Strawberry Jam Jelly Bars Recipe

Introduction

Jelly Bars are a delightful treat combining a buttery peanut butter base with a sweet layer of strawberry jam and a crumbly topping. These bars are perfect for snacks, lunchboxes, or sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 cups creamy peanut butter
• 3 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 2 cups strawberry jam

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
3. Step 3: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually mix this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Step 5: Press about two-thirds of the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish to create the base layer.
6. Step 6: Spread the strawberry jam evenly over the base layer, making sure to leave the edges clear.
7. Step 7: Crumble the remaining dough over the jam layer to create a textured top.
8. Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is a light golden brown.
9. Step 9: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Use the parchment overhang to lift them out, then cut into bars.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the jam layer before adding the crumb topping.
• Try using raspberry or apricot jam for a different fruity twist.
• If you prefer a chunkier texture, use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy.
• Chill the dough for 30 minutes before pressing it into the pan to make handling easier.

Storage

Store the Jelly Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, warm the bars briefly in the microwave or oven to soften the jam and refresh the crumbly texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of jam?

Yes, you can substitute strawberry jam with any jam or preserve you like, such as raspberry, blueberry, or apricot. Just make sure it’s not too runny to keep the bars from becoming soggy.

Do I have to use peanut butter?

While peanut butter adds a rich flavor and texture, you can replace it with almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or even omit it for a more traditional shortbread base. Adjust the amount of butter slightly if you modify this ingredient.

Strawberry Jam Jelly Bars Recipe

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4.7 from 429 reviews

Deliciously rich and buttery Jelly Bars featuring a creamy peanut butter crust layered with sweet strawberry jam, crumbled on top for a delightful texture and baked to golden perfection. Perfect for snack time or dessert lovers seeking a nostalgic treat.

• Author: Elena
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 24 bars 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Base and Topping

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups sugar
• 2 cups creamy peanut butter
• 3 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

Wet Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs, room temperature

Filling

• 2 cups strawberry jam

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal later.
2. Cream Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes using an electric mixer.
3. Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, beating well after each addition to ensure proper mixing. Then stir in the pure vanilla extract for added flavor.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder thoroughly to evenly distribute the leavening agent.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing carefully until a consistent dough forms without overmixing.
6. Press Base Layer: Take about two-thirds of the dough and press it evenly into the prepared baking dish, forming the base layer.
7. Add Jam Layer: Spread the strawberry jam evenly over the base layer, making sure to leave a small edge clear to avoid running during baking.
8. Top Crumble Layer: Crumble the remaining one-third of the dough gently over the jam to create a textured top layer.
9. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top turns a light golden brown.
10. Cool and Serve: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out and cut them into even portions.

Notes

• For best results, ensure eggs are at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smooth batter.
• You can substitute strawberry jam with any preferred flavored jam or preserves for variety.
• Storing the bars in an airtight container can keep them fresh for up to 5 days at room temperature.
• For easier cutting, chill the bars in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes after cooling.

Keywords: Jelly Bars, Peanut Butter Bars, Strawberry Jam Bars, Baked Dessert, Easy Snack Bars