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There’s something truly comforting about the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen. One day, while pondering how to use up those overly ripe bananas sitting on my countertop, inspiration struck—a delightful twist on the classic combination of peanut butter and jelly. This Peanut Butter and Jelly Banana Bread quickly became a family favorite, marrying the soft, sweet richness of banana with the creamy crunch of peanut butter and a tantalizing swirl of fruity jam.

It’s a dish that effortlessly straddles the line between breakfast treat and dessert indulgence. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create this moist and fluffy loaf in less than an hour. Perfect for a cozy morning or an afternoon pick-me-up, this versatile bread is bound to impress and satisfy—even those who usually reach for fast food. Trust me, once you try this unique recipe, you’ll find yourself savoring every slice!

Why is Peanut Butter Jelly Bread so special?

Unique Flavor Combination: This recipe beautifully blends the sweetness of ripe bananas with the richness of peanut butter and a fruity jam swirl.
Quick to Prepare: You can whip up this moist and fluffy loaf in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for busy days.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, it caters to all cravings, ensuring it will please everyone.
Simple Ingredients: With minimal pantry staples, you’ll find it easy to create this delightful treat without a long shopping list.
Satisfying and Comforting: The comforting aroma of freshly baked bread fills your home, making it a perfect cozy addition to your recipe collection.
Ready to make an irresistible dessert? Check out our baking tips for perfect results!

Peanut Butter Jelly Bread Ingredients

For the Batter

All-purpose flour – Provides the structure for the bread; can substitute with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the natural flavors of the banana; brown sugar can enrich the taste.
Baking powder – This leavening agent helps the bread rise; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
Egg – Binds everything together and adds moisture; consider a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
Milk – Contributes to the moisture of the batter; any plant-based milk works as a substitute.
Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile; omit if you prefer a simpler taste.
Mashed banana – The star of the show, providing natural sweetness and moisture; use very ripe bananas for the best flavor.
Peanut butter – Adds creaminess and a nutty depth; swap with almond butter or sun butter for nut-free options.
Jam (fruit preserve) – Swirled into the batter for a fruity twist; choose your favorite flavor for a personalized touch.

How to Make Peanut Butter Jelly Bread

Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350°F) and line a 1lb loaf tin with baking paper, ensuring easy removal after baking.
Combine the flour, sugar, and baking powder in a bowl until fully mixed, creating a dry blend ready for the wet ingredients.
Add the egg, milk, vanilla extract, and mashed banana; mix gently until everything is well incorporated, aiming for a thick batter with minimal lumps.
Incorporate the peanut butter and jam into the batter, stirring carefully until they are evenly distributed for that delightful flavor burst in every slice.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared tin, smoothing the top to create an even surface that will rise beautifully during baking.
Bake for 50 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating it’s perfectly cooked.
Cool on a wire rack before slicing; for an extra treat, top with more peanut butter and jam to enhance that comforting flavor before serving.

Optional: Serve warm with an extra smear of peanut butter for a luscious touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Peanut Butter Jelly Bread Variations

Invite your culinary creativity to shine with delightful twists on this beloved banana bread recipe!

Nut-Free: Swap peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option that still delivers on flavor.
Fruity Explosion: Use a medley of homemade jams like peach and apricot for a refreshing fruity blend that’s a feast for the senses.
Double Chocolate: Add in chocolate chips for a sweet surprise! The gooey chocolate melts beautifully into the soft bread.
Zesty Finish: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange zest into the batter for a subtle brightness that pairs wonderfully with peanut butter.
Grain Boost: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with oats for a heartier texture and wholesome twist; it adds a lovely chewiness.
Spice it Up: Sprinkle in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, inviting aroma.
Vegan Delight: Substitute the egg with a flax egg and use plant-based milk and yogurt to create a vegan-friendly version without compromising taste.
Coconut Cream: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical vibe, providing both flavor and delightful texture that transports you to paradise with every bite.

How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter Jelly Bread

Room Temperature: Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to enjoy its moist texture.

Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the bread in an airtight container. It can keep well for up to 1 week, maintaining its delightful taste.

Freezer: Slice the peanut butter jelly bread and wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap or foil. Freeze for up to 3 months, allowing for quick snacks or toasted treats anytime!

Reheating: To serve, simply thaw and warm in the toaster or microwave, enhancing its comforting flavors and soft texture.

What to Serve with Peanut Butter Jelly Bread?

There’s something truly special about creating a full meal experience that delights the senses and warms the heart.

Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of yogurt adds a cool and tangy balance to the sweet flavors, enhancing the overall taste.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries provide a burst of freshness, complementing the banana flavor while adding a delightful crunch.
Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey over the warm bread creates an irresistible sweet touch, enhancing its comforting qualities.
Milk or Almond Milk: A cold glass of milk pairs beautifully with peanut butter jelly bread, washing down the richness and leaving you refreshed.
Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or almonds for a satisfying crunch, that complements the soft texture of the bread, creating layers of flavor.
Ice Cream Scoop: A scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream turns this simple bread into a charming dessert, making it even more indulgent and fun!
Coffee or Tea: Your favorite cup of coffee or herbal tea works wonders, elevating this snack into a delightful afternoon escape full of warm flavors.

Make Ahead Options

These Peanut Butter and Jelly Banana Breads are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, and baking powder) and store them in an airtight container up to 3 days in advance, making your baking day a breeze. Additionally, you can mash the bananas and mix them with the peanut butter and jam, refrigerating this mixture for up to 24 hours to preserve flavor and prevent browning. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the prepared ingredients with the wet ones—egg and milk—and proceed with your usual baking instructions. This way, you’ll achieve delicious, fresh banana bread with minimal effort and time!

Expert Tips for Peanut Butter Jelly Bread

Use Ripe Bananas: Ensure your bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor; they should be spotted and soft for best results.
Mix Gently: Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until no dry flour is visible to maintain a light, fluffy texture in your peanut butter jelly bread.
Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to avoid a gummy texture—patience here pays off with perfect slices!
Storage Solution: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness without compromising flavor.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to try different jams or even swap out peanut butter for another nut butter to suit your taste preferences.

Peanut Butter Jelly Bread Recipe FAQs

What kind of bananas should I use for Peanut Butter Jelly Bread?
Absolutely, it’s best to use very ripe bananas that are spotted and soft. Ripe bananas are sweeter and provide the moisture needed for a deliciously fluffy bread!

How should I store Peanut Butter Jelly Bread?
For up to three days, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to a week without losing flavor!

Can I freeze Peanut Butter Jelly Bread?
Yes! To freeze, slice the bread and wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap or foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw and warm in a toaster or microwave!

Why does my peanut butter jelly bread come out gummy?
This can happen if the bread is sliced too soon after baking. Make sure to allow it to cool completely before cutting to ensure a light, fluffy texture. I recommend letting it cool for at least 15-20 minutes on a wire rack!

What are some alternatives for the ingredients if I have allergies?
If you’re dealing with allergies, you can use almond butter or sunflower butter instead of peanut butter for a nut-free option. Flax eggs can replace regular eggs for a vegan alternative, and any plant-based milk works well in this recipe.

Can I use a different type of jam?
Absolutely! Feel free to switch out the jam for your favorite flavor—for example, raspberry, strawberry, or even homemade jam works wonderfully to give this bread a little twist. It’s all about personal preference!