Peanut Butter and Jelly Crumb Muffins.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Crumb Muffins are the ultimate nostalgic treat reimagined into a delightful breakfast or snack option. These muffins combine the rich, nutty flavor of creamy peanut butter with the sweet, fruity burst of strawberry preserves, all topped with a buttery, cinnamon-spiced crumb. Whether you’re craving a comforting start to your day or a midday pick-me-up, these muffins deliver on taste and texture. They’re soft, moist, and crumbly, making every bite an irresistible balance of flavors. Let’s dive into what makes these muffins a kitchen favorite and how you can bring this classic combo to life in your own home.

Why Cooks Rave About It

Peanut Butter and Jelly Crumb Muffins have quickly become a staple in many baking repertoires for several reasons. First, the combination of peanut butter and jelly is timeless, evoking childhood memories while offering a sophisticated twist in muffin form. The crumb topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the tender crumb beneath. Cooks love how this recipe is straightforward yet impressive, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned bakers. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile — you can swap out the jelly for any fruit preserve you love or tweak the spices to suit your palate. The balance of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors keeps everyone coming back for more.

Your Shopping Guide

• Unsalted Butter: Essential for controlling salt levels and creating a rich crumb topping.
• Peanut Butter: Use smooth or crunchy, depending on your texture preference.
• All-Purpose Flour: The base for the muffins and crumb topping, provides structure.
• Baking Soda: The leavening agent that helps the muffins rise beautifully.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the muffins and crumb.
• Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the crumb topping.
• Large Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
• Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture, especially in the muffin batter and crumb.
• Vanilla Extract: Amplifies the flavor profile with its sweet aroma.
• Milk: Keeps the batter moist and tender.
• Strawberry Preserves: The fruity filling that pairs perfectly with peanut butter.
• Granulated Sugar: Used in the crumb topping for added crunch.

Cook’s Kit

• Muffin Tin: Essential for shaping and baking the muffins evenly.
• Mixing Bowls: One for wet ingredients, one for dry, and one for the crumb topping.
• Electric Mixer or Whisk: To blend ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
• Spatula: For folding ingredients gently without deflating the batter.
• Spoon or Scoop: To evenly distribute batter and preserves.
• Cooling Rack: To cool muffins properly and avoid sogginess.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Crumb Muffins.: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Crumb Topping

In a medium bowl, combine 1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Pour in 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter and stir until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. Set aside while you prepare the muffin batter.

Step 2: Make the Muffin Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat 6 tablespoons unsalted butter and 3/4 cup peanut butter together until smooth and creamy. Add 1/2 cup packed brown sugar and continue to beat until fluffy. Then, add 1 large egg and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually add 3/4 cup milk and mix until combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix – a few lumps are okay.

Step 5: Assemble the Muffins

Spoon a tablespoon of batter into each muffin cup. Add about a teaspoon of strawberry preserves on top of the batter, then cover with the remaining batter, filling cups about 3/4 full. Generously sprinkle the crumb topping over each muffin.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The crumb topping should be golden and crisp. Remove from oven and let muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

In-Season Swaps

• Berry Preserves: Swap strawberry preserves with raspberry, blueberry, or blackberry preserves for a fresh seasonal twist.
• Nut Butters: Try almond or cashew butter if you want a different nutty flavor.
• Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for extra warmth in the crumb topping.
• Milk Alternatives: Use almond milk, oat milk, or any plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
• Sweeteners: Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar or maple sugar for a different sweetness profile.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Muffins Are Too Dense: Make sure to measure the flour correctly by spooning it into the cup and leveling it off rather than scooping directly.
• Crumb Topping Falls Off: Press the crumb topping lightly onto the batter before baking to help it adhere better.
• Muffins Don’t Rise: Check the freshness of your baking soda and avoid overmixing the batter which can lead to dense muffins.
• Preserves Sink to Bottom: Dollop preserves on top of the batter and cover immediately with more batter to prevent sinking.

Prep Ahead & Store

You can prepare the crumb topping and muffin batter a day ahead. Store the batter tightly covered in the refrigerator and the crumb topping in an airtight container. Assemble and bake the next day for fresh muffins. Leftover muffins keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or toaster oven before serving for that fresh-baked taste.

Reader Questions

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of regular peanut butter?

Yes, natural peanut butter works well, but it might make the batter a bit less creamy. Make sure to stir the peanut butter well before measuring to incorporate any oils.

Are these muffins suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! These muffins freeze beautifully. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature or warm them up gently before eating.

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. Be sure to check the blend’s instructions as some may require adjustments in liquid.

What’s the best way to prevent the crumb topping from burning?

If you notice the crumb topping browning too quickly, you can tent the muffins loosely with foil halfway through baking to protect the topping while allowing the muffins to cook fully.

You Might Also Like

• Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars by Sally’s Baking Addiction
• Peanut Butter and Jelly Smoothie by Pinch of Yum
• Peanut Butter and Jelly Toast by Minimalist Baker
• Strawberry Jam Muffins by Sally’s Baking Addiction

Next Steps

Now that you’ve mastered these Peanut Butter and Jelly Crumb Muffins, try experimenting with your favorite jam flavors or nut butters to create personalized versions. Host a brunch or pack these muffins for a grab-and-go snack. They also make a wonderful gift when wrapped in parchment and tied with twine. Don’t forget to share your baking results on social media and tag your friends who would love a bite of this nostalgic treat!

Peanut Butter and Jelly Crumb Muffins are a delicious way to bring a comforting classic into your baking routine, with a crumbly, buttery twist that makes every bite special. Happy baking!

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