We all know salty and sweet is an awesome combination. That's why PB+J sandwiches are so popular, and why there's a whole day dedicated to their relationship. There are some people out there who aren't on board with the whole thing and that's okay (kind of). But give these bars a try--they could definitely sway you. Keep scrolling for the recipe, plus some baking tips!
In baking, small changes can make a big difference when it comes to the final product, and it's pretty disheartening when your masterpiece comes out a little off. What's great about this recipe is that you really can't mess it up!
If you have an electric whisk, use it to combine the butter, peanut butter, sugar, and then the eggs. Use a wooden spoon to mix in the dry ingredients. If you don't have an electric whisk, use the wooden spoon throughout and the results will be just as good (plus you get an arm workout, so two birds, one stone). If you aren't using natural, unsweetened peanut butter, then cut the sugar by about half (but it's up to you, taste as you go!).
This recipe calls for grape jelly, but we definitely prefer strawberry or raspberry. It's a personal choice! Once you get the peanut butter mixture done, all that's left to do is to layer it with the jelly. Press an even layer using your hands, add jelly on top, then top with the remaining peanut butter mixture. Lastly, scatter the salted peanuts. Don't skip out on these--they add an important saltiness to the dish.
If you're looking for ways to celebrate National Peanut Butter Day this year, try these bars. They're fool-proof, great to bring along to a picnic, pack into school lunches, or just eat straight from the pan.
Capturing all the love and deliciousness of our favorite childhood snack, these bars are easy to make and easy to eat!