If you love classic comfort food with a fun twist, this Peanut Butter and Jelly Banana Bread Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Imagine the rich, moist texture of banana bread infused with creamy peanut butter and bursting with swirls of raspberry preserves—that perfect combo you grew up loving, baked into a loaf that’s just as nostalgic as it is delicious. This recipe balances sweet, nutty, and fruity flavors in such an inviting way that every bite feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, snack time, or a cozy dessert, this Banana Bread Recipe will have you coming back for seconds and maybe even thirds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A shiny silver metal bowl filled with light tan batter that has a thick, smooth texture with small lumps inside, held above a white marbled surface. A metal whisk with a black handle rests inside the bowl, partially buried in the batter. The batter fills most of the bowl, showing creamy, swirled folds where it has been mixed. The lighting highlights the shiny steel and the creamy surface of the batter. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Peanut Butter and Jelly Banana Bread Recipe plays a starring role, and together they create a loaf that’s irresistibly moist, flavorful, and filled with delightful textures. Let’s break down why each one is essential in crafting this masterpiece.

2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure and the perfect crumb to the bread.
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the bread rise light and fluffy.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the bananas to give a tender texture and boost rise.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
2 eggs (lightly beaten): Binds ingredients and adds richness for a tender bite.
1 1/2 cups mashed bananas: Brings natural sweetness and moisture for that iconic banana bread taste.
1 cup brown sugar: Adds warmth and depth of flavor with its molasses notes.
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: For luscious creaminess and that signature nutty flair.
1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread ultra-moist without overpowering flavors.
1/2 cup dry roasted peanuts (chopped): Delivers crunch and enhances the peanut flavor profile.
1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons raspberry preserves: The star jelly component that creates sweet, tart swirls and a gorgeous glaze on top.

How to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350°F. Then, get a 9x5x3-inch loaf pan ready by lining it with parchment paper and lightly spraying with nonstick cooking spray. This prep makes sure your beautiful loaf will slide out effortlessly once it’s baked and cooled.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This dry mix will be the foundation of your bread’s texture and rise. Give it a good whisk to evenly distribute these leavening agents so every slice bakes perfectly.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly and add the mashed bananas, brown sugar, creamy peanut butter, and vegetable oil. Mixing these wet ingredients thoroughly helps develop a smooth batter with rich, cohesive flavors that shine through in every bite.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mix until just combined—don’t overmix or you might lose that tender texture. Then, fold in the chopped dry roasted peanuts to sprinkle in a burst of crunch and deepen the peanut butter goodness.

Step 5: Layering the Batter with Raspberry Preserves

Pour half of the batter into your prepared pan. Dollop 1/4 cup of raspberry preserves over the batter in blobs. Use a butter knife to swirl these preserves gently into the batter, creating beautiful marbled pockets of sweet tartness. Next, pour the remaining batter on top, repeat the dollops of preserves, and swirl again. This layering is what transforms humble banana bread into an unforgettable Peanut Butter and Jelly Banana Bread Recipe.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake the loaf for about 60 to 70 minutes, or until a tester comes out clean from the center. This step ensures the bread is fully cooked but still wonderfully moist. Once out of the oven, let the bread cool completely to set the swirls and make slicing easier.

Step 7: Finish with a Raspberry Drizzle

Microwave the remaining 2 tablespoons of raspberry preserves until melted—about 15 to 20 seconds—and drizzle over the cooled bread for a glossy, fruity finish. This extra touch adds a pop of color and a hint of shine that makes this bread feel extra special.

How to Serve Peanut Butter and Jelly Banana Bread Recipe

Two slices of light brown bread with a soft texture are stacked on a wooden surface. The bottom and top edges of the bread show glossy dark red jam oozing out, creating a shiny contrast against the bread’s matte crumb. In the background, a white bowl with a spoon inside sits on a white marbled surface, blurred to keep the focus on the bread. The lighting is natural, highlighting the moist look of the jam and the crumb’s small air bubbles. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of powdered sugar is a simple yet elegant way to finish this bread. For a nutty flair, add crushed roasted peanuts on top of the raspberry drizzle before serving. Fresh raspberries or even a dollop of whipped cream can elevate the presentation and taste for any occasion.

Side Dishes

This Peanut Butter and Jelly Banana Bread Recipe pairs beautifully with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea. For a heartier snack, a side of yogurt or fresh fruit salad complements the rich flavors perfectly while keeping the meal balanced and fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice and lightly toast your banana bread for a crunchy contrast, then add a smear of extra peanut butter or jam for the ultimate indulgence. You can also cut the bread into smaller pieces and serve as a part of a brunch spread—your guests will love the familiar flavors in a new, bakery-worthy form.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. This will preserve the delightful texture and prevent the loaf from drying out.

Freezing

To enjoy the Peanut Butter and Jelly Banana Bread Recipe later, slice and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. This way, you can thaw a single slice whenever a craving strikes without committing to the whole loaf.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast them to bring back that fresh-baked warmth and highlight the melty peanut butter swirls and preserves. It’s the perfect way to enjoy it like it just came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add an extra layer of texture, which can complement the chopped peanuts nicely. Just be sure to mix well so the batter stays uniform.

What type of bananas should I use?

Overripe bananas with lots of brown spots are ideal because they are the sweetest and easiest to mash, ensuring your bread is moist and flavorful.

Can I substitute raspberry preserves with another flavor?

Yes! Strawberry, blackberry, or even apricot preserves work wonderfully and give a slightly different but equally delicious twist on the classic peanut butter and jelly combo.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Replacing the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum usually does the trick. Just be sure to test the batter for consistency since gluten-free flours can vary.

How long does the bread stay fresh?

Stored properly, this peanut butter and jelly banana bread will remain fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature and about a week if refrigerated.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly comforting about a peanut butter and jelly twist on a classic banana bread, and this Peanut Butter and Jelly Banana Bread Recipe captures that magic perfectly. It’s simple enough to whip up any day but impressive enough to share with friends and family. Trust me, once you make this, it will quickly become a staple in your baking repertoire—sweet, nutty, fruity, and utterly delicious every time!