Peanut Butter And Jelly Cake [Poke Recipe]

Peanut butter and jelly cake turns familiar pantry flavors into a comforting dessert that reflects my passion for exploring new ideas in the kitchen.

This peanut butter and jelly cake grew from a desire to share something playful for families, friends, and anyone drawn to nostalgic tastes. I created it to give people an easy treat that brings childhood memories into a warm cake.

Some home bakers in the mid century used peanut butter and fruit spreads in creative bakes, and that spirit continues today.

Now I present the steps along with serving ideas, tips, health notes, extra delicious touches, variations, storage, and common answers.

Why This Recipe Is A Must-Try?

This peanut butter and jelly cake is a must-try because it turns a familiar childhood flavor into a warm, comforting dessert without any complicated steps.

The cake bakes up rich and soft from the peanut butter, while the jelly melts into the surface and brings a bright sweetness that makes the whole treat feel nostalgic. It works for casual gatherings, family desserts, or moments when a simple homemade bake brings joy.

The whipped topping, drizzled peanut butter, and extra jelly give it a fun finish that feels special without extra effort. It’s an easy way to bring comfort, flavor, and memory together in one pan.

How To Prepare Peanut Butter And Jelly Cake?

To make this peanut butter and jelly cake perfectly, we’ll go through each step carefully. I’ve described everything in detail and included helpful tips to guide you.

A list of kitchen tools is provided to make the process easier, though not all are required. Use what you have, follow the steps, and you’ll end up with a moist, flavorful, and enjoyable cake.

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: About 45 minutes

Course: Dessert

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield: 10 servings

Kitchen Utensils

• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or whisk
• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Spatula
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Wooden spoon or skewer (for poking holes)
• Measuring cups

Ingredients

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• ½ cup melted butter
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 3 large eggs
• ½ cup strawberry jelly (plus extra for drizzling)
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping
• Optional: additional warmed peanut butter for drizzling

Instructions

1. Prepare the batter.

Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, creamy peanut butter, eggs, and milk. Beat until the mixture is smooth and thick.

2. Bake the cake.

Spread the batter evenly into a greased 9×13-inch pan. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center springs back when touched.

3. Warm the jelly.

Place the strawberry jelly in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short bursts until it becomes pourable.

4. Poke the cake.

While the cake is still warm, use a wooden spoon handle or skewer to poke holes all over the top. Pour the warm jelly over the surface, letting it seep down into the holes.

5. Add the topping.

Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the whipped topping over the entire surface. Make it smooth and even.

6. Finish and serve.

Warm a little extra peanut butter and jelly until pourable. Drizzle both over the whipped topping. Chill for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Notes: You can use grape jelly instead of strawberry if you prefer a classic PB&J flavor. For a firmer topping, chill the cake for an hour before serving. The longer the jelly soaks, the more flavorful the cake becomes.

Nutrition Facts Of Peanut Butter And Jelly Cake

Nutrition	Amounts
Calories	355
Fat	20g
Saturated Fat	6g
Carbohydrates	38g
Sugar	27g
Protein	7g
Fiber	1g

Why My Recipe Works

My recipe works because it balances flavors and textures in a way that keeps the cake moist, creamy, and flavorful. The melted butter and peanut butter enrich the cake, while the eggs and milk provide structure and softness.

Poking the warm cake allows the jelly to seep evenly, creating pockets of fruity sweetness throughout. The whipped topping adds a light, creamy layer that offsets the richness of the peanut butter.

Simple steps, measured ingredients, and proper baking time ensure consistent results, making this cake reliable, delicious, and enjoyable for everyone who tries it.

Why Peoples Like Peanut Butter And Jelly Cake Recipe?

People like this peanut butter and jelly cake recipe because it evokes familiar flavors in a fun and comforting dessert. The rich, creamy peanut butter blends with the sweet, fruity jelly, creating a nostalgic taste that reminds many of childhood treats.

The soft, moist cake provides a tender base, while the cool whipped topping adds a light, smooth contrast.

The cake feels indulgent without being complicated, and its layered textures and balanced sweetness make it enjoyable for both kids and adults. The ease of preparation and versatility in serving also add to its appeal.

How To Serve Peanut Butter And Jelly Cake Recipe

Peanut butter and jelly cake can be served in ways that enhance its creamy, fruity flavors. Fresh berries or sliced bananas add a natural sweetness and a pop of color.

A scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream pairs beautifully with the richness of the peanut butter. Warm caramel or chocolate drizzle can make it more indulgent, while a light dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate touch.

For drinks, milk, coffee, or a fruity iced tea complements the flavors nicely. Serving chilled or slightly warmed gives different textures, making each presentation enjoyable in its own way.

Health Benefits

This peanut butter and jelly cake offers some health benefits when enjoyed in moderation. Peanut butter provides protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins such as vitamin E and magnesium, which support energy and heart health.

The fruit in the jelly adds small amounts of antioxidants and natural sugars for quick energy. Eggs and milk in the cake contribute protein, calcium, and other nutrients that aid in bone and muscle health.

Using moderate portions can make this peanut butter and jelly cake a satisfying treat that delivers nutrients alongside its comforting flavors.

Expert Tips And Tricks

1. Make sure the cake pan is well-greased or lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2. Soften the peanut butter slightly before mixing so it blends smoothly into the batter.

3. Beat the eggs and milk with the other ingredients until fully incorporated to avoid lumps.

4. Poke holes while the cake is still warm so the jelly seeps evenly into the cake.

5. Let the cake cool completely before spreading whipped topping to prevent it from melting.

6. Warm extra jelly and peanut butter before drizzling to make it easier to pour.

Ideas To Extra Delicious Touches

➤ Swirled Jelly Layers – Before baking, add small dollops of jelly into the batter and gently swirl with a toothpick for pockets of fruity sweetness throughout the cake.

➤ Chopped Nuts – Sprinkle chopped peanuts or almonds on top of the cake or fold some into the batter for added crunch and a deeper nutty flavor.

➤ Chocolate Drizzle – Melt a little chocolate and drizzle over the whipped topping along with peanut butter and jelly for a rich, decadent twist.

➤ Caramel Accent – Add thin lines of caramel sauce over the top to create a sweet, buttery contrast to the peanut butter and jelly.

➤ Toasted Coconut – Lightly toast shredded coconut and sprinkle over the finished cake for a subtle texture and tropical hint that enhances the flavors.

Variations

◆ Grape Jelly Version – Swap strawberry jelly for grape jelly to give the cake a classic peanut butter and jelly flavor reminiscent of traditional sandwiches.

◆ Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake – Use a chocolate cake mix instead of yellow for a richer, more indulgent dessert with the same peanut butter and jelly filling.

◆ Crunchy Peanut Butter Cake – Replace creamy peanut butter with crunchy peanut butter to add texture and a nutty bite in every slice.

◆ Mini Cupcakes – Bake the batter in a muffin tin to make individual peanut butter and jelly cupcakes, perfect for parties or on-the-go treats.

◆ Layered Cake – Split the baked cake horizontally, spread jelly between the layers, and top with whipped topping for a more elegant, layered presentation.

Storage

This peanut butter and jelly cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. Keep it covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out and to maintain the whipped topping’s texture.

For longer storage, individual slices can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw frozen pieces in the refrigerator before serving.

Avoid leaving the peanut butter and jelly cake at room temperature for more than a few hours to protect the dairy in the whipped topping and keep the jelly from becoming too runny.

FAQs For Your Peanut Butter And Jelly Cake Recipe

Conclusion

This peanut butter and jelly cake is a healthy, comforting dessert that everyone can enjoy. Making it brings joy and satisfaction, and the balanced flavors of peanut butter, jelly, and soft cake appeal to all ages.

I have created this peanut butter and jelly cake to serve during special times, and every time I prepare it, I enjoy both the process and the result.

Sharing my easy method allows others to recreate it at home, bringing happiness to family and friends. I hope this peanut butter and jelly cake inspires you to make and enjoy it often.

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