If you're a fan of the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich, get ready to fall in love with Peanut Butter and Jelly Muffins! These muffins take the beloved PB&J flavors and transform them into a delightful, handheld breakfast or snack. With a soft, peanut butter-infused base and a sweet, jam-filled center, every bite will bring back memories of childhood lunchboxes while satisfying your grown-up cravings.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the recipe, share tips for perfect muffins, and suggest fun variations to suit your taste.
Why You'll Love These Muffins
These Peanut Butter and Jelly Muffins are a hit for so many reasons:
- Rich Peanut Butter Flavor: A moist and flavorful peanut butter base makes these muffins irresistible.
- Sweet Jam Surprise: A dollop of fruity jelly or jam in the center adds the perfect touch of sweetness.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, they come together quickly.
- Kid-Friendly and Nostalgic: Both kids and adults will adore these muffins, which put a fun twist on a classic flavor combination.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather these pantry staples to get started:
For the Muffin Batter:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 cup of milk
For the Jelly Filling:
- 1/2 cup of your favorite jelly, jam, or preserves (such as grape, strawberry, or raspberry)
Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Muffins
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease the cups.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, peanut butter, and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and beat until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 2: Assemble the Muffins
- Spoon a tablespoon of batter into each muffin cup.
- Add a small dollop (about 1 teaspoon) of jelly or jam to the center of each.
- Top with another tablespoon of batter, ensuring that the jelly is completely covered.
Step 3: Bake and Cool
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the muffin (avoiding the jelly) comes out clean.
- Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Muffins
To ensure your Peanut Butter and Jelly Muffins turn out perfectly, follow these tips:
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense muffins. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let the butter, eggs, and milk sit at room temperature before starting for a smoother batter.
- Choose the Right Jam: Use a thick jam or jelly to prevent it from sinking to the bottom.
- Fill Muffin Cups Properly: Make sure to cover the jelly completely with batter to avoid it leaking out during baking.
Fun Variations and Add-Ins
Customize your muffins with these tasty variations:
- Crunchy Peanut Butter: Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
- Swirl Effect: Swirl a bit of jelly into the top of each muffin for a pretty, marbled effect.
- Different Flavors: Experiment with different jams, such as blueberry, apricot, or blackberry.
- Chocolate Chip Add-In: Stir chocolate chips into the batter for a peanut butter and chocolate twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these muffins gluten-free.
Storage and Freezing
Keep your muffins fresh with these storage tips:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate the muffins for up to a week.
- Freezing: Freeze the muffins in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these muffins ahead of time? Yes! You can bake the muffins in advance and store them at room temperature or in the freezer until ready to serve.
2. Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter? Absolutely! Almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or other nut butters can be used as substitutes.
3. How can I prevent the jelly from sinking? Use a thicker jam and place it carefully in the center of the batter. Avoid adding too much to prevent it from leaking.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter and Jelly Muffins are a fun, nostalgic twist on the classic PB&J combo. With their moist peanut butter base and sweet jam center, they’re perfect for breakfast, snacks, or lunchbox treats.
Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delicious taste of childhood in every bite!
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