Peanut Butter and Jelly Bundt Cake

There is something deeply comforting about the combination of peanut butter and jelly, and this cake turns that childhood favorite into something that feels both nostalgic and special. As the batter bakes, the aroma fills the kitchen with warm peanut notes and sweet fruit, and by the time it cools, you already know this one is going to disappear fast. Trust me, you’re going to love this from the very first slice.

A Sweet Twist on a Classic Favorite

This cake brings together two familiar flavors in a way that feels playful yet grown up. The tender crumb, the ribbons of jelly, and the nutty richness all come together in a dessert that feels cozy and joyful. It is the kind of cake that makes people smile before they even take a bite.

Where This Flavor Pairing Comes From

Peanut butter and jelly has long been a staple in American kitchens, loved for its simplicity and comfort. Turning it into a bundt cake is a natural evolution, transforming a lunchbox classic into a dessert worthy of the table. Over time, home bakers began experimenting with swirls, fillings, and glazes, and this version captures that spirit perfectly.

Why This Cake Always Works

Versatile: It fits right in at casual family dinners, bake sales, or relaxed celebrations where comfort matters most.
Budget-Friendly: Pantry staples and simple ingredients keep costs low without sacrificing flavor.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps make this approachable even on busy days.
Customizable: You can play with different jelly flavors to suit your mood.
Crowd-Pleasing: Familiar flavors mean almost everyone reaches for a slice.
Make-Ahead Friendly: It tastes even better the next day once the flavors settle.
Great for Leftovers: Slices stay moist and satisfying for days.

Baker’s Insider Advice

A few thoughtful touches can make all the difference when baking this cake. Paying attention to texture and timing helps ensure a tender crumb and beautiful swirl every time.

• Let the butter and eggs come fully to room temperature for smoother batter.
• Lightly warm the jelly so it swirls easily without sinking.
• Avoid overmixing once the flour is added to keep the cake soft.
• Cool the cake fully before glazing to prevent melting.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Want Nearby

Bundt Pan: Gives the cake its signature shape and even baking.
Mixing Bowls: Separate bowls help keep the batter smooth and controlled.
Hand or Stand Mixer: Makes creaming the butter and sugar effortless.
Spatula: Perfect for gentle folding and swirling.

Ingredients You Will Need For This Cake

The beauty of this dessert comes from how simple ingredients work together in harmony.

1. All Purpose Flour: 3 cups, provides structure and balance.
2. Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons, helps the cake rise evenly.
3. Salt: 0.5 teaspoon, sharpens all the flavors.
4. Unsalted Butter: 1 cup, softened, adds richness and moisture.
5. Creamy Peanut Butter: 1 cup, delivers the signature nutty depth.
6. Granulated Sugar: 1.5 cups, sweetens and helps with texture.
7. Eggs: 4 large, bind the batter and add lift.
8. Milk: 1 cup, keeps the crumb tender.
9. Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons, rounds out the sweetness.
10. Fruit Jelly: 0.75 cup, creates bright, fruity swirls.

Flexible Ingredient Swaps

Fruit Jelly: Any smooth jam like strawberry, grape, or raspberry works beautifully.
Milk: Can be replaced with lactose free milk if needed.
Creamy Peanut Butter: Use a smooth alternative with similar consistency.

Star Ingredients That Make the Difference

Creamy Peanut Butter: This adds richness without heaviness, creating a smooth and nutty base.
Fruit Jelly: The sweet contrast brings color, moisture, and playful bursts of flavor.

Let’s Bake Together

Now let’s dive into the heart of the process and bring this cake to life step by step.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease the bundt pan thoroughly.
2. Combine Ingredients: Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Cream butter, peanut butter, and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Assemble the Dish: Add eggs one at a time, then mix in milk and vanilla, followed by dry ingredients. Swirl warmed jelly gently through the batter.
5. Cook to Perfection: Pour into the pan and bake for 50 minutes until a tester comes out clean.
6. Finishing Touches: Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then invert and cool completely.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Slice and serve once fully cooled.

Texture and Flavor Magic

Each bite delivers a tender crumb balanced by creamy peanut butter and pockets of sweet jelly. The flavors deepen as the cake rests, creating a dessert that feels rich without being heavy.

Helpful Baking Tips

• Use a light hand when swirling to keep defined ribbons.
• Grease every curve of the pan carefully.
• Let the cake cool fully before slicing for clean cuts.

What to Avoid

• Overmixing the batter, which can make the cake dense.
• Adding cold ingredients straight from the fridge.
• Skipping proper pan greasing.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 420

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 70 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This cake keeps beautifully when wrapped tightly and stored at room temperature for two days or refrigerated for up to five days. It can also be frozen in slices and thawed gently.

How to Serve

Serve plain, with a dusting of powdered sugar, or alongside a glass of cold milk or coffee.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Turn slices into a trifle with whipped topping, or lightly toast and serve with fruit.

Additional Tips

A slightly warm slice brings out the peanut aroma even more.

Make It a Showstopper

Drizzle with a simple glaze and add a neat presentation plate to elevate the look.

Variations to Try

• Swap in raspberry jelly for a tart note.
• Add chopped peanuts for texture.
• Use chocolate drizzle for extra indulgence.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes, but it will change the texture slightly.

Q2: Does this cake freeze well?

Yes, slice and wrap tightly before freezing.

Q3: Can I use homemade jam?

Absolutely, as long as it is smooth.

Q4: How do I prevent sticking?

Grease the pan generously.

Q5: Can I make it dairy free?

Use lactose free milk and suitable butter alternatives.

Q6: What jelly flavor works best?

Strawberry and grape are classics.

Q7: Can I reduce sugar?

Slight reductions are possible but may affect texture.

Q8: Why did my jelly sink?

It may have been too warm or overmixed.

Q9: Can I bake this in advance?

Yes, it tastes even better the next day.

Q10: Is this kid friendly?

Very much so.

Conclusion

This cake brings comfort, nostalgia, and pure joy to the table. Let me tell you, it’s worth every bite, and once you try it, it may just become a regular in your baking rotation.

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