The Perfect Cheese To Compliment Peanut Butter And Jelly

The combination of peanut butter and jelly in a sandwich is a classic, but what happens when you throw cheese into the mix? The result is a delicious combination of sweet and savoury flavours. This unique sandwich is perfect for those who are feeling adventurous and want to try something new. While it might sound like an odd pairing, the sharpness of cheddar cheese pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness of the jelly and the creaminess of the peanut butter. To elevate this sandwich even further, try using different types of bread, such as sourdough or cinnamon raisin bread, and experiment with various flavours of jelly, such as blueberry or strawberry. So, if you're looking for a new lunch idea or just want to indulge in a tasty treat, why not give the peanut butter, jelly, and cheese sandwich a try?

Best bread for a peanut butter, jelly, and cheese sandwich

There are many opinions on what the best bread for a peanut butter and jelly sandwich is, and when you add cheese to the equation, the options may become even more diverse. Here are some suggestions for the best bread to use when making a peanut butter, jelly, and cheese sandwich:

Sourdough

Sourdough bread is a popular choice for grilled cheese sandwiches due to its ability to achieve the perfect level of crispiness. Its slightly tangy flavour can also complement the sweetness of the peanut butter and jelly. However, some people may find the crust too thick and hard, making it challenging to bite into. If you choose sourdough, look for a loaf with a thinner crust.

White Bread

White bread is a classic choice for peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. Its soft and subtle sweetness pairs well with the other ingredients. It also provides a nice contrast to the sharpness of cheddar cheese. Choose thick slices of crusty white bread for a grilled sandwich or go for the traditional soft, squishy variety.

Cinnamon Raisin Bread

Cinnamon raisin bread adds a touch of sweetness and a unique flavour to the sandwich. It pairs especially well with creamy cheeses like brie and can enhance the overall taste experience.

Brioche

Brioche bread has a rich, buttery flavour and a soft, fluffy texture that can complement the other ingredients in the sandwich. It is a slightly sweeter option that can elevate the flavours of the peanut butter and jelly.

Potato Bread

Potato bread is another popular choice for peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. It has a soft texture and a slightly sweet flavour that can balance the savoury and salty elements of the sandwich.

Japanese Milk Bread

For a unique option, consider Japanese milk bread. It is known for its soft and fluffy texture, making it perfect for sandwiches. Its subtle sweetness can also enhance the overall flavour profile of the sandwich.

Ultimately, the best bread for a peanut butter, jelly, and cheese sandwich may depend on personal preference. Experiment with different types of bread and find the one that suits your taste buds the most!

Best cheese to pair with peanut butter and jelly

The classic combination of peanut butter and jelly can be taken to the next level by adding cheese to the mix. This creates a delicious blend of sweet and savoury flavours, with the saltiness of the cheese complementing the sweetness of the jelly.

Cheddar

Cheddar is a popular choice for a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. It adds a sharp, salty flavour that balances the sweetness of the jelly. When making a grilled sandwich, shredded cheddar melts well and creates a gooey texture. For the best melting results, use a block of sharp cheddar cheese rather than pre-sliced or shredded cheese.

Brie

For a more indulgent option, brie pairs well with peanut butter and jelly. Its creamy texture and mild flavour can complement the other ingredients without overwhelming them. Try using cinnamon raisin bread with brie, peanut butter, and apricot preserves for an extra touch of sweetness.

Goat Cheese

Goat cheese has a tangy and creamy flavour that can add an interesting twist to a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. It is a good option for those who want to experiment with different flavours. White bread with goat cheese, peanut butter, and blueberry preserves is a recommended combination.

Mascarpone

Mascarpone cheese is another creamy option that can enhance the sweetness of the jelly. It has a rich and smooth texture that can elevate the overall taste experience. Brioche bread with mascarpone, peanut butter, and strawberry preserves creates an extra indulgent sandwich.

Tips for Grilling

When making a grilled peanut butter and jelly cheese sandwich, it is important to use the right technique. Lightly buttering the bread or spraying it with oil before grilling can create a crispy and golden crust. Grilling the sandwich over medium to medium-low heat for a few minutes on each side will ensure that the cheese melts and the bread becomes golden brown.

Best peanut butter for a peanut butter, jelly, and cheese sandwich

A peanut butter, jelly, and cheese sandwich is a unique combination of sweet and savoury flavours. The best peanut butter for this sandwich will depend on your personal preference, but here are some options to consider:

Creamy Peanut Butter

A creamy peanut butter will provide a smooth texture and spread easily on your bread. Some popular options include:

• Jif Creamy Peanut Butter: This peanut butter has a strong peanut flavour with a hint of sweetness and saltiness. It is widely available in US grocery stores and is affordable, making it a great option for those on a budget.
• Trader Joe's Creamy No-Stir Peanut Butter Spread: This peanut butter has a smooth and creamy texture with a strong natural peanut flavour. It is a good choice for those who want a more prominent peanut taste.
• Reese's Creamy Peanut Butter: This peanut butter has a runnier texture and is less emulsified than other brands. It has a natural peanut flavour and is a good option for snacking or adding to recipes.

Crunchy Peanut Butter

If you prefer a more textured sandwich, you can opt for a crunchy peanut butter. Here are some choices:

• Jif Extra Crunchy Peanut Butter: This peanut butter is aggressively chunky, providing a lot of peanut bits in each bite. It still spreads well on toast and has a good balance of sweetness and saltiness.
• Earth Balance Crunchy Peanut & Flaxseed Spread: This peanut butter is both super creamy and filled with large, evenly distributed chunks of peanut. It has a well-balanced sweet and salty flavour.
• Great Value Honey Roasted Creamy Peanut Butter: This peanut butter is on the sweeter side, making it a great option if you want a dessert-like sandwich. It has a sticky texture and pairs well with white bread.

When making a peanut butter, jelly, and cheese sandwich, it is important to consider the other ingredients you will be using. The type of jelly or cheese you choose may work better with a specific type of peanut butter. For example, a sharp cheddar cheese may pair well with a creamy peanut butter to balance the textures.

Additionally, the bread you use can also make a difference. Sourdough bread is often recommended for grilled cheese sandwiches, but you can also use thick slices of crusty white bread or brioche.

Best jelly for a peanut butter, jelly, and cheese sandwich

A peanut butter, jelly, and cheese sandwich is a fun twist on the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich. This combination may sound unusual, but it's a delicious blend of sweet and savoury flavours. The key to this sandwich is the interplay between the salty, sharp cheese and the sweet jelly.

When it comes to choosing the best jelly for this sandwich, there are a few options that pair well with the peanut butter and cheese. The most traditional choices are strawberry or grape jelly. These classic flavours complement the peanut butter and provide a sweet contrast to the savoury cheese. Strawberry jelly lends a bright, fruity note, while grape jelly adds a slightly more mellow, tangy flavour.

However, you can also experiment with other jelly flavours to create unique taste profiles. Blueberry jelly, for instance, offers a sweet and slightly tart flavour that pairs beautifully with the peanut butter and cheese. If you're feeling adventurous, apple jelly is another excellent option, providing a refreshing, crisp taste that cuts through the richness of the sandwich. Marionberry or blackberry preserves also work well, adding a touch of sweetness with a hint of tanginess.

For an extra indulgent treat, consider using mascarpone cheese with strawberry preserves on brioche bread. Alternatively, cinnamon raisin bread with brie cheese and apricot preserves is a mouthwatering combination. If you prefer a simpler approach, white bread with creamy peanut butter, sharp cheddar, and blueberry preserves is always a winning trio.

When assembling your sandwich, spread butter on the outside of the bread slices and place them butter-side down in a hot pan. Add the cheese to one slice, and on the other, spread a layer of peanut butter and your chosen jelly. Close the sandwich and grill until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.

So, while the classic strawberry and grape jellies are always a safe bet, don't be afraid to experiment with other jelly flavours to find your perfect combination. The versatility of this sandwich is part of what makes it so enjoyable, offering something for every taste.

Best alternatives to peanut butter in a peanut butter, jelly, and cheese sandwich

While peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are a classic, peanut allergies are common, and some schools have a "no peanuts" policy. Here are some alternatives to peanut butter that you can use in a peanut butter, jelly, and cheese sandwich.

Cream Cheese

Cream cheese is a great option for those who are not allergic to dairy. It has a thick, spreadable texture and acts as a moisture barrier to keep the bread from getting soggy. It also comes in a variety of flavours, from fruit to chopped vegetables, so you can get creative with your sandwich combinations.

Guacamole

Guacamole is a hearty and healthy option that can stand on its own as a sandwich topping. It goes well in pitas and tortillas and pairs nicely with chicken. The rich green colour might also appeal to adventurous eaters.

Hummus

Hummus is a popular Middle Eastern appetizer that makes a great, healthy sandwich spread. It is high in protein and can be purchased at many supermarkets or made at home. However, people with peanut allergies may also be sensitive to sesame, so it is important to proceed with caution and consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns.

Vegetable Purees

Vegetable purees, such as red pepper puree, are colourful and tasty while still providing some health benefits. They make excellent sandwich spreads, but it is recommended to add a moisture barrier like cream cheese, butter, or oil to prevent the bread from getting soggy.

Soy and Sunflower Butters

For those looking for a nut-free alternative, soy and sunflower butters are great options. They are specifically created for individuals with peanut allergies and can be found in health food stores or the health aisle of grocery stores.

Tree Nut Butters

If your child is only allergic to peanuts and not tree nuts, alternative tree nut butters can provide a similar experience to peanut butter. Almond butter, cashew butter, and hazelnut butter are widely available options. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about the suitability of tree nut butters for your child's diet.

Frequently asked questions