If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly combines nostalgia and fresh delight, our Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars Recipe is your new go-to treat. Imagine the chewy goodness of a blondie infused with rich peanut butter, topped generously with sweet strawberry jam—it’s like your favorite childhood sandwich transformed into a scrumptious bar that’s both satisfying and irresistibly delicious. This recipe brings together familiar flavors with a fun twist, making every bite a perfect harmony of sweet and salty that’s sure to brighten your day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl holding a single layer of smooth, thick orange sauce with a slightly shiny surface. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, with no other items around it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars Recipe lies in its simplicity and the thoughtful selection of ingredients. Each element plays a key role, from the creamy peanut butter’s velvety richness to the sweet tang of the jam, creating layers of flavor and texture that make these bars so memorable.

Unsalted butter (1 stick, melted): Creates a rich, tender base that’s soft and chewy after baking.
Creamy peanut butter (⅓ cup + ¼ cup melted): Adds that unmistakable nutty flavor and smooth texture which is the star of the show.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances all the flavors with a hint of sweet warmth and depth.
Light brown sugar (1 cup): Brings natural sweetness and a subtle molasses note for added complexity.
Egg (1 large): Binds the ingredients together, giving structure while keeping the bars soft.
All-purpose flour (1 cup): Provides the necessary foundation for these bars without overpowering the peanut butter flavor.
Baking soda (1 tsp): Helps with gentle rising so the bars stay chewy, not cakey.
Pinch of sea salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the peanut butter’s natural savoriness.
Strawberry or raspberry jam (½ cup): A luscious topping that delivers that classic jelly sweetness and adds vibrant color.

How to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F to ensure it’s ready when your batter is perfect. Melt the butter gently in the microwave, allowing it to cool slightly before mixing. Then whisk in the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract—this combo is your flavor powerhouse. Add the light brown sugar and the egg, giving it a good whisk until everything is beautifully combined and smooth.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and a pinch of sea salt. Gradually incorporate these dry ingredients into your wet peanut butter mixture. Stir with care, just until no dry bits remain—this keeps your bars chewy and not overworked. It’s important to get a uniform consistency for those perfect textures you love.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

Prepare your 8×8 baking pan by lining it with parchment paper and giving it a light spray of cooking oil to prevent sticking. Pour your batter evenly into the pan, spreading it gently with a spatula or your hands to all edges. Next, drizzle the melted peanut butter over the top, then add dollops of jam in small scoops. For a pretty finishing touch, use a knife to swirl the peanut butter and jelly together lightly, but don’t overdo it—just a few swirls keep it visually stunning and preserve distinct layers.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pop your pan into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges turn a lovely golden brown and the top sets with a slight firmness. Let the bars cool completely; this step is key so they slice neatly into nine square servings without crumbling. If the jam seems to sink too much during baking, a little extra dollop on top before serving keeps these bars looking as tasty as they taste.

How to Serve Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars Recipe

The image shows a square baking pan lined with white parchment paper, filled with a single baked layer of golden brown cake or bar. On top, uneven swirls of thick, dark red jam are spread, some parts more concentrated and shiny, creating a textured look. The edges of the cake are slightly darker, and the jam has small seeds visible, indicating a berry flavor. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface with a few small splashes of the red jam outside the pan. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra pop of freshness, sprinkle a few toasted peanuts or a light dusting of powdered sugar over the bars. Fresh berry slices also work wonderfully, bringing brightness and complementing the jam’s sweetness perfectly. These subtle touches elevate the bars from simple to special with minimal effort.

Side Dishes

Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a luscious dessert experience. They also shine alongside a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee or tea, making snack time feel like a cozy, indulgent moment.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, cut the bars into mini squares or rectangles and serve them on a wooden board layered with fresh mint leaves. You could also package them individually in decorative parchment paper tied with twine to give as thoughtful homemade gifts—every bite feels like love wrapped in peanut butter and jelly goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your peanut butter and jelly bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps them soft and chewy, and the flavors mellow beautifully after resting.

Freezing

These bars freeze wonderfully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. They’ll stay fresh for up to two months, so you can enjoy a sweet treat whenever cravings strike by simply thawing at room temperature.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy a warm bar, pop it in the microwave for about 15 seconds or until just heated through. This makes the peanut butter wonderfully melty and the jam extra luscious, like a fresh-out-of-the-oven bakery delight.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds a fun texture contrast to the soft bars, though the bars may be slightly chunkier. Both work great depending on your preference.

Is it necessary to melt the peanut butter for the topping?

Melting the peanut butter for the topping helps it drizzle beautifully and swirl smoothly with the jam, creating those lovely marbled effects. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can skip melting and dollop it on as is.

Can I substitute other jams or preserves?

Yes! Strawberry or raspberry jam works best for a classic flavor, but feel free to try grape, blueberry, or even fig preserves for a unique twist on the traditional taste.

Are these bars gluten-free?

Not in their current form because they use all-purpose flour. However, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking to make a gluten-free version without sacrificing much texture.

How do I prevent the jam from sinking too much?

Swirling the jam gently with the melted peanut butter topping before baking helps keep it distributed evenly. Also, avoid adding too much jam in one spot. Dollop smaller amounts and spread just slightly for best results.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about the simple joys of peanut butter and jelly, especially when reinvented as these delightful bars. The Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars Recipe brings those beloved flavors to life in a chewy, sweet form that’s perfect for sharing or savoring solo. Give this recipe a try—you’ll soon see why it’s a treasured favorite for every occasion.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars Recipe