Imagine all the cozy nostalgia of your favorite childhood sandwich, transformed into a sliceable, moist loaf—welcome to your new obsession: Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread. This isn’t just your run-of-the-mill banana bread; it swirls together the creamy richness of peanut butter and the sweet tartness of your favorite jam, delivering a playful twist that gets smiles every single time. Whether you’re making breakfast more fun, jazzing up the afternoon snack game, or winning brunch with friends, this irresistible loaf is a must-try delight.

Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed how simple, everyday ingredients come together to create a loaf bursting with flavor. Each element brings something special, whether it’s richness, tenderness, or that dazzling swirl of sweet fruit. Here’s what you’ll need to make Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread shine:

Ripe Bananas: The riper, the better—spotted or almost brown bananas add natural sweetness and keep the bread extra moist.
Creamy Peanut Butter: Provides a nutty undertone and that signature peanut buttery hug in every bite.
Sugar: Sweetens the loaf and helps with the glorious, golden crust.
Melted Butter: Brings decadent richness and a soft crumb.
Vanilla Extract: Lifts all the flavors and adds a rounded, bakery-style aroma.
Large Egg: Binds everything together and gives the loaf structure.
All-Purpose Flour: The dependable base providing volume and a sturdy, yet tender, slice.
Baking Soda: The secret to a light, fluffy crumb and that beautiful rise.
Salt: Enhances the other flavors and balances the sweetness.
Jelly or Jam (for the swirl): Grape, strawberry, or any favorite flavor adds that classic swirl—don’t be shy, let your personality shine!

How to Make Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan. In a large bowl, mash your bananas until silky and smooth—this is your flavor foundation. Stir in the peanut butter, sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg. The aroma is already heavenly! In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Now, gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ones just until no flour streaks remain; this keeps everything light and fluffy.

Step 2: Layer the Batter and Jelly

Spread half of your banana bread batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan. Take your chosen jelly or jam and drop spoonfuls across the batter. Using a butter knife or toothpick, swirl the jam gently—think ribbons, not full mixing. These fruity pockets will create that signature surprise in every slice of Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread.

Step 3: Add the Second Layer

Ladle the remaining batter over your first, now-swirled layer and smooth the top. Dollop more jelly over this second layer, then swirl again to create those marbled, Instagram-worthy streaks. This double-layer method guarantees every bite has the perfect balance of banana, peanut butter, and jelly.

Step 4: Bake the Bread

Slide the loaf pan into the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Your kitchen will smell like pure happiness! You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely—if you can wait that long.

How to Serve Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread

Garnishes

A drizzle of warm peanut butter over each slice sends this loaf over the top. A sprinkle of chopped peanuts delivers crunch, or try a dusting of powdered sugar for a bakery-cute finish. Even a little extra smear of your favorite jelly looks and tastes divine.

Side Dishes

Pair your Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread with fresh berries for a breakfast that feels like a treat, or a scoop of vanilla yogurt for creaminess. For coffee breaks, a cold glass of milk or a hot mug of coffee makes the perfect partner.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn slices into indulgent French toast, or toast them and slather with extra peanut butter. Tiny cubes double as adorable lunchbox treats or toppers for ice cream sundaes. For a brunch board, serve alongside mini fruit skewers and a bowl of additional jam.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your loaf has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay deliciously tender for up to 3 days—though chances are it’ll disappear much sooner!

Freezing

Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread freezes like a dream. Slice the loaf, then wrap each piece or the whole loaf in plastic and pop it into a freezer bag. It’ll keep for up to 3 months—just think of all those lazy mornings when you can pull out a ready-made treat!

Reheating

To enjoy that just-baked warmth, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 20 seconds, or in a toaster oven until heated through. Frozen slices can be thawed overnight at room temperature or gently warmed straight from the freezer for instant satisfaction.

FAQs

Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter adds bigger bursts of nutty texture, so use it if you want that classic “crunch” in every bite of Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread.

What kind of jelly is best for swirling?

Any jelly or jam you love will work perfectly—grape and strawberry are classics, but raspberry, blackberry, or even blueberry are equally delicious. Feel free to mix flavors for a unique swirl!

How do I know when my banana bread is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center; the bread is ready if it comes out clean or with just a crumb or two. If you hit a jelly pocket, check a few spots to be sure.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend at a 1:1 ratio. The flavor and texture of Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread remain wonderful.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely. Just prepare two loaf pans and bake both together, or freeze one loaf to enjoy later. The leftovers make for amazing snacks throughout the week!

Final Thoughts

Trust me—one bite of Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread will have you wondering why you haven’t been swirling your favorite childhood flavors into banana bread all along. It’s an easy, joyful bake that brings out smiles, no matter the occasion. Gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try; you might just find it becomes a new go-to for friends and family alike!