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This fun take on a classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich turns a childhood favorite into a playful and portable snack. Perfect for lunchboxes or afterschool treats, these sushi rolls make sandwich time exciting and mess-free.
I first made these for my kids when they were heading back to school, and now they often ask for this creative twist to brighten their lunches.
Ingredients
- Jif Creamy Peanut Butter: Two tablespoons Jif Creamy Peanut Butter choose creamy for easy spreading and smooth texture
- Smucker’s Strawberry Jelly or any preferred Smucker’s Jam or Preserves: Two tablespoons Smucker’s Strawberry Jelly or any preferred Smucker’s Jam or Preserves pick a favorite flavor that your family loves for a personalized touch
- Bread: Two slices of bread white bread works best for rolling make sure it is fresh for easy flattening and rolling
Instructions
- Sculpt the bread:
- Remove the crusts from each slice of bread carefully using a sharp knife. Then, place the bread slices on a flat surface and firmly roll over them with a rolling pin or a large soup can until they are completely flattened. This step creates a flexible canvas for the fillings and makes rolling easier.
- Layer the fillings:
- Spread one tablespoon of creamy peanut butter evenly over each flattened slice of bread. Immediately follow with a tablespoon of strawberry jelly or your chosen jam spread gently on top of the peanut butter. Spreading while the bread is still flat ensures the flavors blend nicely.
- Roll it tight:
- Starting at one end, roll each slice into a tight spiral, striving to keep the filling securely inside. A firm roll prevents the filling from squeezing out and gives the sushi roll a neat appearance.
- Slice and serve:
- Using a sharp knife, cut each rolled slice into four equal pieces to create bite sized sushi style rolls. These are perfect for sharing or packing into lunchboxes in neat portions.
The peanut butter offers a creamy richness that balances the sweetness of the jelly. One of my fondest memories is making these with my kids on a rainy afternoon watching them enjoy their "sushi" never gets old.
Storage Tips
If you want to prepare these ahead of time, wrap the sushi rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to 24 hours, making them convenient for lunch prep. Avoid refrigerating as it can dry out the bread.
Ingredient Substitutions
Almond butter or sunflower seed butter work well if you need a peanut free option while keeping the creamy texture. You can swap out strawberry jelly for grape jelly or even a marmalade for a unique twist. Try whole wheat or gluten free bread to accommodate dietary needs but note the texture may change slightly.
Serving Suggestions
These sushi rolls are a great snack on their own but also pair well with fresh fruit or veggie sticks for a balanced lunch. Try serving them alongside a small cup of yogurt or a handful of nuts to round out the meal.
These peanut butter and jelly sushi rolls are quick, kid friendly, and perfect for brightening lunchboxes. Enjoy fresh the same day for best texture.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What type of bread works best for these sushi rolls?
Soft white or sandwich bread works best as it flattens easily and holds the filling well when rolled.
- → Can I use other nut butters besides peanut butter?
Yes, almond or cashew butter are great alternatives that pair nicely with fruit spreads.
- → How do I make the rolls hold together without falling apart?
Flattening the bread thinly and rolling tightly ensures the sushi spirals hold their shape well when sliced.
- → Are there other spreads that work well besides jelly?
Fruit preserves, jam, or even honey can be substitued to add different sweet flavors.
- → Can these sushi rolls be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, they keep well for several hours refrigerated, making them convenient for packed lunches.