Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars Recipe

Introduction

Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars combine the nostalgic flavors of a classic PB&J sandwich into a buttery, chewy treat. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with layers of creamy peanut butter and sweet strawberry jam.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 350 degrees and line a 9×13 baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: Using a standing mixer, cream together the butter, peanut butter, and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Step 3: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until combined, then add the vanilla extract.
4. Step 4: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.
5. Step 5: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
6. Step 6: Use about two-thirds of the dough and evenly press it into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
7. Step 7: Spread the strawberry jam evenly over the bottom dough layer.
8. Step 8: Crumble the remaining dough over the jam layer to cover it.
9. Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown.
10. Step 10: Remove from the oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars and serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra texture, add chopped peanuts or chocolate chips to the dough before baking.
• Try using different flavors of jam like raspberry or grape for a twist on the classic.
• Make sure the butter and eggs are at room temperature to ensure a smooth batter.

Storage

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or serve chilled for a firmer texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter adds a nice texture and works well in this recipe if you prefer a bit of extra crunch.

Can I substitute any other type of jam?

Absolutely! Any fruity jam or preserves can be used depending on your taste preference. Just be sure to spread it evenly for the best results.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 85 reviews

Deliciously rich and chewy Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars featuring a buttery peanut butter crust layered with sweet strawberry jam, baked to a golden perfection. These bars combine the classic flavors of peanut butter and jelly in an easy-to-make dessert perfect for snacks, parties, or anytime indulgence.

• Author: Victoria
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes
• Yield: 24 bars 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 2 cup creamy peanut butter

Dry Ingredients

• 3 cup flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

Other

• 2 cup strawberry jam

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy removal.
2. Cream Butter, Peanut Butter, and Sugar: In a standing mixer, beat together the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next, then mix in the vanilla extract for flavor.
4. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder to evenly distribute the leavening agent.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined to form a dough.
6. Form Bottom Layer: Take about two-thirds of the dough and evenly press it into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create a firm base layer.
7. Add Jam Layer: Spread the strawberry jam evenly over the dough layer, ensuring full coverage for consistent flavor in each bar.
8. Add Crumble Topping: Crumble the remaining one-third dough evenly over the jam layer to create a textured top layer.
9. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
10. Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares to serve and enjoy the perfect texture.

Notes

• For best results, use room temperature eggs to help the batter mix more smoothly.
• Substitute strawberry jam with any other favorite fruit preserves if desired.
• Ensure the butter is softened but not melted for optimal creaming.
• Allow bars to cool completely to prevent them from crumbling when cut.
• These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerated for up to a week.

Keywords: peanut butter bars, peanut butter and jelly bars, strawberry jam bars, baked bars, easy dessert, sweet snack