18 Creative Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches Recipes Delicious

Posted on March 11, 2025

Who says PB&J has to be boring? Whether you’re craving a quick lunch, a nostalgic snack, or a fun twist on a classic, we’ve got you covered with 18 Creative Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches that are anything but ordinary. From gooey grilled masterpieces to fresh seasonal spins, these recipes will make you fall in love with this comfort food all over again. Let’s get stacking!

Grilled Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich

Grilled Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich

This childhood classic gets a crispy, buttery upgrade—perfect for when you want nostalgia with a gourmet twist.

Ingredients:

  • 2 slices white or whole wheat sandwich bread
  • 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
  • 1 tbsp strawberry or grape jelly
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

Instructions:

  1. Spread 2 tbsp peanut butter on one slice of bread and 1 tbsp jelly on the other. Press together to form a sandwich.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Spread 1 tbsp butter evenly on one side of the sandwich.
  3. Place the sandwich buttered-side down in the skillet. Butter the top side while cooking.
  4. Grill for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until golden brown and the peanut butter is slightly melted.

The magic? The grill gives the sandwich a crispy shell while keeping the filling gooey—like a PB&J meets grilled cheese.

Tip: For extra crunch, use slightly stale bread—it holds up better to grilling!

Peanut Butter and Jelly Stuffed French Toast

Peanut Butter and Jelly Stuffed French Toast

Take your breakfast game to the next level with this decadent twist on a classic—stuffed with creamy peanut butter and sweet jelly, then cooked to golden perfection.

Ingredients:

  • 4 slices thick-cut brioche or challah bread (about 1 inch thick)
  • 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/4 cup strawberry or grape jelly
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • Powdered sugar or maple syrup, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Spread 1 tbsp peanut butter and 1 tbsp jelly onto each of two bread slices. Top with the remaining slices to make two sandwiches, pressing gently to seal.
  2. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and pinch of salt until smooth.
  3. Melt 1 tbsp butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Dip one sandwich into the egg mixture, letting it soak for 10 seconds per side. Transfer to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crisp. Repeat with the remaining 1 tbsp butter and second sandwich.
  4. Slice diagonally and dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup if desired.

The crispy exterior gives way to a gooey, nostalgic PB&J center—perfect for lazy weekend brunches when you want to treat yourself.

Tip: For extra crunch, sprinkle the cooked French toast with crushed peanuts before serving.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Pancake Sandwich

Peanut Butter and Jelly Pancake Sandwich

Who says PB&J is just for lunch? Flip the script with these fluffy pancake sandwiches that turn a classic into a breakfast (or dessert!) dream.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup buttermilk
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter, plus extra for cooking
  • 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 tbsp strawberry jelly (or your favorite flavor)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, and 1/4 tsp salt.
  2. In another bowl, mix 3/4 cup buttermilk, 1 large egg, and 2 tbsp melted butter. Pour into dry ingredients and stir until just combined (small lumps are okay).
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-low and lightly grease with butter. Pour 1/4 cup batter per pancake. Cook until bubbles form on top and edges look set (about 2 minutes), then flip and cook 1 more minute. Repeat to make 4 pancakes.
  4. Spread 2 tbsp peanut butter on two pancakes and 2 tbsp jelly on the other two. Press pairs together to form sandwiches.

The warm pancakes melt the peanut butter just enough to make every bite oozy and nostalgic—plus, no syrup required!

Tip: For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped peanuts between the layers before assembling.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Waffle Sandwich

Peanut Butter and Jelly Waffle Sandwich

Peanut Butter and Jelly Waffle Sandwich

Who says PB&J is just for bread? This waffle sandwich turns a childhood favorite into a crispy, melty breakfast (or snack) you’ll crave daily.

Ingredients:

  • 2 frozen waffles (or homemade, toasted until crisp)
  • 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
  • 1 tbsp strawberry jam (or your favorite flavor)
  • 1 tsp butter, softened
  • Pinch of flaky sea salt (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Toast the waffles until golden and crisp, either in a toaster or a 350°F oven for 5 minutes.
  2. Spread 1 tbsp peanut butter evenly on one waffle, then drizzle with 1 tbsp jam. Sprinkle with a pinch of flaky salt if using.
  3. Top with the second waffle and lightly butter the outside of both waffles (this helps them crisp up!).
  4. Heat a skillet over medium-low and cook the sandwich for 2–3 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the filling is warm and the exterior is golden.

The magic here? The waffle’s nooks crisp into buttery pockets while the peanut butter gets just melty enough—like a grilled cheese, but sweeter.

Tip: For extra crunch, swap the jam for sliced strawberries tossed with a teaspoon of sugar.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Roll-Ups

Peanut Butter and Jelly Roll-Ups

These playful roll-ups turn a lunchbox classic into a no-fuss, no-mess snack that kids (and adults!) will love.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
  • 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 tbsp strawberry jelly (or grape, for nostalgia!)
  • 1/2 tsp honey
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions:

  1. Lay tortillas flat on a cutting board. Warm slightly in the microwave for 10 seconds if stiff.
  2. Spread 2 tbsp peanut butter evenly over each tortilla, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
  3. Drizzle 1 tbsp jelly per tortilla in a zigzag pattern over the peanut butter, then sprinkle each with 1/8 tsp cinnamon.
  4. Starting at one edge, tightly roll each tortilla into a log. Let rest seam-side down for 2 minutes to set.
  5. Slice into 1-inch pinwheels with a serrated knife, wiping the blade between cuts for clean edges.

The cinnamon-honey twist balances the sweetness, while the roll-up shape makes these perfect for picnics or after-school snacks.

Tip: For extra crunch, sprinkle crushed peanuts over the peanut butter before rolling.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Sushi Rolls

Peanut Butter and Jelly Sushi Rolls

Who says sushi has to be savory? These playful rolls turn a lunchbox classic into a fun, no-bake treat that kids (and adults!) will love.

Ingredients:

  • 4 slices soft white sandwich bread, crusts removed
  • 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 tbsp strawberry jelly (or grape, for a classic twist)
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1/4 cup crispy rice cereal

Instructions:

  1. Flatten each bread slice with a rolling pin until about 1/8-inch thick.
  2. Spread 1 tbsp peanut butter evenly over each slice, leaving a 1/2-inch border at one short end.
  3. Drizzle 1/2 tbsp honey lengthwise down the center of the peanut butter, then spoon 1/2 tbsp jelly parallel to the honey.
  4. Sprinkle 1 tbsp rice cereal over each slice, gently pressing to adhere.
  5. Starting from the jelly side, tightly roll each slice into a log, sealing the bare edge with a dab of peanut butter.
  6. Slice each log into 4-5 bite-sized “sushi” pieces and serve immediately.

The crunch of rice cereal mimics traditional sushi texture, while the honey adds a subtle floral note to balance the sweet-tangy jelly. Tip: For neater slices, chill rolls for 10 minutes before cutting with a serrated knife.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Banana Sandwich

Peanut Butter and Jelly Banana Sandwich

This twist on a childhood classic adds creamy peanut butter, sweet jelly, and fresh banana slices for a nostalgic yet upgraded sandwich that’s perfect for lunch or a quick snack.

Ingredients:

  • 2 slices soft whole wheat or white bread
  • 2 tbsp smooth peanut butter
  • 1 tbsp strawberry or grape jelly
  • 1 small banana, thinly sliced
  • 1 tsp honey (optional)
  • Pinch of cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Toast the bread lightly if desired for extra crunch.
  2. Spread 2 tbsp peanut butter evenly on one slice of bread, then layer with banana slices.
  3. Drizzle with 1 tsp honey (if using) and sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon for warmth.
  4. Spread 1 tbsp jelly on the other slice of bread, then press together gently to seal.
  5. Slice diagonally and serve immediately.

The honey and cinnamon add a cozy depth to the classic combo, while the banana keeps it fresh and filling. Tip: For a fun variation, grill the sandwich in a buttered pan for a melty, crispy upgrade!

Peanut Butter and Jelly Bagel Sandwich

Peanut Butter and Jelly Bagel Sandwich

This twist on a classic PB&J brings extra chew and toasty warmth—perfect for breakfast or an easy snack.

Ingredients:

  • 1 plain or whole wheat bagel, sliced in half
  • 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
  • 1 tbsp strawberry or grape jelly
  • 1 tsp honey (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions:

  1. Toast the bagel halves in a toaster or oven at 375°F for 4–5 minutes until lightly crisp.
  2. Spread 1 tbsp peanut butter evenly on each toasted bagel half.
  3. Dollop 1/2 tbsp jelly onto one half, then drizzle with 1/2 tsp honey (if using) and sprinkle with 1/4 tsp cinnamon.
  4. Press the halves together, slice diagonally, and serve immediately.

The cinnamon and honey add a cozy depth, while the toasty bagel keeps everything from getting soggy—no sad, mushy sandwiches here!

Tip: For extra crunch, swap jelly for thinly sliced strawberries or mashed raspberries.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Croissant

Peanut Butter and Jelly Croissant

This playful twist on a childhood classic turns flaky croissants into a warm, gooey treat that feels both nostalgic and fancy.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large day-old croissants, split horizontally
  • 3 tbsp creamy peanut butter
  • 2 tbsp strawberry jam (or your favorite flavor)
  • 1 tbsp melted unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Place croissant halves cut-side up on a baking sheet.
  2. Spread 1½ tbsp peanut butter on the bottom half of each croissant, then top with 1 tbsp jam per croissant. Close with the top halves.
  3. Brush the tops lightly with melted butter. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the jam bubbles slightly and the croissants are golden.
  4. Let cool 2 minutes, then dust with powdered sugar. Serve warm.

The contrast of crisp layers with the melty peanut butter center makes this feel like a bakery-worthy upgrade. Tip: For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped peanuts over the butter before baking.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Quesadilla

Peanut Butter and Jelly Quesadilla

Who says quesadillas have to be savory? This sweet twist on a classic is a nostalgic treat that comes together in minutes.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large flour tortillas (8-inch)
  • 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 tbsp strawberry jelly (or your favorite flavor)
  • 1 tsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Spread 1/4 cup peanut butter evenly over one tortilla, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Dollop 2 tbsp jelly on top and sprinkle with 1/4 tsp cinnamon (if using). Top with the second tortilla.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Spread 1 tsp butter on one side of the assembled quesadilla and place it butter-side down in the skillet. Butter the top side while cooking.
  3. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until golden and crisp. The peanut butter should be slightly melted.
  4. Transfer to a cutting board, let cool for 1 minute, then slice into wedges.

The warm, gooey filling contrasts perfectly with the crispy tortilla – like a grilled PB&J with a fun texture upgrade!

Tip: For extra crunch, use chunky peanut butter or add a sprinkle of granola before folding.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Panini

Peanut Butter and Jelly Panini

This nostalgic sandwich gets a crispy, melty upgrade—perfect for a quick lunch or after-school snack that feels extra special.

Ingredients:

  • 2 slices thick-cut white or whole wheat bread
  • 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
  • 1 tbsp grape jelly (or strawberry, if preferred)
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

Instructions:

  1. Spread 1 tbsp peanut butter on one slice of bread and 1 tbsp jelly on the other. Press together to form a sandwich.
  2. Heat a panini press or skillet over medium heat. Spread ½ tbsp butter on one side of the sandwich and place it butter-side down in the pan. Spread the remaining ½ tbsp butter on the top slice.
  3. If using a press: Close and cook for 3–4 minutes until golden. If using a skillet: Place a heavy pan on top to weigh it down, flip after 2 minutes, and cook another 2 minutes until crisp.

The heat transforms the classic combo into something magical—the peanut butter gets oozy, the jelly slightly caramelized, and the bread shatteringly crisp.

Tip: For a fun twist, sprinkle a pinch of flaky salt on the peanut butter before assembling.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Crepes

Peanut Butter and Jelly Crepes

These dreamy peanut butter and jelly crepes are like a nostalgic lunchbox favorite, but fancy enough for a weekend brunch.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tbsp melted butter, plus extra for cooking
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/3 cup strawberry jam (or your favorite flavor)
  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

  1. In a blender, combine flour, milk, eggs, 2 tbsp melted butter, and salt. Blend until smooth, about 30 seconds. Let batter rest 10 minutes.
  2. Heat a 10-inch nonstick skillet over medium and lightly brush with butter. Pour 1/4 cup batter, swirling to coat the pan. Cook 1–2 minutes until edges lift, then flip and cook 30 seconds more. Repeat with remaining batter.
  3. Spread each crepe with 1 tbsp peanut butter and 2 tsp jam. Fold into quarters or roll up. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

The contrast of warm, tender crepes with the cool, melty peanut butter makes every bite irresistible.

Tip: For extra flair, drizzle with honey or sprinkle crushed peanuts on top!

Peanut Butter and Jelly Muffin Sandwich

Peanut Butter and Jelly Muffin Sandwich

Who says PB&J is just for sandwiches? These muffin sandwiches are a fun, portable twist on the classic—perfect for lunchboxes or snack time.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 1/4 cup strawberry jelly (or your favorite flavor)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a muffin tin with 6 liners or grease lightly.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, and 1/4 tsp salt.
  3. In another bowl, mix 1/2 cup milk, 1/4 cup peanut butter, the egg, and 2 tbsp melted butter until smooth. Fold wet ingredients into dry until just combined.
  4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. Bake for 18–20 minutes until tops spring back when touched. Cool completely.
  5. Slice muffins horizontally. Spread 1 tbsp jelly on the bottom half and 1 tbsp peanut butter on the top half, then sandwich together.

The muffin’s tender crumb balances the creamy peanut butter and sweet jelly, making it a handheld upgrade to the original. Tip: For extra flair, lightly toast the muffin halves before assembling!

Peanut Butter and Jelly Donut Sandwich

Peanut Butter and Jelly Donut Sandwich

This playful twist on a childhood favorite turns fluffy donuts into a sweet, handheld treat that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Ingredients:

  • 2 glazed donuts (store-bought or homemade, split horizontally)
  • 3 tbsp creamy peanut butter
  • 2 tbsp strawberry jelly (or your favorite flavor)
  • 1/2 tbsp melted butter
  • 1 tsp powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat a skillet over medium-low heat. Brush the cut sides of the donuts lightly with 1/2 tbsp melted butter.
  2. Place the donuts cut-side down in the skillet and toast for 1–2 minutes until golden and slightly crisp. Remove from heat.
  3. Spread 3 tbsp peanut butter on the bottom half of each donut, then top with 2 tbsp jelly. Sandwich with the top halves.
  4. Dust lightly with 1 tsp powdered sugar and serve warm.

The toasty donut adds a bakery-fresh crunch, while the melty peanut butter and jelly ooze nostalgia in every bite. Tip: For extra indulgence, drizzle with melted chocolate or swap jelly for Nutella!

Peanut Butter and Jelly Ice Cream Sandwich

Peanut Butter and Jelly Ice Cream Sandwich

Who says PB&J is just for lunch? This nostalgic ice cream sandwich swaps bread for chewy cookies and adds a creamy, frozen twist.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 pint strawberry ice cream, slightly softened
  • 1/4 cup grape jelly

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup peanut butter, 1/2 cup butter, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup brown sugar until fluffy. Mix in 1 egg and 1 tsp vanilla.
  3. Whisk together 1 1/4 cups flour, 1/2 tsp baking soda, and 1/4 tsp salt. Gradually add to wet ingredients until just combined.
  4. Roll dough into 24 balls (1 tbsp each), flatten slightly, and bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are set. Cool completely.
  5. Spread 1/2 tsp grape jelly on the flat side of 12 cookies. Top each with a scoop of strawberry ice cream and another cookie, pressing gently.
  6. Freeze for at least 1 hour before serving.

The magic here? The jelly stays soft against the ice cream while the cookies stay chewy—no rock-hard bites!

Tip: For cleaner assembly, chill cookies in the freezer for 10 minutes before sandwiching.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Pop Tart Sandwich

Peanut Butter and Jelly Pop Tart Sandwich

Who says pop tarts are just for breakfast? This playful mashup turns them into a gooey, nostalgic sandwich that’s perfect for an after-school treat or late-night snack.

Ingredients:

  • 2 unfrosted strawberry pop tarts
  • 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
  • 1 tablespoon grape jelly
  • 1 teaspoon unsalted butter, softened

Instructions:

  1. Toast the pop tarts in a toaster or toaster oven until warm and slightly crisp, about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Spread 1 tablespoon of peanut butter evenly on the flat side of one pop tart. Spread 1 tablespoon of jelly on the other.
  3. Press the two pop tarts together, peanut butter and jelly sides facing inward, to form a sandwich.
  4. Heat a small skillet over medium-low heat. Spread 1 teaspoon of butter on the outer sides of the sandwich, then cook for 1-2 minutes per side until golden and just crispy.

The magic here? The warm, melty peanut butter and jelly seep into the flaky layers of the pop tart, creating a texture that’s part pastry, part grilled cheese—and 100% addictive.

Tip: For extra crunch, swap the jelly for sliced bananas or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts before grilling.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Pretzel Sandwich

Peanut Butter and Jelly Pretzel Sandwich

This sweet-and-salty twist on a classic PB&J is the ultimate snack hack—crunchy pretzels add the perfect contrast to creamy peanut butter and fruity jam.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large pretzel buns or 4 small pretzel rolls, sliced in half
  • 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 tbsp strawberry jam (or your favorite flavor)
  • 1 tbsp honey (optional, for drizzling)
  • 1/4 tsp flaky sea salt (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Spread 1/4 cup peanut butter evenly on the bottom halves of the pretzel buns.
  2. Dollop 2 tbsp jam over the peanut butter, then gently spread it with the back of a spoon.
  3. Drizzle with 1 tbsp honey (if using) and sprinkle with 1/4 tsp flaky salt for a salty-sweet kick.
  4. Top with the remaining pretzel bun halves, press lightly, and slice in half if desired.

The pretzel’s chewiness balances the gooey fillings, making this sandwich irresistibly messy in the best way. Tip: Warm the pretzel buns for 10 seconds in the microwave to make them extra soft!

Peanut Butter and Jelly Granola Sandwich

Peanut Butter and Jelly Granola Sandwich

This crunchy, sweet, and nostalgic twist on a classic PB&J turns your favorite childhood sandwich into a satisfying, energy-packed snack.

Ingredients:

  • 2 slices whole wheat bread (or your preferred bread)
  • 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
  • 1 tbsp strawberry jam (or any flavor you love)
  • 2 tbsp granola (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tsp honey (optional, for drizzling)

Instructions:

  1. Toast the bread lightly until golden and crisp, about 2-3 minutes in a toaster or skillet.
  2. Spread 2 tbsp peanut butter evenly on one slice of toast, then drizzle with 1 tsp honey if using.
  3. Spread 1 tbsp jam on the other slice of toast, then sprinkle 2 tbsp granola over the jam, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. Press both slices together, cut diagonally, and enjoy immediately for the best crunch.

The granola adds a delightful texture contrast to the creamy peanut butter and sticky-sweet jam—like a handheld PB&J parfait!

Tip: For extra crunch, toast the granola in a dry skillet for 1-2 minutes before assembling.

Conclusion

With 18 creative twists on the classic PB&J, there’s something here for everyone to love! Whether you’re craving nostalgia or a bold new flavor, these recipes are sure to delight. Give them a try, share your favorites in the comments, and don’t forget to pin this roundup for your next snack-time inspiration. Happy cooking!

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