A Curiously Delicious Homemade Peanut Butter and Jelly Ice Cream

Last Updated on August 29, 2024 by Cherie

Celebrate the nostalgia of this classic sandwich with our Homemade Peanut Butter and Jelly Ice Cream!

Peanut Butter and Jelly: a classic American combination. This much-loved duo has been enjoyed by people for generations, and now we’re taking it to another level with a homemade ice cream twist.

Get ready to bring back childhood memories and enjoy the curiously delicious combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet, fruity jelly in every frozen spoonful.

In this article, we’ll talk about the history of this yummy combo, and the health perks, and of course, we’ll show you how you can make your own easy homemade peanut butter & jelly ice cream.

If you’d prefer you can go directly to the recipes we have shared by clicking on the following links:
Jump to Homemade Peanut Butter and Jelly Ice Cream Recipe
Jump to Make Your Own Peanut Butter Recipe
Jump to Make Your Own Jelly Recipe

Peanut Butter and Jelly!

The famous combination of peanut butter and jelly started in early 20th-century America.

Peanut butter was already popular by the late 1800s, but when grape jelly became available in stores in the early 1900s, it made the classic Peanut Butter and Jelly combo possible.

Both peanut butter and jelly were affordable and easy to use, so they became common in American homes.

Their tasty combination of nutty and fruity flavours, and the simplicity of making sandwiches with them, quickly made them a favourite among kids and adults.

Since then, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches have become a cherished part of American food culture, inspiring creative versions that keep celebrating this timeless pairing.

Peanut Butter Health Benefits.

Peanut butter offers a range of health benefits:

Nutrient-Rich: Peanut butter is packed with essential nutrients like protein, healthy fats, fibre, vitamins (such as vitamin E and B vitamins), and minerals (such as magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus).

Heart Health: The monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats in peanut butter can help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Protein Source: Peanut butter is an excellent plant-based source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health.

Rich in Antioxidants: It contains antioxidants like resveratrol, which may help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation.

Blood Sugar Control: The combination of protein and healthy fats in peanut butter can help stabilise blood sugar levels and provide sustained energy.

Weight Management: The fibre and protein in peanut butter can contribute to feelings of fullness, making it a satisfying snack that can help with weight management.

Bone Health: The magnesium and phosphorus in peanut butter support bone health and maintenance.

Nutrient Absorption: The healthy fats in peanut butter can aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin E.

Brain Health: Peanut butter contains nutrients like folate and vitamin E that are associated with brain health and cognitive function.

Plant Compounds: Peanut butter contains plant compounds like p-coumaric acid, which may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

It’s important to choose natural peanut butter without added sugars or unhealthy oils to fully reap these benefits. Additionally, portion control is key, as peanut butter is calorie-dense.

Note for Peanut Intolerances: If you or anyone enjoying your homemade treats has a peanut intolerance or allergy, it’s essential to exercise caution. Peanut butter is a common ingredient in these recipes and may pose a risk to those with allergies. Always check labels, opt for alternatives like almond or sunflower butter, and ensure your kitchen tools are thoroughly cleaned to prevent cross-contamination. Safety comes first!

PB&J – Jelly or Jam?

In the context of PB&J sandwiches, the term “jelly” used in the US is essentially equivalent to what is known as “jam” in the UK.

Both “jelly” and “jam” refer to a sweet spread made from fruit that has been cooked down with sugar to create a thick and flavourful consistency. The main difference between the two lies in the texture and preparation process.

“Jelly” typically has a smoother, more translucent texture because it’s made from fruit juice, while “jam” contains crushed or chopped fruit, resulting in a slightly chunkier texture.

So, when referring to jelly in a PB&J sandwich, it’s the sweet fruit spread that complements the peanut butter.

Classic PB&J Jelly.

It’s not just any jelly needed for a classic PB&J sandwich!

When it comes to making a classic Peanut Butter and Jelly (PB&J) sandwich, the type of jelly or jam you use can significantly impact the flavour and texture of the sandwich.

Here are some popular choices for jelly or jam to pair with peanut butter:

Grape Jelly: This is perhaps the most iconic choice for a PB&J sandwich. The sweet and slightly tart flavour of grape jelly complements the rich and nutty taste of peanut butter.

Strawberry Jam: Strawberry jam offers a natural sweetness and a hint of tartness that contrasts nicely with the creaminess of peanut butter.

Raspberry Jam: With its bold and slightly tangy flavour, raspberry jam adds a delightful twist to the classic combination.

Blueberry Jam: Blueberry jam brings a burst of fruity sweetness to the sandwich and pairs well with the nutty taste of peanut butter.

Mixed Berry Jam: Combining a medley of berries like strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries creates a vibrant and complex flavour profile.

Apricot Jam: For those who enjoy a slightly more exotic flavour, apricot jam offers a delicate sweetness that harmonises with peanut butter.

Blackberry Jam: Blackberry jam provides a rich and intense berry flavour that can stand up to the boldness of peanut butter.

You can opt for traditional options or experiment with gourmet or homemade varieties to create a unique and satisfying combination. Remember to choose options that align with your dietary preferences and any potential allergies or sensitivities.

PB&J – The Evolution from Sandwich to Ice Cream.

Well, we’ve had the evolution of an Ice Cream sandwich, so it’s only right to take the classic PB&J sandwich and transform it into an ice cream, right?

The classic Peanut Butter and Jelly (PB&J) combo, famous for its tasty combination of flavours and textures, and nostalgia in a sandwich, is now getting a makeover! Peanut Butter and Jelly Ice Cream, a frozen treat that combines these beloved flavours in a whole new way. Capturing the essence of the PB&J sandwich, but in a frozen format, provides a new layer of taste sensation by bringing in the freeze.

Peanut Butter & Jelly Ice Cream Remix

With our passion for experimentation, we constantly explore intriguing flavour unions that transform into delicious homemade ice creams.

Some fusions are entirely innovative, like our Bacon and Maple Syrup Homemade Ice Cream, while others pay homage to timeless pairings, evoking waves of nostalgia, such as our Cherry Bakewell Homemade Ice Cream.

It’s only fitting that we’ve turned our attention to the classic PB&J combo to create a tantalising frozen treat that is both scrumptious and comforting. And guess what? It really works!

PB&J Dreamy Delight: Crafting Irresistible Peanut Butter Ice Cream.

It’s always a worry taking a classic, such as a PB&J sandwich, and changing anything. After all, it’s a classic for a reason, right? The familiarity of that timeless combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet jelly nestled between two slices of bread carries a sense of comfort and nostalgia to many, that’s hard to match.

But every now and then, it’s worth exploring a modern twist on those beloved flavours, just to see where the boundaries of deliciousness can be pushed.

In that spirit, we couldn’t help ourselves but give this one a try – to reimagine the PB&J magic in the form of delicious homemade ice cream. The result?

The adaptation is actually refreshingly good. The combination of the salty peanut, the fruity zing from the jelly and the coolness of Ice Cream is a wonderful combination and embraces the classic PB&J in a very unlikely, yet extremely palatable way.

Homemade Peanut Butter and Jelly Ice Cream

Here is our recipe and method for making Homemade Peanut Butter and Jelly Ice Cream using Grape Jelly in this instance.

Ingredients:

• 250ml double cream
• 125ml whole milk
• 70g granulated sugar
• 90g creamy peanut butter – smooth or crunchy whichever is your preferred option (see below for instructions on how to make your own peanut butter)
• 65g grape jelly (see below for instructions on how to make your own jelly)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

• In a saucepan, combine the double cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar.
• Gently heat the mixture in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved. Do not let the mixture boil.
• Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in the creamy peanut butter until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
• Allow the mixture to cool down to room temperature, then cover it and refrigerate for at least 2-4 hours, or overnight. This step is essential for better flavour development.
• Once chilled, stir in the vanilla extract.
• Pour the mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
  • NB: If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can still make this recipe. Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and freeze. Every 30 minutes, stir the mixture vigorously with a fork to break up ice crystals, repeating this process for about 3-4 hours or until the ice cream is firm. Please also check out our post – How to Make Homemade Ice Cream: Without an Ice Cream Maker to learn more hints and tips.
• While the ice cream is churning, gently warm the grape jelly in a microwave or on the stovetop just until it’s slightly loosened and easier to work with.
• Transfer the churned ice cream into a freezer-safe container, layering it with dollops of grape jelly.
• Use a spoon to gently swirl the grape jelly into the ice cream, creating a marbled or rippled effect.
• Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap and freeze for an additional 4-6 hours, or until the ice cream is firm.
• When ready to serve, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before scooping and enjoying the creamy, peanut buttery, and grape jelly goodness!

Our Peanut Butter and Grape Jelly Ice Cream captures the iconic flavours of the classic PB&J sandwich in a delicious frozen treat. Enjoy its rich and indulgent taste, and savour the nostalgia of this timeless combination in a whole new way.

NB: If you’re not so keen on the addition of jelly, you can head on over to our post – Homemade Peanut Butter Ice Cream – which will provide you with detailed information on how you can make a delicious Homemade Peanut Butter Ice Cream without any addition of jelly.

We hope you enjoy crafting this classic Peanut Butter and Jelly Ice Cream in the comfort of your own kitchen, but if you’re struggling with the fact it’s not a PB&J sandwich, then head on over to our post – Learn to Craft Perfect Ice Cream Sandwiches – where we provide a step-by-step guide to making ice cream sandwiches. So you can still have your PB&J Ice Cream Sandwich!

We’d love to know how you get on, so please do drop us a comment below.

Make Your Own Peanut Butter.

Of course, you can easily purchase a jar of Peanut Butter, however, we are always happier making our own as this gives us the confidence of knowing exactly what’s in our peanut butter. Our philosophy of homemade, knowing exactly what goes into the food we are eating is equally important here too.

Making your own peanut butter is actually very easy and allows you to customise the flavour and texture to your preference. Literally 1-2 ingredients.

Here’s a simple homemade peanut butter recipe:

Ingredients:

• 250g unsalted roasted peanuts (you can use raw peanuts and roast them yourself)
• 1-2 tablespoons neutral oil (like peanut, vegetable, or sunflower oil)
• Optional: sweetener (honey, maple syrup) and salt to taste

Instructions:

• Roasting the Peanuts (optional but recommended):
  • Preheat your oven to 175°C.
  • Spread the peanuts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  • Roast in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, checking and shaking the pan occasionally to ensure even roasting. You want the peanuts to be golden brown and aromatic. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can burn quickly.
• Blending the Peanuts:
  • Once the roasted peanuts have cooled slightly, transfer them to a food processor or high-powered blender.
  • Start blending on low speed and gradually increase to high. Scrape down the sides of the container as needed.
  • The peanuts will go through different stages: first, they’ll become crumbly, then they’ll form a thick paste, and finally, they’ll become smooth and creamy. This can take about 5-10 minutes, depending on your machine and your desired texture.
• Adjusting the Consistency:
  • If the peanut butter seems too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of oil gradually to achieve your preferred consistency.
  • If you’d like sweeter peanut butter, you can add a touch of honey or maple syrup. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
• Seasoning (optional):
  • You can also add a pinch of salt if desired. This will enhance the flavour of the peanut butter.
• Storage:
  • Transfer the homemade peanut butter to a clean and airtight jar. It can be stored at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for several weeks.
• Enjoy:
  • Use your homemade peanut butter in sandwiches, on toast, in smoothies, as a dip for fruits and vegetables or of course, in your Homemade Peanut Butter and Jelly Ice cream.

Feel free to experiment with the process to find your perfect peanut butter consistency and flavour.

Homemade peanut butter tends to be more natural and flavourful compared to store-bought varieties, and most importantly you have control over the ingredients.

Please note that homemade peanut butter may separate over time with the oil rising to the top. Just give it a good stir before using it.

Enjoy your homemade peanut butter!

Make Your Own Jelly.

Of course, you can simply buy a jar of jelly, whatever flavour you’d like from the list we’ve provided above, but we are always happier making our own sauces, coulis or jellies.

The same principle applies to our Homemade Ice Cream – we know exactly what goes in it, and we can tailor the taste to our exact requirements.

Making grape jelly is a relatively straightforward process. Here’s a basic recipe:

Ingredients:

• 500g of fresh grapes (seedless)
• 185g of granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• 1 packet of powdered fruit pectin (usually 50g)

Instructions:

• Wash the grapes thoroughly and remove them from the stems. You should have about 500g of grapes.
• Place the grapes in a large pot and use a potato masher or a fork to crush them. You want to release the juices and break down the grapes.
• Bring the crushed grapes to a simmer over medium heat. Let them simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Strain the grape mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to separate the juice from the pulp and seeds. You should have about 375g of grape juice.
• Return the grape juice to the pot and stir in the lemon juice. Bring it to a simmer.
• In a separate bowl, mix the powdered fruit pectin with about 30g of the sugar to prevent clumping.
• Gradually add the pectin-sugar mixture to the simmering grape juice while stirring constantly. Continue stirring until the mixture comes to a rolling boil.
• Once the mixture is boiling, add the remaining sugar all at once. Stir well to dissolve the sugar completely.
• Allow the mixture to boil for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
• Remove the pot from the heat and skim off any foam that may have formed on the surface.
• Carefully pour the hot grape jelly into clean, sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars clean with a damp cloth.
• Place the lids on the jars and tighten the bands. You can process the jars in a water bath canner according to proper canning guidelines, or you can refrigerate the jars for short-term storage.
• Let the grape jelly cool and set for several hours or overnight before using.

Note: This is a basic grape jelly recipe. You can adjust the sugar and lemon juice quantities based on your taste preferences and the sweetness of the grapes. Always follow proper canning and food safety guidelines if you plan to store the jelly at room temperature.

We truly hope you have enjoyed learning about our recipe for making a twist on the classic Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich. Our Homemade Ice Cream version we think is way better! ;o)

Do drop us a comment below if you have any questions and we would love to hear from you if you do give this recipe a try.

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