Strawberry Jam Jelly Bars Recipe
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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder thoroughly to evenly distribute the leavening agent.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing carefully until a consistent dough forms without overmixing.
- Press Base Layer: Take about two-thirds of the dough and press it evenly into the prepared baking dish, forming the base layer.
- 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.
- Top Crumble Layer: Crumble the remaining one-third of the dough gently over the jam to create a textured top layer.
- 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.
- 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