Peanut Butter & Jelly Muffins

Introduction

Peanut Butter & Jelly Muffins are your ticket to enjoying the beloved flavors of a classic PB&J sandwich in a warm, fluffy, and irresistibly delicious form! These soft, nutty muffins have a rich peanut butter base, complemented by a sweet, gooey surprise of jelly in the center. Each bite is the perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and comforting flavors, making them an instant favorite for kids and adults alike.

I remember the first time I baked these for a weekend brunch—the aroma of peanut butter filled the kitchen, and the first bite transported me straight back to childhood lunchbox memories. What makes these muffins extra special is their versatility. You can experiment with different jellies—strawberry, grape, or even raspberry—for a unique twist every time. Want to take them up a notch? Add a crunchy peanut topping or a drizzle of warm peanut butter for an extra indulgent touch.

Best of all, these muffins are easy to make with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. Whether you’re baking a batch for a fun breakfast, a kid-friendly snack, or a bake sale hit, Peanut Butter & Jelly Muffins are guaranteed to spread joy with every bite!

Perfect for:

• Breakfast on the go
• Lunchbox treats
• Bake sales
• Kid-friendly snacks
• Peanut butter lovers

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter & Jelly Muffins

Here’s why Peanut Butter & Jelly Muffins will become your new favorite:

• Soft and Moist Texture: The peanut butter keeps these muffins tender and rich.
• Classic PB&J Flavor: A nostalgic combination of creamy peanut butter and fruity jelly makes every bite delightful.
• Perfectly Sweetened: Just the right amount of sweetness without being overpowering.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and steps make these muffins quick and hassle-free.
• Customizable: Use your favorite type of peanut butter and jelly to tailor the flavor to your preference.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
• Servings: 12 muffins
• Calories per serving: Approximately 200-250 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 6g, Carbs: 28g, Fat: 10g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Peanut Butter & Jelly Muffins:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup jelly or jam (strawberry, grape, or your favorite flavor)

Ingredient Highlights

• Peanut Butter: Adds a rich, nutty flavor and keeps the muffins moist.
• Jelly or Jam: Provides a fruity contrast to the peanut butter, creating the perfect PB&J taste.
• Brown Sugar: Enhances moisture and adds a slight caramel-like sweetness.
• Melted Butter: Gives the muffins a soft, tender texture.
• Milk: Ensures a smooth batter and helps keep the muffins moist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Peanut Butter & Jelly Muffins:

Prepare the Batter:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease with cooking spray.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Incorporate the Milk: Gradually add the milk, mixing until fully combined.
6. Mix in the Dry Ingredients: Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Fill and Bake the Muffins:

7. Fill the Muffin Cups: Spoon a tablespoon of batter into each muffin cup.
8. Add the Jelly: Place a teaspoon of jelly or jam in the center of each muffin.
9. Top with More Batter: Cover the jelly with another tablespoon of batter, ensuring it’s fully enclosed.
10. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the batter portion (not the jelly) comes out clean.
11. Cool: Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Peanut Butter & Jelly Muffins

Peanut Butter & Jelly Muffins can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:

• Classic Style – Serve warm with a glass of cold milk.
• Butter Spread – Slice in half and spread with butter or extra peanut butter.
• Ice Cream Pairing – Serve with a scoop of vanilla or peanut butter ice cream.
• Drizzled Delight – Drizzle with melted peanut butter and jelly on top.
• French Toast Muffins – Slice, dip in egg mixture, and pan-fry for a French toast twist.
• Whipped Cream Topping – Add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts.
• Breakfast Parfait – Crumble into a yogurt parfait with fresh berries.
• Mini Sandwiches – Slice in half and add more jelly or peanut butter between.
• Chocolate Dipped – Dip the tops in melted chocolate for extra indulgence.
• Grilled Muffin – Toast lightly with butter on a skillet for a crispy exterior.

Additional Tips for Peanut Butter & Jelly Muffins

Here are some tips to ensure your Peanut Butter & Jelly Muffins turn out perfectly:

• Use Creamy Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter works best for a smooth, well-balanced texture. Avoid natural peanut butter, as it can separate.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to dense muffins, so mix just until combined.
• Use a Piping Bag for Jelly: If your jelly is too thick, use a piping bag or spoon it into a small zip-top bag, snip the corner, and squeeze it into the batter.
• Experiment with Different Jellies: Try raspberry, apricot, or even a mix of flavors for a fun twist.
• Make Them Crunchy: Sprinkle chopped peanuts or a streusel topping on top before baking for extra texture.
• Let Them Cool: Allow muffins to cool before eating, as the jelly center can be very hot right out of the oven.
• Store Properly: Keep muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Recipe Variations for Peanut Butter & Jelly Muffins

Here are 10 variations you can try for Peanut Butter & Jelly Muffins:

• Almond Butter & Jelly Muffins: Swap peanut butter for almond butter for a different nutty flavor.
• Chunky Peanut Butter Muffins: Use chunky peanut butter for added texture.
• Peanut Butter & Chocolate Muffins: Replace the jelly with chocolate chips for a peanut butter cup-inspired muffin.
• Honey Peanut Butter Muffins: Use honey instead of sugar for a natural sweetness.
• Banana Peanut Butter Muffins: Add mashed bananas for a PB & banana twist.
• Gluten-Free PB&J Muffins: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Vegan PB&J Muffins: Use plant-based milk, flax eggs, and dairy-free butter for a vegan variation.
• PB&J Swirl Muffins: Swirl the jelly into the batter instead of placing it in the center for a marbled effect.
• Cinnamon PB&J Muffins: Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Oatmeal PB&J Muffins: Mix in ½ cup of oats for extra fiber and a hearty texture.

Freezing and Storage for Peanut Butter & Jelly Muffins

• Freezing: Place cooled muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

Special Equipment for Peanut Butter & Jelly Muffins

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Peanut Butter & Jelly Muffins easier:

• Muffin Tin: Standard 12-cup muffin tin for even baking.
• Muffin Liners or Cooking Spray: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Mixing Bowls: Various sizes for wet and dry ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements.
• Whisk or Hand Mixer: Helps blend wet ingredients smoothly.
• Piping Bag or Small Spoon: Makes adding jelly easier and less messy.
• Cooling Rack: Allows muffins to cool evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions for Peanut Butter & Jelly Muffins

1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
   Yes, but it will change the texture slightly.
2. What’s the best jelly for these muffins?
   Any type works, but strawberry and grape are classic choices.
3. Can I freeze the muffins?
   Yes, they freeze well for up to 3 months.
4. Can I make mini muffins?
   Yes, just reduce the baking time to 12-15 minutes.
5. Can I make them dairy-free?
   Yes, use plant-based milk and dairy-free butter.

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Conclusion

Peanut Butter & Jelly Muffins are a delightful way to bring the nostalgia of a classic PB&J sandwich into a soft, fluffy treat. With their rich peanut butter flavor and sweet, fruity filling, these muffins are a perfect balance of comfort and indulgence. Enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a fun dessert—there’s no wrong time for PB&J!

This recipe is simple to make and easy to customize, making it ideal for busy mornings, lunchboxes, or casual get-togethers. Whether you’re sharing with loved ones or savoring one yourself, these muffins are bound to become a household favorite.

I’d love to see your Peanut Butter & Jelly Muffins! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!