As I stand in the kitchen, the aroma of fresh strawberries mixing with creamy peanut butter transports me back to my childhood—when a simple PB&J sandwich felt like the ultimate comfort food. This Peanut Butter Jelly Bread with Strawberry Streusel captures that nostalgia perfectly, transforming those beloved flavors into a moist and tender quick bread that’s equally delightful for breakfast or dessert. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this irresistible loaf that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also nourishes the soul. Plus, the added crunch of the peanut streusel topping elevates the experience to something truly special. Are you ready to dive into a slice of pure joy? Why is Peanut Butter Jelly Bread a Must-Try? Nostalgic flavors: Relive childhood memories with every slice of this delightful bread, capturing the essence of your favorite PB&J sandwich. Quick and easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy mornings or spontaneous dessert cravings. Decadent topping: The peanut streusel adds a satisfying crunch, elevating the texture and flavor experience to new heights. Versatile delights: Substitute strawberries with any fruit of your choice, or add chocolate chips for a delicious twist! Try it with a side of Garlic Butter Shrimp for a fun brunch spread. Perfect for sharing: Bake a loaf to share with family or friends, and let the comforting aroma fill your home, creating a true sense of togetherness. Peanut Butter Jelly Bread Ingredients For the Batter • Brown Sugar (¼ cup) – Adds sweetness and moisture; substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option. • All-Purpose Flour (2 cups + ¼ cup for streusel) – Provides structure; for a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. • Milk (1 cup) – Adds moisture and richness; any milk substitute (e.g., almond milk, oat milk) works perfectly. • Eggs (2) – Provides moisture and helps bind the bread; for vegan, replace with unsweetened applesauce (¼ cup per egg). • Creamy Peanut Butter (¾ cup) – The main flavor component; any nut butter can be used as a substitute. • Baking Soda (½ teaspoon) – Leavening agent that helps the bread rise. • Salt (½ teaspoon) – Enhances flavor. • Chopped Strawberries (1 cup) – Adds freshness and fruitiness; substitute with other berries or fruits. • Strawberry Jam (½ cup) – Adds sweetness and moisture; can use preserves or other fruit jams. For the Streusel Topping • Crushed Peanuts (¼ cup) – Adds crunch; can substitute with any nut or omit for a nut-free version. • Butter (3 tablespoons, melted) – Binds the streusel; use coconut oil for a dairy-free option. • All-Purpose Flour (¼ cup) – Provides the needed texture for the streusel. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peanut Butter Jelly Bread Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, prepare your 9×5 inch loaf pan by greasing it lightly with butter or lining it with parchment paper. This will ensure your Peanut Butter Jelly Bread slips out easily once baked, allowing for a perfectly shaped loaf. Step 2: Make the Streusel Topping In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of brown sugar, ¼ cup of all-purpose flour, and ¼ cup of crushed peanuts. Pour in 3 tablespoons of melted butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Once you have a crumbly texture, place the streusel in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the batter, as this helps it maintain a nice crispiness when baked. Step 3: Prepare the Batter In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of brown sugar, 1 cup of milk, 2 eggs, and ¾ cup of creamy peanut butter until smooth and well combined. Take a moment to enjoy the rich aroma of peanut butter filling the air. This mixture is the heart of your Peanut Butter Jelly Bread, so mix it well to create a creamy base. Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients Gradually add in 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter should remain a bit lumpy for a tender bread, so stop mixing as soon as you see the dry ingredients disappear, showcasing your lovely Peanut Butter Jelly Bread batter. Step 5: Add Fresh Ingredients Next, fold in 1 cup of chopped strawberries gently, ensuring they’re distributed throughout the batter without breaking them down too much. Then, dollop in ½ cup of strawberry jam, swirling it lightly into the mixture for a marbled effect. This step brings exciting bursts of flavor to every slice of your Peanut Butter Jelly Bread. Step 6: Combine & Bake Carefully pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for even baking. Sprinkle the chilled streusel topping evenly over the batter, adding a delightful crunch to the surface. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-75 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out mostly clean, with just a few moist crumbs attached. Step 7: Cooling Time Once baked, remove the Peanut Butter Jelly Bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about an hour. This cooling step is essential, as it helps the bread set and makes it easier to slice. Enjoy the enticing aromas while you wait, and don’t rush this important stage in the process! Step 8: Slice and Serve After cooling completely on a wire rack, your Peanut Butter Jelly Bread is ready to be sliced. For neat pieces, ensure the bread is fully cooled before cutting. Serve warm or at room temperature, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a lovely snack throughout the day! Peanut Butter Jelly Bread Variations Feel free to personalize this delightful recipe with different flavors and textures that suit your taste buds! Berry Mix: Swap strawberries with a mix of blueberries and raspberries for a vibrant burst of color and flavor. This delightful combination will brighten your breakfast table! Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet, melty touch that pairs perfectly with the peanut butter. Each slice will feel like a special treat, tempting you to indulge! Nut-Free: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter to create a nut-free option for those with allergies, while still delivering that rich, creamy experience. Your loved ones will hardly notice the difference! Peachy Keen: Diced peaches can be a delicious substitute for strawberries for a sweeter, summery twist. The juicy pieces will create a lovely contrast with the crunchy streusel topping. Maple Sweetness: Instead of brown sugar, try using maple syrup for natural sweetness that enhances the whole flavor profile. It creates a uniquely comforting taste, reminiscent of cozy mornings spent with family. Cinnamon Spice: Incorporate cinnamon into the batter for a warm, cozy flavor that complements the peanut butter beautifully. A sprinkle on top of the streusel enhances that inviting aroma wafting through your kitchen! Savory Touch: Add bacon bits to the batter for an unexpected savory element that delights the palate. The combination of sweet and salty is irresistible, making it a great brunch option. Coconut Craze: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical twist that adds both texture and flavor to your Peanut Butter Jelly Bread. This delightful addition transports your taste buds to the beach! For a perfect weekend brunch, why not pair a slice of this nostalgic bread with a side of Garlic Butter Shrimp? It’s an exciting way to make your meal even more memorable! What to Serve with Peanut Butter Jelly Bread As the enticing aroma of your freshly baked loaf wafts through the kitchen, it’s time to imagine the perfect companions for this delightful treat. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal berries and citrus adds a refreshing balance to the sweetness, enhancing every bite. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Creamy yogurt layered with granola and berries creates a delightful texture contrast while complementing the bread’s flavors. Chocolate Milkshake: Indulge in a rich, velvety milkshake that brings a chocolatey twist, making for a nostalgic treat that brings back childhood memories. Coffee or Herbal Tea: A warm cup pairs beautifully, allowing the flavors of the peanut butter and strawberry jam to shine through the cozy sips. Honey Butter Spread: A smear of honey butter enhances the already sweet bread, adding an extra layer of comfort that’s simply irresistible. Ice Cream Scoop: Top a warm slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert, creating an unforgettable sweet-and-salty delight. Each pairing is designed to not only complement the flavors of the Peanut Butter Jelly Bread but to also enhance your dining experience, making every meal feel special. Enjoy! Expert Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Jelly Bread Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature for better mixing, creating a smoother batter that bakes evenly. Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold the batter when adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, preventing that delightful lightness in your Peanut Butter Jelly Bread. Streusel Crunch: Chill the streusel topping before baking to maintain its crunchiness, ensuring every bite has that delightful texture contrast. Toothpick Test: Use a toothpick to check doneness; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, signaling your loaf is perfectly baked without being overdone. Cooling Time: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing for clean cuts and to maximize flavor development. Enjoy your delicious slice of nostalgia! How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter Jelly Bread Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its softness and flavor. Fridge: If you want it to last longer, refrigerate the bread for up to 1 week; just ensure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent drying out. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the loaf for up to 3 months. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to keep it fresh. Reheating: To enjoy your Peanut Butter Jelly Bread warm, simply thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Make Ahead Options These Peanut Butter Jelly Bread loaves are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine the wet and dry ingredients (but leave out the strawberries and jam for best flavor). Refrigerate the mixed batter in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Additionally, the streusel topping can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, gently fold in the chopped strawberries and dollop in the jam, then proceed with the baking instructions. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious homemade bread with minimal evening hassle, just as tasty as freshly made! Peanut Butter Jelly Bread Recipe FAQs What kind of strawberries should I use for the bread? I recommend using ripe strawberries that are firm yet tender, with a vibrant red color and no dark spots to ensure the best flavor. If fresh strawberries are not available, you can substitute them with frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding them to the batter. How should I store the Peanut Butter Jelly Bread, and how long does it last? Store your Peanut Butter Jelly Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it moist and flavorful. If you wish to extend its shelf life, wrap it tightly and refrigerate for up to 1 week. For longer storage, you can freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Can I freeze the Peanut Butter Jelly Bread? If so, how? Absolutely! To freeze your Peanut Butter Jelly Bread, wait until it’s completely cooled. Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap to protect it from freezer burn, and then place it in a heavy-duty freezer bag or wrap it in aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature for a few hours or overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. What should I do if my bread is too dense? If your Peanut Butter Jelly Bread turns out too dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter or not using fresh baking soda. To avoid this in the future, gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, leaving some lumps—this helps keep the bread light and fluffy. Ensure your baking soda is fresh, as it loses leavening power over time, which could also lead to a denser loaf. Is this Peanut Butter Jelly Bread suitable for people with nut allergies? For those with nut allergies, you can easily adapt this recipe! Simply substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or a soy nut butter to maintain the creamy texture and flavor without the nuts. Additionally, make sure to check all other ingredients to confirm they don’t contain allergens. Always consult with your doctor if you have concerns about allergies. Peanut Butter Jelly Bread: A Nostalgic Homemade Delight This Peanut Butter Jelly Bread captures nostalgic flavors of PB&J in a moist, quick bread—a perfect breakfast or dessert. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes minsCooling Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes mins Servings: 12 slicesCourse: SnacksCuisine: AmericanCalories: 200 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Batter¼ cup Brown Sugar Adds sweetness and moisture; substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option.2 cups All-Purpose Flour Provides structure; for a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.1 cup Milk Any milk substitute works perfectly.2 count Eggs For vegan, replace with unsweetened applesauce (¼ cup per egg).¾ cup Creamy Peanut Butter The main flavor component; any nut butter can be used as a substitute.½ teaspoon Baking Soda Leavening agent that helps the bread rise.½ teaspoon Salt Enhances flavor.1 cup Chopped Strawberries Adds freshness; substitute with other berries or fruits.½ cup Strawberry Jam Adds sweetness and moisture.For the Streusel Topping¼ cup Crushed Peanuts Adds crunch; can substitute with any nut or omit for a nut-free version.3 tablespoons Butter Use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.¼ cup All-Purpose Flour Provides the needed texture for the streusel. Equipment 9x5 inch loaf panMixing bowlswhiskspatulaRefrigerator Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsPreheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan lightly or line it with parchment paper.In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and crushed peanuts. Pour in melted butter and mix until resembling coarse crumbs. Chill the streusel topping.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, milk, eggs, and peanut butter until smooth.Gradually add in all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined.Fold in chopped strawberries and swirl in strawberry jam for a marbled effect.Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, sprinkle streusel topping, and bake for 60-75 minutes.Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about an hour to set.Cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 5gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 1mg NotesUse room temperature ingredients for better mixing and avoid overmixing to maintain lightness. Chill the streusel for crunchiness and allow cooling for best flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
