Grilled Banana Peanut Butter and Jelly Delight
Indulge in the unexpected yet delightful combination of creamy peanut butter, luscious jelly, and sweet banana, all grilled to perfection! This Grilled Banana Peanut Butter and Jelly Delight brings a nostalgic twist to your classic lunchtime favorite. Savor every bite as the heat melds the flavors together and toasts the bread to golden perfection. Perfect for a quick lunch or a satisfying snack, this sandwich is sure to become a new family favorite. If you have a George Foreman grill, the process is even easier, making it ideal for a hassle-free meal any day of the week!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Bread
4 (slices)
Jelly
to taste ((I prefer strawberry))
Peanut Butter
to taste
Banana
1 (sliced)
Butter
1 (teaspoon)
Instructions
1
Start by laying out two slices of bread. Spread a generous layer of peanut butter on one slice and jelly on the other slice.
2
Before bringing the slices together, add a layer of sliced bananas on top of the peanut butter or jelly layer, whichever you prefer.
3
Carefully press the two slices together to form a delicious sandwich.
4
Spread 1 teaspoon of butter evenly over one side of the sandwich.
5
Preheat a small frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, place the unbuttered side of the sandwich down into the pan.
6
Grill for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and crispy. While grilling, press down gently with a spatula to ensure even cooking.
7
Once the bottom side is grilled, carefully butter the top side of the sandwich, flip it over, and grill the other side until golden and crispy.
8
Remove from the pan, slice in half if desired, and serve warm to enjoy the melty goodness!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Grilled Banana Peanut Butter and Jelly Delight?
It is a warm, toasted twist on the classic PB&J sandwich featuring sliced bananas and golden-brown grilled bread.
What type of bread is recommended for this recipe?
You can use any sandwich bread you prefer, such as white, whole wheat, sourdough, or even brioche for a richer flavor.
Can I use a George Foreman grill?
Yes, using a George Foreman grill makes the process even easier and provides even heating on both sides.
Which jelly flavor works best?
While the recipe suggests strawberry jelly, grape, raspberry, or blackberry preserves also pair wonderfully with peanut butter and banana.
How many bananas do I need?
The recipe calls for one banana, sliced, to provide a full layer of fruit inside the sandwich.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Absolutely! This is a kid-friendly meal that offers a fun and nutritious update to a lunchtime staple.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter adds a nice texture that complements the soft bananas and crispy bread.
How long does it take to grill the sandwich?
It typically takes 2 to 3 minutes per side over medium heat to achieve a golden brown crust.
Why do I need to butter the bread?
Butter helps the bread brown evenly and provides a delicious, crispy texture and savory flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, simply use vegan-friendly bread and replace the dairy butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil.
What heat setting should I use for the pan?
Medium heat is ideal to ensure the bread toasts without burning while the interior gets warm and melty.
Can I add honey to this sandwich?
Yes, a drizzle of honey along with the peanut butter can add extra sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
How should I slice the banana?
Slice the banana into thin, even rounds so they lay flat and stay inside the sandwich while grilling.
Can I substitute peanut butter with other nut butters?
Certainly! Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter are all great alternatives.
Is this a good snack or a full meal?
It is versatile enough to be a satisfying snack or a quick and filling lunch.
How do I prevent the sandwich from burning?
Keep the heat at medium and watch the sandwich closely, flipping as soon as the bottom reaches a golden hue.
Should I press down on the sandwich while grilling?
Yes, pressing down gently with a spatula ensures the bread makes full contact with the pan for even browning.
How should I serve this sandwich?
It is best served warm, either whole or sliced diagonally in half to show off the melty layers.
How many sandwiches does this recipe make?
Based on the ingredient list using 4 slices of bread, the recipe makes two complete sandwiches.
Why is grilling better than just toasting the bread?
Grilling with butter creates a superior texture and allows the heat to melt the peanut butter and jelly into the bananas.
What ripeness should the banana be?
A ripe banana with a few brown spots is best because it will be sweeter and soften nicely when heated.
Can I add spices like cinnamon?
Yes, sprinkling a little cinnamon over the bananas before closing the sandwich adds a wonderful warm aroma.
Does the thickness of the bread matter?
Standard slices work well, but thicker 'Texas Toast' style slices can hold more filling and stay sturdy.
Does the jelly get messy when heated?
The jelly becomes more fluid when warm, so be sure to leave a small margin at the edges of the bread when spreading.
Is this a messy recipe to clean up?
No, if you use a non-stick pan or a grill, cleanup is usually just a quick wipe down.
Can I make this ahead of time?
It is best enjoyed fresh and warm, as the bread may become soft if stored for too long after grilling.
What if I have a nut allergy?
You can use 'WowButter' or sunflower seed butter to keep the recipe nut-free and safe for allergies.
Can I add a salty element?
Some people enjoy adding a slice of crispy bacon for a savory-sweet 'Elvis-style' sandwich.
What is the correct assembly order?
Spread PB on one slice, jelly on the other, place bananas in the middle, then close and butter the outside.
Why is this considered comfort food?
The combination of warm bread, melted peanut butter, and fruit creates a nostalgic and satisfying experience.