
Homemade uncrustables are a super convenient and freezable option for busy families needing easy school lunches or snacks. Making these crustless peanut butter and jelly sandwiches at home gives you control over ingredients while saving money compared to storebought versions. They are great for packing in lunchboxes, car trips, picnics, and anywhere you need a nofuss messfree sandwich.
I first started making these on hectic school mornings when I barely had time to think. Now they are a staple that my kids eagerly grab, making busy mornings less stressful for everyone.
Ingredients
- Sandwich bread: choose soft white or sandwich style wheat bread avoid dense whole wheat or sourdough because they do not seal as well
- Peanut butter: spreads on both slices to protect the bread from jelly moisture and prevent sogginess
- Jam or jelly: any flavor you like thin layers work best to avoid overfilling and mess
- Plastic wrap or sandwich bags: for wrapping individual sandwiches before freezing plastic wrap is more cost effective
- Optional: biscuit or cookie cutter or sandwich sealer for cutting and sealing edges
- Notes: Squeeze fresh peanut butter if possible for best taste and creaminess. Use your favorite jam for variety and fun flavor combos.
Instructions
- Spoon peanut butter:
- Spread a generous and even layer of peanut butter on one side of each bread slice. Make sure to reach the edges for a good seal and moisture barrier
- Add jelly:
- Spread a thin layer of jelly or jam on one or both slices over the peanut butter. A thin spread keeps the sandwich from becoming too wet or messy while still delivering flavor
- Assemble sandwich:
- Place the two slices together with peanut butter facing jelly to create your sandwich. Press gently so they stick but do not squash the bread
- Cut and seal:
- Use a sandwich sealer or biscuit cutter to cut off the crusts and seal the edges. If you do not have a sealer press the edges firmly with your fingers or a fork to crimp and seal. This keeps fillings inside and creates the familiar uncrustable shape
- Wrap individually:
- Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or place in small sandwich bags. This prevents freezer burn and keeps sandwiches separate
- Freeze flat:
- Lay the wrapped sandwiches flat in your freezer until fully frozen usually several hours or overnight. Once solid you can stack or rearrange them for storage
- Pack and enjoy:
- Take frozen sandwiches out of the freezer and pack directly into lunchboxes with no need for thawing. They thaw naturally by lunchtime and help keep the lunch cold longer

My favorite part is how the sealed edges lock in freshness and messfree fun. Watching my youngest carefully unwrap each sandwich now and then reminds me how this small prep step turns hectic mornings into calm moments. It’s made school lunches an easier win for our whole family.
Storage Tips
Wrap each sandwich individually to avoid freezer burn and clumping. Store wrapped sandwiches in a large freezer safe bag or container for organization. For best texture avoid stacking before sandwiches are completely frozen.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try almond butter or sunflower butter for nut free options. Use honey or preserves in place of jam if you prefer. Experiment with different bread types but avoid very dense or crusty loaves for sealing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve frozen or thawed with fresh fruit or veggie sticks. Pack with a small ice pack to keep the lunchbox cool longer. Pair with a favorite drink for a balanced meal on the go.

Homemade uncrustables save time reduce waste and allow complete control over what your kids eat. Prep ahead and freeze a batch for an easy grabandgo lunch option.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What bread types work best for uncrustables?
Sandwich breads like white, wheat, or Texas Toast work well. Avoid dense whole wheat or sourdough as they don’t seal properly.
- → How can I prevent the sandwiches from becoming soggy?
Spread peanut butter on both slices of bread to act as a moisture barrier, stopping jam from soaking into the bread.
- → Can I use different fillings besides peanut butter and jelly?
Yes! Nutella, almond butter, sunflower butter, or various jams and preserves all work great for customization.
- → What tools can I use to cut and seal the sandwiches?
You can use a sandwich sealer, biscuit or cookie cutter, or even an inverted cup. Press edges firmly to seal and remove crusts.
- → How should I store the uncrustables in the freezer?
Wrap each sandwich individually in plastic wrap or bags, then store them flat in a larger freezer bag or container to avoid squishing.
- → Do these sandwiches need thawing before eating?
No thawing required. They can be placed directly into lunchboxes and usually thaw by lunchtime.