently through the mixture. Repeat with the remaining batter and jam, finishing with another swirl. This marbled effect not only looks gorgeous but ensures delicious pockets of fruity jelly in every bite.
Step 6: Add Topping and Bake
If you love a bit of crunch, sprinkle chopped peanuts on top. Place your loaf in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Cooling completely makes slicing easier and lets the flavors settle beautifully.
How to Serve PB and Jelly Banana Bread Recipe
Garnishes
For a delightful finishing touch, spread a light layer of your favorite jam or a thin smear of peanut butter on each slice. A sprinkle of chopped nuts or even a dusting of powdered sugar adds a charming look and extra texture that will turn heads.
Side Dishes
This banana bread shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit or a dollop of Greek yogurt for breakfast. For a comforting snack, a hot cup of coffee or tea perfectly complements the warm, nutty flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the bread thickly and toasting it lightly, then adding a drizzle of honey or a spread of cream cheese for an indulgent twist. You can also cut the banana bread into mini loaves or muffins to serve at parties or on-the-go breakfasts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your PB and Jelly Banana Bread Recipe fresh by storing leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week to maintain moistness while slowing spoilage.
Freezing
If you want to save the bread for a later date, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. It can last in the freezer for up to three months without losing its delicious texture or flavor.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen slices in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Reheat briefly in a toaster oven or microwave for a warm, fresh-baked taste that tastes just like the day it was made.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture and peanut flavor to the banana bread, making it even more delightful with little peanut bits throughout.
Is it possible to substitute the jam with other flavors?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different jams or jellies such as blueberry, apricot, or mixed berry. Each will create a unique, tasty twist on this classic PB and Jelly Banana Bread Recipe.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
You can! Use flax eggs or another egg substitute and a plant-based butter or oil. Make sure your jam is vegan-friendly too, and you’ll have a delicious vegan banana bread.
Why do you swirl the jam instead of mixing it in?
Swirling the jam creates beautiful marbled pockets of fruity flavor throughout the bread, offering bursts of sweetness and color rather than blending the flavor uniformly.
How ripe should the bananas be for best results?
Choose bananas that are very ripe, with plenty of brown spots. They will be sweeter and softer, resulting in a more flavorful and moist banana bread.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this PB and Jelly Banana Bread Recipe enough—it’s a comforting, nostalgic treat that’s surprisingly easy to make and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or keeping it all to yourself, this bread embodies warmth and joy in every bite. Go ahead and bake a loaf today; your kitchen and taste buds will thank you!
Print
PB and Jelly Banana Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This PB and Jelly Banana Bread combines the classic flavors of peanut butter and fruit jam into a moist, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, while a swirl of strawberry or raspberry jam creates a delightful fruity contrast. Topped with optional chopped peanuts for added texture, this easy-to-make bread is a nostalgic twist on a beloved sandwich.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 2/3 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Additional Ingredients
- 1/3 cup strawberry or raspberry jam (plus extra for swirling)
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, creamy peanut butter, vegetable oil, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until you have a smooth and well-combined mixture.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to ensure even distribution of the leavening agent and seasoning.
- Mix Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined to avoid overmixing and maintain a tender crumb.
- Layer Batter and Jam: Spoon half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Dollop half of the jam over the batter, then gently swirl the jam with a knife for a marbled effect. Repeat with the remaining batter and jam, swirling again to distribute.
- Add Toppings: If desired, sprinkle chopped peanuts evenly on top of the batter for added crunch and flavor.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the bread is fully cooked.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents sogginess and allows slicing without crumbling.
Notes
- Any flavor of jam or jelly can be substituted to suit your taste preferences.
- For a richer flavor, you can replace part of the vegetable oil with melted butter.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week to maintain freshness.
