Peanut Butter Jelly Time!!

Hey guys! So, I'm sitting here on a Friday night totally wasting my time playing those silly games on Facebook. Isn't it sad how you sit down with innocent intentions to "only play for a few minutes" and the next thing you know its two hours later and you can't remember how long your foot has been asleep? Yeah, guilty. And this isn't the first time. (Shame)

I found myself in a similar situation last Friday. I live an exciting life, huh? Either way, it always leads me to wanting to do something productive. But, it's was 11 PM and in Fairfield, that means everything is closing. Totally lame. And since I'm crazy, the house was spotless and the laundry was done and I wasn't quite sure I was ready to pull out Moby Dick again. So, I looked up from my keyboard and there in front of me lay the answer. Ina Garten's Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars!

First, let me say, Ina Garten is sensational. Her recipes are easy, accessible for the novice baker/ chef, and tested rigorously. I have never had a bad result cooking something of hers. Second, they are ALWAYS delicious! no, seriously, words can't describe. But best of all, you never fail to look like a star! She has a roast Chicken Recipe that is now referred to as "Engagement Chicken". How's that for you?

Anywho, I've been wanting to make these things forever. Even my grandparents were tempted. I was worried, however, for two reasons. One, whenever I hear the words bar I hope for soft, chewy goodness. All too often, the result is a dry sponge. Two, I have never actually has a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. I hear the gasps and save your shock. I wasn't deprived, just a picky eater. And I'm glad. Because that meant I got to judge these bars bias free.


And O M G! They were Heaven!! And easy. Seriously. The entire house smelled like a dream. They were so, so soft and chewy. I ate them warm out of the oven with a huge glass of cold milk. (I couldn't wait) And the entire 13x9 pan was gone in 48. My grandma said she couldn't have done better herself. My heart swells! (Sighs)  Below is a link for the recipe. I recommend making them immediately and sharing them with everyone you know.

I do have a couple of tips not included by Ina. One, once you mix the wet ingredients, stir in the dry by hand. Unless you have a stand mixer that is. The "batter" is more like a dough and very thick. My hand mixer threatened to break up with me. Two, spread the dough with your hands. Its much easier. Three, any kind of jelly works but do use the amount it says. I used a 12oz jar instead of an 18oz jar and it was lacking. Lastly, I used Jif peanut butter. And while they were great for me, my grandpa thought they were a little rich. Don't use less! If peanut butter or richness is something you don't jive on, just use Skippy like Ina suggets.

Enjoy and happy eatings!

Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars

P.S. When I looked for this recipe online (I got my recipe from her book Barefoot Contessa At Home), I look and found it was the exact same as Martha Stewart's. Food Network's Chefography noted that Ina Garten was chiefly mentored by Stewart.