Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars are a delightful twist on the classic combination of two beloved childhood favorites. These bars combine the creamy richness of peanut butter with the sweet, fruity flavor of jelly, creating a dessert that encapsulates nostalgia and satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup rolled oats
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup creamy peanut butter
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
½ cup jelly or jam of your choice (e.g., grape, strawberry)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, oats, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
In another bowl, mix the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat in the eggs one at a time until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly across the bottom.
Spread the jelly or jam over the batter, leaving a small border around the edges.
Top with the remaining batter, spreading it gently over the jelly layer.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then lift out using the parchment overhang and allow to cool completely on a wire rack before cutting into bars.