Peanut Butter and Jelly Coffee Cake

Indulging in a warm slice of Peanut Butter and Jelly Coffee Cake is like rediscovering childhood favorites wrapped in a cozy blanket of sweetness and nostalgia. This delightful cake combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the fruity burst of grape jelly, all topped with a crunchy streusel that adds a satisfying texture. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why This Peanut Butter and Jelly Coffee Cake Stands Out

This Peanut Butter and Jelly Coffee Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors that harmoniously blend together. The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet jelly creates an irresistible taste that is both comforting and indulgent. The cake is fluffy and moist, thanks to ingredients like buttermilk and butter, while the crunchy streusel topping adds an exciting contrast. Whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of coffee or serving it at a gathering, this cake is bound to impress.

Ingredient List

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter at room temperature
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup grape jelly or jelly of your choice

For the Peanut Butter Streusel Topping:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup crunchy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Tools of the Trade

• Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients easily.
• Whisk – to ensure a smooth batter without lumps.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient measurements.
• Baking pan – an 8-inch square or round pan works perfectly.
• Spatula – for spreading the batter and topping evenly.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Coffee Cake: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well blended.

Step 3: Cream the Peanut Butter and Butter

In a separate bowl, cream together 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter and 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter using a whisk or electric mixer until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Sugar and Egg

Add 1/2 cup light brown sugar to the creamed mixture and mix until well combined. Then, beat in 1 large egg and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 5: Incorporate Buttermilk

Gradually add 1/2 cup of buttermilk to the mixture, stirring gently until just combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until no flour streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

Step 7: Add Jelly

Pour half of the batter into your prepared baking pan. Spoon 1/2 cup of grape jelly over the batter, spreading it evenly. Then, pour the remaining batter on top and gently spread it out.

Step 8: Prepare the Streusel Topping

In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup light brown sugar, and 1/4 cup crunchy peanut butter. Stir in 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter until crumbly.

Step 9: Add Streusel to the Cake

Sprinkle the peanut butter streusel topping evenly over the batter.

Step 10: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 11: Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Slice, serve, and enjoy your Peanut Butter and Jelly Coffee Cake!

Fresh Seasonal Changes

• Spring: Use strawberry or raspberry jelly for a fruity twist.
• Summer: Top with fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or blueberries.
• Fall: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a warm flavor.
• Winter: Drizzle with melted dark chocolate for a decadent finish.

Author’s Commentary

This Peanut Butter and Jelly Coffee Cake has become a staple in my kitchen. Its simplicity and the nostalgia it brings are hard to beat. I love how versatile it is, making it perfect not only for breakfast but also as a delightful dessert. The combination of flavors is reminiscent of childhood lunches, and I often find myself sneaking a piece for a midnight snack. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do!

Freezer-Friendly Notes

If you want to enjoy this coffee cake later, it freezes beautifully! Allow the cake to cool completely, then wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. This way, you can enjoy a slice of Peanut Butter and Jelly Coffee Cake whenever the craving strikes!

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use a different type of jelly?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the grape jelly for your favorite flavor, such as strawberry, raspberry, or even orange marmalade. The possibilities are endless!

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Peanut Butter and Jelly Coffee Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.

Can I make this coffee cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend you choose is suitable for baking to achieve the best results.

What can I serve with this coffee cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert option.

The Last Word

Creating a Peanut Butter and Jelly Coffee Cake is a delightful way to bring a taste of nostalgia into your kitchen. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this cake is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. The combination of creamy peanut butter, sweet jelly, and crunchy streusel makes it a standout choice for any occasion. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!