There is something about PB&J that is soothing to the soul.
Did we ALL have that little sammy growing up?
Do kids STILL indulge in the treat, any time, any way? (Or do “peanut allergies” get in the way of growing up now?
Either way. We all know how this goes – peanut butter and jelly are delicious – graham crackers are amazing – dessert is necessary. Let’s just do it all: Peanut Butter & Jelly Dessert Bars.
You ARE WELCOME!
Peanut Butter & Jelly Dessert Bars
Crust:
8 Tbs. butter, melted
2 cups graham cracker crumbs
Strawberry Jelly (Preserves) Layer:
14 oz. organic strawberry preserves
Peanut Butter Layer:
16 oz. vanilla frosting
16 oz. all natural CRUNCHY peanut butter
3 large eggs
Topping:
Fresh strawberries
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.
Combine the melted butter and graham cracker crumbs and press into a parchment lined quick release pan.
Bake for 15 minutes, until fragrant.
Remove from the oven and cool.
Spread the strawberry preserves over the cooled crust.
Cool again for 60 minutes.
Reduce oven temperature to 250 degrees.
Meanwhile, beat together the vanilla frosting (canned is fine), crunchy peanut butter, and eggs until smooth.
Spread over the cooled preserves.
Bake at 250 degrees (on a cookies sheet) for 1 hour, until the peanut butter filling is set.
Chill in the fridge for several hours or overnight.
Top with fresh strawberry slices.
Slice into squares to share, or not.
It’s better than a PB&J, but reminiscent and equally spectacular for your heart and soul.
