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Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars 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.

Ingredients

Scale

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