Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars are a nostalgic twist on the classic PB&J sandwich, transformed into a soft, chewy dessert bar. A rich peanut butter cookie base is layered with sweet jam and topped with crumbled dough and chopped peanuts for texture. Baked until golden and sliceable, these bars deliver comforting flavors in an easy, shareable form.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Flavor, New Format – All the beloved PB&J taste in a dessert bar.
• Soft and Chewy Texture – Buttery peanut butter base stays tender.
• Easy to Make – Simple mixing method with no complicated steps.
• Perfect for Sharing – Yields 16 bars ideal for gatherings or bake sales.
• Customizable Jam Options – Use grape, strawberry, raspberry, or your favorite.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Stays fresh for several days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Peanut Butter Base

• 1 cup (258 g) crunchy peanut butter – Provides structure, flavor, and added texture.
• ¾ cup (165 g) packed light brown sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture.
• ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened – Creates richness and soft crumb.
• 1 large egg, room temperature – Binds ingredients and provides structure.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances sweetness and depth.

Dry Ingredients

• 1¾ cups (227 g) all-purpose flour – Provides structure and stability.
• ¾ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances peanut flavor.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder – Offers slight lift for a tender texture.

Filling and Topping

• ¾ cup (255 g) grape jelly or jam (or flavor of choice) – Adds fruity sweetness and contrast.
• ½ cup (73 g) salted peanuts, coarsely chopped – Adds crunch and flavor balance.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with foil, leaving a 1-inch overhang for easy removal. Lightly spray with cooking spray.

Cream the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat together peanut butter, brown sugar, and softened butter until smooth and creamy. Add the egg and mix until fully incorporated. Stir in vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add to the peanut butter mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing.

Form the Base Layer

Press two-thirds of the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to create a firm base.

Add the Jelly Layer

Spread jelly evenly over the peanut butter base, ensuring full coverage to the edges.

Top and Bake

Crumble the remaining dough evenly over the jelly layer. Sprinkle chopped salted peanuts on top. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

Cool and Slice

Allow bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Use the foil overhang to lift out and slice into 16 squares.

Recipe Notes & Tips

• Do Not Overbake – Slightly soft centers firm up as they cool.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensures smooth mixing.
• Spread Jelly Evenly – Prevents uneven layers.
• Cool Fully Before Cutting – Helps achieve clean slices.
• Line Pan Properly – Foil overhang makes removal easy.
• Adjust Sweetness – Use low-sugar jam if preferred.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Bake Time: 30–35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 16 bars
• Calories: Approximately 250–300 per bar (estimated)

Perfect Pairings

• Cold Glass of Milk – Classic complement to peanut butter desserts.
• Hot Coffee or Tea – Balances sweetness.
• Vanilla Ice Cream – Turns bars into a plated dessert.
• Fresh Berries – Adds brightness and contrast.

Ideal Occasions

• Bake Sales and Potlucks – Easy to transport and serve.
• After-School Snacks – Kid-friendly and nostalgic.
• Holiday Cookie Platters – Unique addition.
• Weekend Baking Projects – Simple and satisfying.

Storage & Serving Tips

• Store Airtight at Room Temperature – Keeps fresh up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for Firmer Texture – Especially in warmer climates.
• Freeze for Longer Storage – Wrap tightly for up to 2 months.
• Separate Layers with Parchment – Prevents sticking when stacking.

Creative Variations to Try

• Swap the Jam – Use strawberry, raspberry, or mixed berry.
• Add Chocolate Chips – Stir into dough for a PB&J-chocolate twist.
• Use Smooth Peanut Butter – For a less textured base.
• Drizzle with Melted Chocolate – Adds decorative finish and richness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Bars Too Crumbly – Ensure proper measuring of flour.
• Jelly Bleeding Into Base – Spread gently and avoid overmixing layers.
• Too Dry – Check bake time; remove once golden.
• Difficult to Slice – Cool completely before cutting.

Why This Recipe Works

These bars succeed because they use a cookie-style peanut butter base that provides both structure and richness. Brown sugar retains moisture, keeping the bars soft and chewy. The flour and baking powder offer stability without making the texture cakey. Layering jam in the center creates contrast in sweetness and texture, while chopped peanuts add crunch. Baking until just golden ensures a tender crumb. With balanced fats, carbohydrates, and protein from peanut butter, these bars deliver satisfying flavor in each portion.

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars are a nostalgic treat reimagined into an easy-to-make dessert. With chewy peanut butter layers and sweet jam filling, they’re both comforting and crowd-pleasing. Perfect for sharing or making ahead, these bars offer classic flavor with homemade charm.