Peanut Butter & Jelly Cracker Recipe – Quick Kids’ Snack Idea

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Peanut Butter & Jelly Cracker Recipe – Quick Kids’ Snack Idea

Hey everyone! Sometimes the simplest snacks are the best, right? This Peanut Butter & Jelly Cracker recipe is a total classic, and honestly, it’s a lifesaver on busy afternoons. I remember making these all the time with my little cousins when they’d come over – instant smiles guaranteed! It’s quick, easy, and totally customizable. Let’s get into it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Seriously, who doesn’t love a PB&J? This cracker version takes all the goodness of a sandwich and makes it even more convenient. It’s perfect for little hands, lunchboxes, or a quick after-school treat. Plus, it takes just minutes to put together – a total win for busy parents (or anyone who just wants a tasty snack, let’s be real!).

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 crackers
• 1 tbsp peanut butter
• 1 tbsp jelly

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference.

• Crackers: You can use any crackers you like! Saltines are classic, but Ritz, whole wheat crackers, or even graham crackers work beautifully.
• Peanut Butter: Creamy or crunchy – it’s totally up to you! I personally love creamy for this, but my nephew is a huge crunchy peanut butter fan. About 16 grams of peanut butter is what you’re looking for.
• Jelly/Jam: Strawberry and grape are the go-to’s, but don’t be afraid to experiment! Raspberry, apricot, or even a fig jam would be delicious. Around 15ml of jelly is perfect.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s make some magic happen!

1. Grab your crackers. Lay them out on a clean surface.
2. Take your peanut butter and spread it evenly on one cracker. Don’t be shy!
3. Now, spread the jelly on the other cracker. Again, a nice even layer is what we’re aiming for.
4. Carefully press the peanut butter and jelly sides together. You’ve got a PB&J cracker sandwich!
5. Serve immediately and enjoy! Or, pop it in a lunchbox for a delightful surprise later.

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

• Use a butter knife or small spatula to spread the peanut butter and jelly. It makes things so much easier.
• If you’re packing this for a lunchbox, consider wrapping it individually in plastic wrap or putting it in a small container to prevent it from getting squished.
• For extra fun, use cookie cutters to cut the crackers into fun shapes before adding the peanut butter and jelly!

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Nut-Free Alternatives: If you have nut allergies, sunflower seed butter or soy butter are fantastic substitutes for peanut butter.
• Whole Wheat Cracker Option: Swap out the regular crackers for whole wheat ones for a little extra fiber.
• Different Jelly Flavors: Seriously, the possibilities are endless! Try apricot, raspberry, or even orange marmalade.
• Reduced Sugar Options: Look for sugar-free or low-sugar jelly options. You can also use mashed banana as a natural sweetener! My friend swears by this for her little one.

Serving Suggestions

This snack is great on its own, but here are a few ideas to make it a complete treat:

• Serve with a side of sliced fruit, like apples or bananas.
• Pair it with a glass of milk or yogurt.
• Add a few veggie sticks for a balanced snack.

Storage Instructions

This snack is best enjoyed fresh! However, you can assemble the crackers ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just be aware that the crackers might get a little soft.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

• Is this a good snack for toddlers? Yes, but always supervise young children while they’re eating to prevent choking. You might want to spread the peanut butter thinly for little ones.
• Can I use almond butter or sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter? Absolutely! Any nut or seed butter will work beautifully.
• How can I prevent the crackers from getting soggy? Spread a thin layer of peanut butter on the cracker first. The peanut butter acts as a barrier to prevent the jelly from soaking in.
• What’s the best type of jelly to use for this snack? That’s totally a matter of personal preference! Strawberry and grape are classics, but feel free to experiment.
• Can I make this snack ahead of time? You can, but the crackers are best when freshly made. If you do make them ahead, store them in an airtight container in the fridge.