Description
Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars combine creamy peanut butter and sweet strawberry jam in a chewy dessert bar, perfect for snacks, bake sales, or family gatherings. These easy-to-make bars offer a nostalgic twist on the classic PB&J sandwich and are a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
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
Instructions
Preheat & Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
Cream Butter, Peanut Butter, and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until a dough forms.
Form the Base Layer: Press about 2/3 of the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish to form the base.
Add Jam: Spread the strawberry jam evenly over the dough, leaving edges clear.
Top with Crumbled Dough: Crumble the remaining dough over the jam layer to create a textured top.
Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cool & Serve: Let the bars cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift out using the parchment paper overhang and cut into bars.
Notes
Jam Flavor: Try different fruit jams like raspberry or blueberry for variety.
Add-ins: Add crushed peanuts or chocolate chips for extra texture.
Storage: Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
