Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars are a nostalgic treat that brings the flavors of childhood into a rich, portable dessert. Combining the creamy, nutty flavor of peanut butter with the sweet tartness of strawberry jam, these bars have a delightful chewy texture that makes them utterly satisfying. Perfect for family gatherings, bake sales, or as an after-school snack, these bars are a delicious twist on the classic sandwich. Their warm, inviting aroma wafting from the oven will remind you of cozy afternoons, making it an ideal addition to any occasion that calls for a touch of sweetness.

this recipe

What You’ll Need for Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

Complete Ingredients List

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 cups creamy peanut butter
• 3 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 cups strawberry jam

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

If you’re considering substitutions for dietary needs, here are some alternatives:

• Butter: Use coconut oil or dairy-free butter for a dairy-free option.
• Sugar: Substitute with brown sugar or a zero-calorie sweetener such as monk fruit or erythritol for a lower-calorie version.
• Peanut Butter: Almond butter or sun butter can be used for nut allergies.
• Flour: Almond or coconut flour is great for gluten-free bars. Remember to adjust the quantity, as these flours behave differently.
• Jam: Any fruit jam or preserve can replace strawberry; raspberry, blueberry, or even apricot work beautifully.

These variations not only accommodate dietary restrictions but also create a unique twist on the classic recipe.

How to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

Creating these delicious bars is an easy process that results in a mouthwatering treat everyone will love.

Step 1: Prepping the Oven and Baking Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing for some overhang that will make it easier to lift the bars out once baked.

Step 2: Creaming the Butter, Peanut Butter, and Sugar

In a standing mixer, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 2 cups of creamy peanut butter, and 1 ½ cups of sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. It’s crucial to blend these ingredients thoroughly, as this will give your bars a rich, creamy base.

Step 3: Incorporating the Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add in 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This not only helps the eggs incorporate smoothly into the mixture but also aids in building volume. Follow this by adding 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, which will enhance the overall flavor profile of your bars.

Step 4: Combining Dry Ingredients

In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups of flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Gradually combine this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until everything comes together. The dough will be thick and should resemble cookie dough consistency.

Step 5: Creating the Base Layer

Using about 2/3 of the dough, press it evenly into the bottom of the lined baking dish. Make sure to spread it out to cover the base completely, creating a solid foundation for your jam.

Step 6: Spreading the Jam

Now it’s time to add the star ingredient—2 cups of strawberry jam. Spread the jam evenly across the base layer, leaving a bit of space near the edges to prevent it from spilling over during baking.

Step 7: Crumbling the Top Layer

Take the remaining dough and crumble it over the jam layer. This will give the bars a beautiful, textured top layer that’s both visually appealing and delicious.

Step 8: Baking the Bars

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top turns a light, golden brown. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to ensure it doesn’t over-bake.

Step 9: Cooling and Cutting

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out, and then cut them into squares or rectangles for serving.

Serving Suggestions for Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

How to Serve Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

These bars can be enjoyed warm, at room temperature, or chilled. However, they are at their best when served slightly warm, as the peanut butter becomes even creamier, and the jam is more aromatic.

Plating Tips: For a stylish presentation, consider serving them on a rustic wooden board dusted with powdered sugar. You can also garnish with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for added indulgence.

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

While these bars are delightful on their own, there are several delicious additions you can incorporate:

• Ice Cream: Pair with vanilla, chocolate, or even strawberry ice cream.
• Drizzles: A warm drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce enhances the dessert beautifully.
• Fresh Fruit: Serve with slices of fresh strawberries or banana for a refreshing contrast.

Adding these pairings elevates the experience and makes it an exciting treat to serve on various occasions.

Storing & Preserving Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

Best Storage Methods

To maintain their freshness, store your Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars in an airtight container. These bars can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days. However, if you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerating them will keep them good for around a week.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

If you have leftovers you want to preserve longer, consider freezing them. Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To enjoy, simply remove a portion and let it thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for a few seconds for that freshly baked taste.

Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars Every Time

Avoid These Common Mistakes

1. Overmixing the Dough: While mixing is essential, overdoing it can lead to tough bars. Mix just until combined.
2. Not Using Parchment Paper: Skipping on parchment can lead to sticking, making it impossible to remove the bars intact.
3. Skipping the Cooling Step: Cutting too soon can result in gooey bars that fall apart.

Helpful Tricks for Success

1. Measure Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to avoid using too much, which can lead to dry bars.
2. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring eggs and butter to room temperature for better emulsion, leading to a fluffy texture.
3. Let Them Cool: Allowing the bars to cool fully sets the layers and helps maintain their structure.

Fun Variations of Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

Get creative with your Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars by trying these fun variations:

• Chocolate Chip Add-In: Mix a cup of chocolate chips into the dough for a rich treat.
• Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped peanuts or other nuts for added texture.
• Different Jams: Explore various fruit jams like raspberry, blackberry, or even lemon curd for a citrusy twist.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

If you want to adjust the recipe for specific dietary needs, consider these options:

• Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg).
• Sugar-Free: Use sugar alternatives while ensuring they can handle baking well; look for suitable baking substitutes.
• Keto Approach: Use almond flour and a keto-friendly sweetener for a low-carb option.

FAQs

What If My Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars Doesn’t Turn Out Right?

If your bars turn out too dry, you may have overbaked them or used too much flour. Always double-check your measurements and baking time. If they are too crumbly, consider increasing the fat content slightly (more peanut butter or butter) in your next attempt.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

Yes, these bars can be made in advance! Once baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or they can be refrigerated for a week.

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

If you’re looking to replace ingredients, consider using almond butter for peanut butter in case of nut allergies. For a flour alternative, almond flour or coconut flour works well, but remember to adjust the ratios since these flours absorb moisture differently.

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