Pb&j Recipe

Gather and measure

Lay out two slices of bread on a clean cutting board or plate. Measure 2 tablespoons of peanut butter and 2 tablespoons of your chosen jam. If using banana, slice half a banana into thin rounds. If you prefer toasted bread, have butter ready.

If your peanut butter is very stiff, stir it in the jar or microwave it (10–15 seconds) in a microwave-safe bowl to make it easier to spread. Do not overheat.

Spread peanut butter

Use a butter knife to spread about 1 tablespoon of peanut butter evenly over the surface of one bread slice, covering nearly to the edges but leaving a small border to prevent overflow.

Spread jam

Use a clean knife or spoon to spread about 1 tablespoon of jam evenly over the second slice of bread, again leaving a small border.

Add optional fillings

If using banana, arrange the banana slices in a single layer over the peanut butter. If using chocolate spread instead of jam, spread it on the second slice in the same way.

Combine and press

Place the jam-topped slice jam-side down onto the peanut-buttered slice. Press gently so the filling adheres and the sandwich holds together.

Cold sandwich ready to serve

If serving fresh and un-toasted, place the sandwich on a plate, cut diagonally or down the middle if desired, and serve with a napkin.

Toasted (pan) method

Heat a nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. Lightly butter the outside of both bread slices with the optional 1 teaspoon butter (a light smear on the outer faces). Place the sandwich in the skillet and toast 2–3 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden brown and warmed through.

Toasted (panini) or toaster method

Alternatively, use a panini press or sandwich toaster and toast according to the appliance instructions until golden and warmed through.

Slice and serve. Add any extra salt to taste if using savory peanut butter that benefits from a tiny pinch of salt. Serve immediately.