Air-Fried Pb&J: A Quick, Crispy Comfort Snack

Air fryer PB&J is a modern twist on a classic sandwich, with a crispy exterior and a hot, gooey filling. It is a quick and easy recipe that will be ready in just 10 minutes and is sure to be a delight for both kids and adults. Here's how to make this indulgent treat.

Choosing the right bread

The bread you choose for your air-fried PB&J can make or break the sandwich. Opting for a bread that crisps up nicely in the air fryer is essential to achieving that perfect crunch while keeping the sandwich tender on the inside. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right bread:

• Type of bread: White bread, whole wheat bread, brioche, and sourdough bread are all great options for air-fried PB&J sandwiches. These varieties tend to crisp up nicely without becoming too hard or dry. They also pair well with the flavours of peanut butter and jelly.
• Thickness: Choose a bread that is thick enough to withstand the air-frying process without becoming too crispy or hard. A thick-sliced bread will provide a heartier base for your sandwich and help prevent the filling from oozing out.
• Freshness: Using fresh, high-quality bread is key to a great air-fried PB&J. Stale bread may become too dry or brittle in the air fryer, so opt for bread that is freshly baked or frozen and thawed.
• Texture: Consider the texture of the bread and how it will complement the creamy peanut butter and jelly filling. A bread with a slightly chewy texture can provide a nice contrast to the softness of the filling.
• Taste: Choose a bread that has a mild or neutral flavour that won't overpower the peanut butter and jelly. A hint of sweetness in the bread can enhance the overall flavour of the sandwich.
• Size: Select a bread size that fits well within your air fryer. You may need to trim the crusts to ensure the sandwich fits properly, so choosing a larger slice can give you more flexibility.
• Nutritional value: If you're conscious about nutrition, consider the nutritional profile of the bread. Opt for whole wheat bread for added fibre or go for a bread with added grains or seeds for extra nutrients.
• Allergies and dietary restrictions: Keep in mind any allergies or dietary restrictions when choosing the bread. For gluten intolerance, for example, you can opt for gluten-free bread.

By considering these factors, you can choose the perfect bread for your air-fried PB&J sandwich, ensuring a delicious and satisfying experience.

Peanut butter and jelly filling

The peanut butter and jelly filling is the heart and soul of your sandwich. You can use creamy, crunchy, or chunky peanut butter, or even swap it out for almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter. If you're feeling adventurous, try a gourmet nut butter like almond or cashew butter, or explore unique preserves for a twist on the classic.

For the jelly, opt for a fruity flavour that will provide a sweet and tangy contrast to the peanut butter. Classic grape or strawberry jelly is always a great choice, but you can also experiment with different flavours like raspberry or apricot. You can even try something outside the box, like peach jelly!

When preparing your filling, be sure to spread the peanut butter and jelly evenly on each slice of bread. Don't overstuff the sandwich, as this can make it messy and challenging to cook evenly. If you want to get creative, try layering the peanut butter and jelly on both slices of bread to ensure every bite is packed with flavour.

For an extra touch of sweetness, consider sprinkling a pinch of cinnamon or drizzling a bit of honey over the filling. You can even add sliced bananas or chocolate chips for a delightful combination of flavours and textures.

Butter the bread

To make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich in an air fryer, you'll need to start by buttering the bread. First, take your butter and spread a thin layer onto one side of each slice of bread. You can use softened butter to make this process easier. Make sure you don't miss any spots, as the butter will help the bread crisp up and turn a delicious golden brown.

When buttering the bread, it's important to be mindful of how much butter you're using. Too much butter can make the sandwich greasy, while too little butter might not give you the desired crispness. A thin, even layer is all you need to create the perfect crunchy exterior for your sandwich.

The type of bread you use can also make a difference in the final result. White bread, whole wheat bread, brioche, and sourdough are all great options that will give you a nice crunch while keeping the sandwich tender on the inside.

Once you've buttered both slices of bread, it's time to move on to the next step of making your peanut butter and jelly sandwich in the air fryer. Remember, the buttered side of the bread will be the outside of your sandwich, so make sure to keep that in mind as you assemble the rest of the ingredients.

Now that you've buttered the bread, you're well on your way to enjoying a warm and crispy peanut butter and jelly sandwich straight from your air fryer!

Air-frying the sandwich

Next, lightly butter the outsides of the sandwich or spray them with cooking spray. This step is optional but will add extra flavour and texture, giving the sandwich a crispy, grilled effect. Place the sandwich in the air fryer basket and cook for 3–7 minutes, flipping the sandwich halfway through. The sandwich is ready when the bread is golden brown and the filling is hot all the way through.

If you're cooking more than one sandwich, ensure they are arranged in a single layer and not overcrowded for even cooking.

Serving suggestions

The air fryer PB&J is a versatile dish that can be served as a snack, a quick meal, or even a dessert. Here are some ideas to elevate your air fryer PB&J experience:

• Sides and Accompaniments: Serve your air fryer PB&J with a side of air fryer apple slices, or a refreshing cottage cheese edible salad. For a more indulgent treat, pair it with 3-ingredient peanut butter balls or brownie batter. You can also offer some crispy air fryer prosciutto and mozzarella grilled cheese on the side.
• Creative Fillings: Experiment with different fillings to add a twist to your sandwich. Try the classic combination of peanut butter and banana, or go for Nutella with fresh strawberry slices for a chocolatey fruit twist. For a more savory option, add crispy bacon strips to your PB&J.
• Toppings and Drizzles: After air frying, drizzle some honey over your sandwich for added sweetness. Alternatively, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or a cinnamon-sugar mixture on the bread before assembling the sandwich for a warm, sweet aroma.
• Gourmet Options: Explore gourmet nut butter options such as almond, cashew, or sunflower seed butter, and pair them with artisanal fruit preserves for a sophisticated PB&J experience.
• Dessert Mode: Turn your PB&J into a dessert by using dessert spreads like cookie butter or caramel sauce instead of jelly. Take it a step further by adding a scoop of ice cream on top for an indulgent, sweet treat.
• Presentation: Cut your air fryer PB&J diagonally or into halves before serving. For a fun presentation, use cookie cutters to create fun shapes with the sandwich.

Frequently asked questions