Peanut Butter and Jelly Crumble Bars
There’s something incredibly nostalgic about the combination of peanut butter and jelly. It evokes memories of lunchboxes, picnics, and carefree afternoons. Today, we’re transforming that beloved duo into a delectable dessert with these Peanut Butter and Jelly Crumble Bars. They are not just a treat; they are a delightful experience packed with flavor and texture. These bars feature a rich, buttery crust, a creamy peanut butter filling, and a crumbly topping that comes together beautifully. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or indulging in a sweet afternoon snack, these bars are sure to impress!
What Makes This Recipe Special
What sets these Peanut Butter and Jelly Crumble Bars apart is their perfect balance of flavors and textures. The creamy peanut butter melds seamlessly with the sweet and slightly tart jelly, all embraced by a buttery crumble that adds a delightful crunch. Each bite brings a delightful contrast of creamy, sweet, and nutty, making it hard to resist going back for more. Plus, they are effortless to make, which means you can whip up a batch in no time!
Ingredient Breakdown
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted: This provides the rich base for the crust and crumble.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter, melted: Adds creaminess and that unmistakable peanut flavor.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder, helping the bars hold together perfectly.
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed: Gives the bars a soft, chewy texture with a hint of caramel flavor.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the crust and crumble layer.
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: For the crumble topping, providing richness and texture.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the crumble topping, adding texture.
- 1 cup old-fashioned whole-rolled oats: Adds heartiness and chewiness; do not substitute with quick-cook oats.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the crumble topping.
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, packed: Adds depth to the crumble topping.
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste: Enhances the flavors within the crumble.
- One 9-ounce jar Smucker’s Fruit and Honey Strawberry Fruit Spread: The fruity layer that brings the peanut butter and jelly flavor to life.
What You’ll Need (Gear)
- Mixing bowls: For combining the ingredients efficiently.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accuracy in your ingredients.
- Spatula: Perfect for folding ingredients and spreading the mixture evenly.
- Baking pan (9×9 inch): Ideal size for these bars, ensuring they bake evenly.
- Parchment paper: For easy removal of the bars from the pan.
- Oven mitts: Safety first when handling hot items.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Crumble Bars in Steps
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your bars bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides to make it easy to lift the bars out later. This will also help prevent sticking.
Step 3: Make the Peanut Butter Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, melted peanut butter, egg, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add in the all-purpose flour and salt. Stir until just combined, taking care not to overmix.
Step 5: Spread the Base in the Pan
Using a spatula, evenly spread the peanut butter mixture into the prepared pan. This will serve as the foundation for your bars.
Step 6: Layer the Jelly
Spread the Smucker’s Fruit and Honey Strawberry Fruit Spread evenly over the peanut butter layer. Make sure to cover it nicely for the best flavor in every bite.
Step 7: Prepare the Crumble Topping
In another bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, old-fashioned oats, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and salt. Mix until crumbly and well combined.
Step 8: Add the Crumble Topping
Evenly sprinkle the crumble mixture over the jelly layer, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
Step 9: Bake the Bars
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crumble is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 10: Cool and Cut
Once done, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out and cut them into squares.
Substitutions by Category
- Butter: Can be replaced with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Peanut Butter: Almond butter or sun butter can be used for different flavors.
- Egg: Substitute with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan option.
- Granulated Sugar: Coconut sugar can be used for a less processed alternative.
- Fruit Spread: Any flavor of fruit preserves or jam can be substituted to suit your taste.
Easy-to-Miss Gotchas
- Make sure to use creamy peanut butter to achieve the right texture.
- Don’t substitute quick-cooking oats; they will affect the crumb texture.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean edges.
- Check the jelly layer while spreading to avoid a messy overflow during baking.
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
These Peanut Butter and Jelly Crumble Bars store beautifully! Let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container for up to a week in the refrigerator. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze well for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for optimal freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back their deliciousness.
FAQ
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter for added texture, but it may alter the smoothness of the filling slightly.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the crumble topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these bars gluten-free while maintaining their delicious taste.
What can I serve with these bars?
These bars are delightful on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Healthy-ish Favorites
Ready to Cook?
Now that you have all the details to create these delightful Peanut Butter and Jelly Crumble Bars, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking! Whether you’re looking for a sweet snack or a crowd-pleasing dessert, these bars are sure to be a hit. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s get started on this delicious journey! Enjoy the process and, most importantly, enjoy every bite of these scrumptious bars!
Peanut Butter and Jelly Crumble Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, melted peanut butter, egg, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add in the all-purpose flour and salt. Stir until just combined.
- Using a spatula, evenly spread the peanut butter mixture into the prepared pan.
- Spread the Smucker’s Fruit and Honey Strawberry Fruit Spread evenly over the peanut butter layer.
- In another bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, old-fashioned oats, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and salt. Mix until crumbly.
- Evenly sprinkle the crumble mixture over the jelly layer.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Once done, let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
Notes
- Use creamy peanut butter for the best texture.
- Do not substitute quick-cooking oats; they will affect the texture.
- Cool completely before cutting for clean edges.
