If you grew up adoring the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich and are now hunting for the ultimate comfort bake, prepare to fall in love with this Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe! This irresistible twist on traditional banana bread is everything you love about a lunchtime favorite, but in golden, tender slices packed with gooey jam swirls and nutty richness. Whether you’re baking for breakfast, snacktime, or a sweet gift, this is the loaf that brings joy to your kitchen and a nostalgic smile to every bite.

Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is delightfully straightforward, and every item brings something special to the party—think ripe bananas for natural sweetness, peanut butter for smooth richness, and jam for a pop of fruit-filled flavor. Each component shines to make this Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe truly memorable.

Bananas: Choose well-ripened bananas for that deep, caramelized banana flavor and extra moist crumb.
Creamy peanut butter: This adds body and a subtle salty contrast; go for smooth for the best texture throughout the bread.
Sugar: White sugar keeps the bread sweet and balances the peanut butter’s savory notes.
Melted butter: Infuses richness and helps the crumb stay soft after baking.
Vanilla extract: A splash brings in warm, cozy aroma and rounds out the bread’s flavors.
Egg: Just one large egg binds the batter, keeping the loaf tender and structured.
All-purpose flour: This classic gives just enough lift without making the bread dense.
Baking soda: The leavening hero, this ensures a light, fluffy rise.
Salt: A tiny amount brightens up all the flavors and prevents blandness.
Jelly or jam: Whether you pick grape, strawberry, or your favorite variety, this swirl is the centerpiece that makes every slice pop!

How to Make Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Batter

Kick things off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously greasing your trusty 9×5-inch loaf pan. In a large mixing bowl, mash your bananas until there are no big lumps left—a few small chunks add nice texture! Blend in the peanut butter, sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and egg until you have a smooth, glossy mixture. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt, then gradually mix the dry blend into your wet ingredients. Mix just until no dry patches remain—overmixing can make your loaf tough.

Step 2: Swirl in the Jelly

Now comes the magical part: creating those gorgeous jelly ribbons. Pour half the batter into your pan and spread it evenly. Dot teaspoons of jelly over the top, spreading them out but not mixing too much. Take a butter knife or toothpick and gently swirl the jelly through the batter. It’s okay if it looks imperfect—swirled is what we’re after, not blended!

Step 3: Build the Second Layer

Spoon the remaining banana bread batter gently over the swirled base. Smooth with a spatula so it covers the jelly underneath. Repeat the process with your remaining jelly, adding more dollops on top and swirling lightly again. You want those pretty marbled streaks running through the loaf, so don’t go overboard with the swirling.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Slide your loaf pan into the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. It’s ready when a toothpick comes out clean or with only a smidge of moist crumb. Let the bread cool for about 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling. This last step is tough, but patience pays off with the perfect texture!

How to Serve Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh out of the oven, this bread is a showstopper on its own, but why not dress it up a little? Sprinkle crushed, roasted peanuts on top for a pleasant crunch, or drizzle a bit more warm peanut butter or jelly over the slices just before serving. Even a dusting of powdered sugar can add a touch of elegance for brunch or special occasions.

Side Dishes

Pair a thick slice with a mug of hot coffee or tea to highlight the bread’s sweet and salty balance. For breakfast, a scoop of Greek yogurt and some fresh berries make the perfect, wholesome accompaniments. If you’re aiming for dessert, a dollop of vanilla ice cream turns this Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe into a memorable after-dinner treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Cubing the bread and threading onto skewers with extra fruit (think strawberries or banana slices) makes a fun snack board. Or, imagine mini banana bread sandwiches: slice, spread with more peanut butter and jelly, and create little bites—the kids (and adults!) will go wild. Alternatively, serve thick toasted slices and add a scoop of frozen yogurt for a summertime brunch idea.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cool, wrap your loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps it perfectly moist and prevents the bread from drying out, so you can snack through the week.

Freezing

If you’d like to save some for later, this Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe freezes beautifully. Slice the loaf or keep it whole, wrap in a layer of plastic followed by foil, and freeze for up to two months. Let it thaw overnight at room temperature or unwrap and microwave a piece for a quick treat.

Reheating

To revive that freshly-baked magic, gently warm a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. For that crispy, bakery-style edge, pop a slice into the toaster oven until just heated through. Always watch for gooey jelly spots—they’ll get extra melty and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a bit of nutty texture throughout the bread, giving every bite a lovely little surprise. Just keep in mind that the overall loaf may be slightly heartier, but it’s a fun twist if you love a little crunch.

What’s the best type of jelly to use for this Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe?

Use whatever makes your tastebuds happy: classic grape for a nostalgic vibe, strawberry for extra brightness, or try raspberry or blueberry for a sophisticated touch. Even apricot jam brings a sunshiney flavor. Just make sure it’s not too runny, or it may sink into the loaf while baking.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free 1-to-1 baking blend. The bananas and peanut butter keep things moist, so your bread will still be tender and flavorful. Be sure to check your other ingredients (especially the jam) to ensure they’re all gluten-free as well.

How do I prevent the bread from sticking to the pan?

Grease your loaf pan well with butter or baking spray, and consider lining the pan with parchment for extra insurance. Let the bread rest for ten minutes before turning out—it helps it release easily without breaking.

Can I double the Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe?

Certainly! Double all ingredients and divide into two loaf pans. Bake side by side and check both for doneness; they may need a touch longer or shorter depending on your oven. It’s a fantastic way to make one for you and one to share.

Final Thoughts

This Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread Recipe is pure joy baked into a loaf; it’s comforting, nostalgic, and just a little bit whimsical. Give it a try with your favorite jam or peanut butter variation, and you’ll have a new family favorite before you know it. Happy baking—you and your kitchen are about to smell incredible!