These Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars are a delightful twist on the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Combining creamy peanut butter with sweet strawberry jam, these bars are a chewy, nostalgic treat that’s perfect for family gatherings, bake sales, or just a sweet snack. With a rich, flavorful base and a jam-filled center, they are bound to be a hit with everyone!

Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars offer the perfect balance of sweet and savory with the comforting flavors of peanut butter and jelly. The chewy texture of the bars makes them a satisfying treat for all ages, while the homemade jam filling adds a burst of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the peanut butter. They are quick to make, easy to serve, and can be customized with your favorite fruit jam. Perfect for snack time or as a dessert for any occasion!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

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

Directions

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring there’s an overhang for easy removal.
Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the Eggs and Vanilla:
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until the dough forms.
Assemble the Bars:
Press about 2/3 of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the base layer. Spread the strawberry jam evenly over the base, leaving a small border around the edges. Crumble the remaining dough over the jam for a textured top layer.
Bake the Bars:
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is light golden brown.
Cool and Slice:
Let the bars cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment overhang and cut them into squares.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 12–16 bars

Variations

Different Nut Butters: You can replace peanut butter with almond butter or sun butter for a nut-free version, especially if there are nut allergies.
Fruit Jam Variety: While strawberry is a classic, you can experiment with other jams such as raspberry, blueberry, or even apricot for different flavors.
Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour, adjusting quantities to achieve the right consistency.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator.
Freezing: You can freeze the bars in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: Reheat individual bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven to warm them up.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different fruit jam?

Yes, feel free to use your favorite fruit jam or preserves, such as raspberry, blueberry, or even a mixed berry jam.

2. Can I make these bars without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs or other egg replacers to make these bars vegan-friendly.

3. What kind of peanut butter should I use?

Use creamy peanut butter for the best texture. If you prefer chunky peanut butter, that will also work, but it will alter the texture slightly.

4. Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour for a gluten-free option.

5. How do I store leftover bars?

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer storage.

6. Can I add chocolate chips to these bars?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips would complement the peanut butter and jelly flavor and make the bars even more indulgent.

7. Can I make these bars in advance?

Yes, these bars can be made ahead of time. Let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container until ready to serve.

8. Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, you can freeze these bars in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.

9. Can I substitute the butter with oil?

Yes, you can use coconut oil or another neutral oil instead of butter, though the texture might be slightly different.

10. Can I use less sugar?

If you prefer a less sweet dessert, you can reduce the sugar by up to 1/4 cup without significantly affecting the texture or flavor.

Conclusion

These Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars offer a delightful twist on a beloved classic. With their chewy texture, rich peanut butter flavor, and sweet jam filling, they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering or as a comforting snack. Easy to make, customizable, and absolutely delicious, these bars are the perfect treat for any occasion! Enjoy the nostalgic flavors of peanut butter and jelly in every bite!