Ina Garten’s Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars are a nostalgic treat that elevates the classic sandwich into a rich and satisfying dessert. These bars combine a buttery peanut butter crust, a layer of fruity jam, and a crumbly topping for the perfect sweet and salty bite.

What are Ina Garten Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars?

Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars are dessert bars made with a peanut butter shortbread crust, layered with jelly or jam, and topped with more crumbly peanut butter dough and chopped peanuts. Ina Garten’s recipe adds her signature touch of elegance and balance, making these bars a hit with kids and adults alike.

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Reasons to Try Ina Garten Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

Classic flavors: Combines the comforting taste of peanut butter and jelly in a new way.
Perfect for all ages: Loved by kids and adults alike.
Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
Customizable: Use your favorite jelly or jam flavor.
Ideal for sharing: Great for potlucks, lunchboxes, or parties.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 cups creamy peanut butter (not natural or freshly ground)
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 1/2 cups strawberry jelly or your favorite flavor of jam
2/3 cup salted peanuts, roughly chopped

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper, leaving overhangs for easy removal.
Cream the butter and sugar: In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the softened butter and sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Add the wet ingredients: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Mix in the peanut butter: Add the peanut butter and mix until smooth and well incorporated.

Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients

Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Incorporate the dry mixture: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

Press the dough: Spread about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish, pressing it down to create an even layer.
Add the jelly: Spread the jelly or jam over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent it from seeping out.
Crumble the topping: Drop small pieces of the remaining dough over the jelly layer, leaving some of the jelly visible. Sprinkle the chopped peanuts evenly on top.

Step 4: Bake the Bars

Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the jelly is bubbling slightly.
Cool: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment overhang.

Step 5: Serve

Slice and serve: Cut into squares or rectangles and serve.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

Serve with milk: A glass of cold milk pairs perfectly with the sweet and salty bars.
Add coffee: Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
Top with ice cream: Warm the bars slightly and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Include fruit: Serve alongside fresh strawberries or grapes for a fruity contrast.
Pack for snacks: These bars are ideal for lunchboxes or on-the-go treats.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

Use creamy peanut butter: Avoid natural peanut butter, as it can separate and affect the texture of the bars.
Choose high-quality jam: Use a jam or jelly with a bold flavor to balance the richness of the peanut butter.
Cool completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts.
Line the pan: Use parchment paper with overhangs to make removing the bars easy.
Store properly: Store in an airtight container to keep the bars fresh.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

Change the jelly flavor: Try grape, raspberry, or apricot jam for variety.
Add chocolate chips: Sprinkle chocolate chips over the jelly for an extra layer of indulgence.
Make them crunchy: Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
Use almond butter: Substitute peanut butter with almond butter for a different nutty flavor.
Make mini bars: Cut into smaller pieces for bite-sized treats.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

Store at room temperature: Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate for longer storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Freeze for later: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter for Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars?

Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a bit of texture in the bars. It adds an extra crunch that complements the soft jam layer.

What type of jelly or jam is best for Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars?

Any flavor of jelly or jam can work, but strawberry, grape, or raspberry are the most popular choices. Use a high-quality jam for the best flavor.

How do I store Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I make Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the other ingredients, like peanut butter and jelly, are also gluten-free.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars are a delicious, nostalgic treat that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing. With their rich peanut butter base, fruity jam layer, and crunchy topping, these bars are sure to become a favorite. Whip up a batch for your next gathering or simply to enjoy at home!

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