Peanut butter and jelly French toast offers a creative twist on the classic breakfast dish, combining the rich, nutty flavors of peanut butter with the sweet, tangy taste of jelly. This dish brings together two childhood favorites—peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and French toast—into one decadent breakfast. Whether you’re preparing it for a leisurely weekend morning or a special brunch, this dish delivers comfort and nostalgia in every bite.
Making peanut butter and jelly French toast at home is easy and requires minimal ingredients. With a few simple steps, you can elevate your breakfast game and create a meal that both kids and adults will adore. In this article, you’ll learn how to make this delightful dish from scratch, along with variations, tips, and serving suggestions to make it truly your own.
The Magic of Peanut Butter and Jelly French Toast
The beauty of this dish lies in its combination of textures and flavors. The crispy, golden-brown exterior of the French toast pairs perfectly with the creamy peanut butter and fruity jelly tucked inside. It transforms an ordinary breakfast into a restaurant-quality experience that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
This recipe also offers versatility. You can experiment with different types of bread, peanut butter, and jelly to suit your preferences. From classic white bread and grape jelly to artisanal sourdough with raspberry preserves, the possibilities are endless.
Ingredients for Peanut Butter and Jelly French Toast
To make peanut butter and jelly French toast, you’ll need the following ingredients:
French Toast:
- Bread: Thick slices of bread like brioche, challah, or Texas toast work best for this recipe.
- Eggs: Eggs provide the structure for the custard and help the bread achieve its rich, golden crust.
- Milk or Cream: Milk or heavy cream adds creaminess to the custard mixture.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the flavor of the custard.
- Ground Cinnamon: A pinch of cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the dish.
Filling:
- Peanut Butter: Choose creamy or crunchy peanut butter, depending on your preference.
- Jelly or Jam: Use your favorite jelly, jam, or preserves to add a sweet, fruity element. Popular choices include grape, strawberry, and raspberry.
Cooking and Serving:
- Butter or Oil: Butter or neutral oil like canola ensures a crisp, golden-brown crust.
- Powdered Sugar (Optional): Dusting the finished toast with powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
- Fresh Fruit (Optional): Add sliced bananas or berries for extra flavor and texture.
- Maple Syrup (Optional): Drizzle maple syrup over the French toast for added indulgence.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Spread peanut butter on one slice of bread and jelly on another. Sandwich them together, creating a classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Repeat this step for all servings.
Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until fully combined. Ensure the mixture is smooth for an even coating.
Step 3: Dip the Sandwiches
Dip each sandwich into the custard mixture, ensuring both sides are fully coated. Let the bread soak for a few seconds to absorb the custard, but don’t let it become too soggy.
Step 4: Cook the French Toast
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a small amount of butter or oil. Once the butter melts and sizzles, place the custard-coated sandwiches in the pan. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the cooked French toast to a plate and garnish with your desired toppings. Dust with powdered sugar, add fresh fruit, or drizzle with maple syrup for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Bread: Thick, sturdy bread works best for this recipe. Softer breads may fall apart when dipped in the custard.
- Customize the Filling: Experiment with different nut butters or spreads like almond butter, cashew butter, or Nutella.
- Cook Over Medium Heat: Cooking over medium heat ensures the French toast cooks evenly without burning.
- Serve Immediately: French toast tastes best when served hot, so enjoy it fresh off the skillet.
- Keep Warm for Large Batches: If making multiple servings, keep cooked French toast warm in a low-temperature oven until ready to serve.
Variations of Peanut Butter and Jelly French Toast
Stuffed French Toast
Instead of making a sandwich, spread peanut butter and jelly on the same slice of bread. Place another slice on top, press the edges together, and then dip it in the custard mixture. The filling stays sealed, creating a neat and gooey center.
Banana Peanut Butter French Toast
Add sliced bananas to the sandwich before dipping it in the custard. The bananas enhance the sweetness and complement the peanut butter perfectly.
Nut-Free Alternative
Use sunflower seed butter or a similar nut-free spread for a peanut-free option. Pair it with your favorite jelly for a delicious allergy-friendly dish.
Decadent Chocolate Twist
Replace peanut butter with chocolate hazelnut spread for a dessert-inspired version. Add a sprinkle of cocoa powder to the custard for extra chocolate flavor.
Savory Sweet Combination
Swap jelly for bacon or caramelized onions to create a sweet-savory version of this dish. The saltiness balances the richness of the peanut butter and eggs.
Serving Suggestions
Peanut butter and jelly French toast pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes and beverages. Serve it alongside scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or a fresh fruit salad for a complete breakfast. For beverages, coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk complements the rich flavors beautifully.
If serving this dish as part of a brunch spread, add other items like muffins, yogurt parfaits, or breakfast casseroles to provide variety and balance.
Peanut Butter and Jelly French Toast for Meal Prep
This recipe works well for meal prep, making busy mornings easier. Prepare and cook the French toast as directed, then let it cool completely. Store individual servings in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a toaster oven or on a skillet to restore the crispy texture.
For longer storage, freeze the French toast in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the slices to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen for a quick and satisfying breakfast.
Why Peanut Butter and Jelly French Toast is a Must-Try
Peanut butter and jelly French toast combines the comforting flavors of childhood with the indulgence of a grown-up breakfast. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re treating yourself to a lazy weekend breakfast or impressing guests at a brunch gathering, this dish delivers on both taste and nostalgia.
So, grab your favorite bread, your go-to peanut butter, and a jar of jelly, and get ready to transform your breakfast routine with this irresistible recipe!
Elevating the Classic: A Gourmet Twist
Peanut butter and jelly French toast offers endless opportunities for creativity. For a gourmet twist, try using artisanal bread like brioche or sourdough. Incorporate premium peanut butter with added flavors like honey or cinnamon and pair it with homemade jam. A sprinkle of sea salt on the finished dish enhances the flavors and provides a sophisticated contrast to the sweetness. With just a few small upgrades, you can transform this comfort food into a brunch-worthy centerpiece.
Experimenting with Textures
Adding texture can take your peanut butter and jelly French toast to the next level. Mix crushed nuts or granola into the peanut butter before spreading it on the bread. This adds a satisfying crunch to every bite. Alternatively, consider rolling the prepared toast in finely crushed cereal or graham crackers after dipping it in the custard but before cooking. This step creates an irresistible crispy coating, adding depth to the dish.
Incorporating Unique Flavors
For a fun and unexpected twist, experiment with unique flavors. Swap traditional peanut butter for flavored spreads like chocolate almond butter or cookie butter. Pair these with unconventional jams, such as fig preserves, apricot jam, or even spicy pepper jelly. Infusing the custard with orange zest, nutmeg, or cardamom also introduces a new layer of flavor that complements the sweet and nutty notes of the dish.
Peanut Butter and Jelly French Toast as Dessert
While this dish is a fantastic breakfast, it also doubles as a dessert. Serve it à la mode with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream, drizzled with chocolate or caramel sauce. For an extra decadent option, add a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle with toasted coconut or chopped nuts. This dessert version of peanut butter and jelly French toast is perfect for ending a meal on a sweet, satisfying note.
Peanut Butter and Jelly French Toast for Kids
Kids love peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, making this recipe a surefire hit. Involve your children in the preparation process to turn cooking into a fun family activity. Let them spread the peanut butter and jelly or help with simple steps like whisking the custard. For smaller hands, cut the French toast into sticks or fun shapes using cookie cutters. Serve with a side of fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced meal that kids will enjoy.
Hosting a French Toast Bar
If you’re entertaining guests, consider setting up a French toast bar. Offer a variety of spreads, such as different nut butters, jams, and flavored creams. Include toppings like chopped nuts, fresh fruits, chocolate chips, and syrups. Guests can customize their peanut butter and jelly French toast to their liking, making it an interactive and memorable experience. This setup works well for casual brunches, birthday parties, or holiday gatherings.
The Nutritional Benefits of Peanut Butter
Beyond its delicious taste, peanut butter offers nutritional benefits. It’s rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins like vitamin E and magnesium. Paired with the carbohydrates from the bread and the antioxidants in the jelly, this dish provides a well-rounded meal. Choosing natural peanut butter without added sugars or hydrogenated oils ensures you’re maximizing the health benefits while keeping the dish wholesome.
Building a Balanced Breakfast
To create a balanced breakfast, pair peanut butter and jelly French toast with nutrient-dense sides. A smoothie made with Greek yogurt and fresh fruit complements the dish while adding protein and fiber. Alternatively, serve a handful of mixed nuts or a boiled egg on the side for an extra boost of protein. This approach ensures that your breakfast is both indulgent and nourishing, fueling your morning with sustained energy.
These additional paragraphs enrich the versatility of peanut butter and jelly French toast, offering fresh ideas to elevate and adapt this beloved recipe.