Peanut Butter Jelly Bars

Oh man, when it comes to sweet treats, these peanut butter and jam bars are just… well, they’re something special! Imagine a warm, gooey peanut butter base, topped with that luscious, fruity jam, all cozied up with little crunchy bits on top. It’s like a hug in dessert form. Seriously, these bars remind me of lazy Sunday afternoons at my grandparents’ house, when the smell of baking would just waft through the air. You know what I mean? Perfect for snacking or even dessert, and honestly, they just hit the spot.

Why You’ll Crave It

• They come together in about 40 minutes—total.
• Every bite gives you that sweet-and-salty combo we all love!
• So easy to customize… different jams, different nuts—the possibilities!
• They totally disappear at gatherings; trust me, no one can resist.

My family fights over the last one… it’s true!

What You’ll Need

• Peanut Butter: 200 grams of that creamy, rich goodness—go for natural, if you can.
• Sugar: Just 100 grams, to balance everything out nicely.
• Egg: Just one will do, to help bind the bars together.
• Flour: 150 grams, all-purpose works perfectly here.
• Baking Powder: Half a teaspoon to give it that nice lift.
• Jam: 100 grams of your favorite—strawberry, raspberry, anything sweet!
• Crushed Peanuts: Just a handful for that extra crunch on top.

Easy How-To

Getting Ready

Alright, first things first—preheat that oven to about 180°C (or 350°F). While that’s warming up, grab an 8-inch square baking dish, and grease it with butter or line it with parchment paper. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later when it’s time to get those bars out.

Mixing It Up

In a big mixing bowl, toss in 200 grams of flour with 100 grams of sugar. Give it a good stir to mix it all together. Now, slide in 100 grams of softened butter—oh, don’t forget this part! Work it with your fingers or use a pastry cutter until it looks all crumbly, like little beach sand. Then, crack that egg in, mix it up until it forms a nice, slightly sticky dough… you got this!

Layering Time

Now here comes the fun part! Take about two-thirds of that dough and press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared dish. Really push it down… get it nice and compact. Next, spread a generous layer of your jam over the dough—don’t be shy, it’s the star of the show! Then, crumble the remaining dough over that glorious jam layer… it doesn’t have to be perfect, a little rustic is totally fine—you’re going for a little texture here. Lastly, sprinkle those crushed peanuts on top for that crunch. Yum.

Baking Bliss

Pop that dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 25 to 30 minutes… or until the top is looking golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing, just wait! Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool completely before slicing it into squares. Patience is a virtue, right?

Good to Know

• Experiment with jam flavors—peach or apricot is also nice.
• If you don’t have peanuts, try almonds or even walnuts instead!
• These bars stay fresh for a few days, but let’s be honest—they probably won’t last that long!

Serving Ideas

• Perfect with a cup of tea or coffee for that afternoon pick-me-up.

Top Tricks

• For an extra touch, add a pinch of salt to the peanut butter—trust me, it elevates that flavor!

Frequently Asked Questions

What fruits pair best with peanut butter?

Fruits like bananas and apples are great, but honestly, any fruit is good! Just stick with what you love. Raspberry and strawberry jams are classic for a reason!

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter brings a lovely texture and we all need some crunch in our lives… right?

How do I store these bars?

Best in an airtight container at room temp for about three days. If they’re going longer, pop them in the fridge.

Can I freeze them?

Yep! Just wrap them well, and they can hang out in the freezer for a month or two. Thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to munch!

Conclusion

So, there you have it! These peanut butter and jam bars are seriously mouthwatering and super simple to whip up. Trust me, whether it’s for a gathering or just a cozy night at home, they’re bound to be a hit!

More Recipes Suggestions

Chocolate Hazelnut Spread Bars

Substitute jam with chocolate hazelnut spread—oh wow, what a treat! That combo is just divine.

Fruit and Nut Energy Bars

For a healthier vibe, throw in some dried fruits and nuts. Great for snacking on-the-go!

Coconut Almond Delight

How about mixing shredded coconut with almond butter instead? Total tropical vibes with your choice of jam.

Maple Pecan Squares

Switch in maple syrup for the jam… oh my gosh, so comforting and scrumptious.

Berry Bliss Bars

Try those berry preserves, they are vibrant and delicious for a light dessert. Perfect for picnics, too!