A Sweet Twist on a Classic Favorite

Imagine taking the comforting, nostalgic flavors of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and transforming them into a warm, moist, and flavorful loaf of banana bread. Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread does just that—combining the creamy richness of peanut butter, the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, and the fruity zing of jelly in a single, irresistible treat.

This dessert evokes fond memories of childhood lunches while offering a sophisticated twist that adults will also love. The marbled jelly swirls create not only visual appeal but also bursts of flavor that punctuate each slice. It’s a versatile recipe that works perfectly for breakfast with a cup of coffee, as an afternoon snack, or even as a simple, comforting dessert.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to make this delicious loaf from scratch. From selecting the ripest bananas to achieving the perfect swirl of jelly, this step-by-step tutorial ensures your banana bread comes out moist, flavorful, and visually stunning every time. Whether you’re baking for your family, a weekend brunch, or a gift for a friend, this Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread

This banana bread combines the best of sweet and savory flavors. The peanut butter lends richness and a nutty depth, while ripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, creating a tender crumb. Swirls of jelly or jam introduce fruity notes and a pop of color that makes each slice visually striking.

Beyond flavor, the texture is equally delightful. The loaf is moist, soft, and slightly dense, with occasional crunchy bites if you include chopped peanuts. It’s versatile enough to serve in various settings: as a quick breakfast, a satisfying afternoon snack, or a centerpiece for a festive brunch. The familiar flavors of PB&J are elevated into a comforting, homemade treat, making it a recipe that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Essential Ingredients & Their Roles

Bananas: Overripe bananas are essential for natural sweetness, moisture, and flavor depth. The more spotted they are, the sweeter and more aromatic your bread will be.

Peanut Butter: Provides creamy richness and a nutty undertone. Opt for creamy peanut butter to maintain a smooth, uniform texture in the batter.

Jelly or Jam: Adds fruity contrast and visual appeal. Raspberry, strawberry, or grape jelly are classic choices. Swirled into the batter, it creates a marbled effect that looks beautiful in each slice.

Flour & Leavening Agents: All-purpose flour forms the bread’s structure, while baking soda helps it rise, creating a tender yet stable loaf. Salt enhances the flavors and balances sweetness.

Sweeteners: Granulated sugar, brown sugar, or a combination can enhance sweetness without overpowering the natural banana flavor.

Optional Add-ins: Chopped peanuts or walnuts provide crunch, while a touch of vanilla extract elevates aroma and complexity. Chocolate chips can also be added for an extra indulgent twist.

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and appearance, ensuring your loaf is moist, flavorful, and visually appealing.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking soda, and 1/4 tsp salt. Set aside.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, mash 3–4 overripe bananas. Stir in 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter, 2 large eggs, and 1/2 cup sugar (or your preferred sweetener). Mix until smooth and combined.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb.
Add-ins: Fold in 1/4 cup chopped peanuts if desired for extra texture.
Layering Jelly: Pour half the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Dollop 1/4 cup jelly over the top, then gently swirl with a knife. Add the remaining batter and swirl with another 1/4 cup jelly to create a marbled pattern.
Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool: Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This ensures it sets properly and slices neatly.

Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter & Jelly Banana Bread

Banana Ripeness: Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture. Under-ripe bananas can result in a denser, less flavorful loaf.

Peanut Butter Consistency: Creamy peanut butter blends more smoothly than chunky varieties, creating an even texture throughout the bread.

Jelly Choice: Choose your favorite flavor. Raspberry and strawberry provide classic PB&J tastes, but grape or blueberry can be interesting alternatives.

Swirling Technique: Use a butter knife or skewer to gently swirl the jelly into the batter. Avoid overmixing to maintain a marbled effect.

Storage: Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze slices for up to 2 months.

Optional Additions: Nuts, chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon can enhance flavor and texture. Experiment to make it your own signature loaf.