Perfect Grilled Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwich

Basic Ingredients

• 2 slices bread (brioche, challah, or thick white bread work best)
• 2-3 tablespoons peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
• 1-2 tablespoons jelly or jam of choice
• 1-2 tablespoons butter for grilling

Instructions

Assembly Method:

1. Spread peanut butter on both slices of bread – this creates a barrier to prevent jelly from making the bread soggy during grilling.
2. Add jelly to one slice only, spreading it over the peanut butter layer.
3. Close sandwich with the other peanut butter-coated slice.

Grilling Process:

1. Heat skillet over medium-low heat (this is key – too high and the outside burns before inside warms).
2. Butter the outside of both bread slices generously.
3. Place sandwich in skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
4. Flip carefully and cook another 3-4 minutes until second side is golden.
5. Let cool for 1-2 minutes before cutting – the filling will be very hot!

Flavor Variations

Classic Combinations:

• Strawberry PB&J: Strawberry jam with creamy peanut butter
• Grape Classic: Grape jelly with crunchy peanut butter
• Apricot Delight: Apricot preserves with almond butter

Gourmet Upgrades:

• Elvis Style: Add sliced banana and a drizzle of honey
• Berry Medley: Mixed berry jam with natural peanut butter
• Nutella Twist: Replace jelly with Nutella and add sliced strawberries
• Apple Pie: Apple butter with cinnamon peanut butter

International Inspired:

• Thai Style: Peanut butter with mango jam and a pinch of red pepper flakes
• French Toast Style: Dip assembled sandwich in beaten egg before grilling
• Churro Style: Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar after grilling

Pro Tips for Success:

Bread Selection:

• Brioche: Rich and buttery, holds up well to grilling
• Challah: Slightly sweet, creates beautiful golden crust
• Sourdough: Tangy flavor complements sweet fillings
• Texas Toast: Extra thick, perfect for generous fillings

Temperature Control:

• Medium-low heat prevents burning
• Cover with lid for last minute to ensure inside is thoroughly warmed
• If bread browns too quickly, lower heat

Assembly Secrets:

• Room temperature peanut butter spreads easier
• Don’t overfill – about 2-3 tablespoons total filling
• Press edges lightly to seal before grilling

Serving Suggestions:

• Cut diagonally and serve immediately
• Pair with cold milk, coffee, or hot chocolate
• Serve with fresh fruit or potato chips
• Dust with powdered sugar for dessert version

Make-Ahead Tips:

• Assemble sandwiches and wrap in plastic wrap
• Refrigerate up to overnight
• Grill straight from fridge, adding 1-2 extra minutes per side

Troubleshooting:

• Soggy bread: Use peanut butter barrier method
• Burnt outside, cold inside: Lower heat, cover with lid
• Filling leaking out: Don’t overfill, seal edges before grilling
• Uneven browning: Make sure skillet is level and heat is even

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 minutes
Serves: 1 hungry person or 2 for sharing