What Goes Well With Peanut Butter on a Sandwich?

November 29, 2025 •

3 min read

The first recipe for a peanut butter sandwich appeared in The Boston Cooking School magazine in 1901, suggesting a pairing with currant jelly. But the world of peanut butter sandwich possibilities is vast, extending far beyond this classic combination. For a truly unforgettable experience, understanding what goes well with peanut butter on a sandwich is essential.

Quick Summary

This guide explores a variety of sweet, savory, and healthy options to pair with peanut butter on a sandwich. Learn how to combine different ingredients to create delicious new flavors and textures for any meal or snack.

Key Points

Creative Pairings: Beyond jelly, fruits like banana and apple, or even savory items like bacon and pickles, pair well with peanut butter.
Texture Contrast: Crunchy additions like granola or potato chips can add an exciting new dimension to a creamy peanut butter sandwich.
Sweet Variations: Classic sweet pairings include honey, marshmallow creme, and a variety of jams and fresh berries.
Savory Combinations: Explore unique savory tastes by adding crisp bacon, tangy pickles, or spicy elements like jalapeño jelly.
Healthy Options: For a nutritional boost, incorporate whole-grain bread, natural peanut butter, and toppings like chia seeds or sprouts.
Hot or Cold: Enjoy peanut butter sandwiches hot by grilling them for a melted treat, or serve them cold for a classic, quick meal.

Sweet Pairings That Are Pure Bliss

For those with a sweet tooth, peanut butter is the perfect foundation. The creamy, nutty flavor provides a rich base for a variety of delightful additions.

The Classic and Beyond: Fruits and Preserves

Banana: The Elvis Presley-approved combination of peanut butter and sliced banana is a timeless classic. For an extra treat, try a grilled version with a pat of butter.
Strawberries and Other Berries: Swap grape jelly for sliced fresh strawberries or a homemade mixed berry jam for a fresher, less sugary alternative.
Apple Slices: The crisp, tart flavor of apple slices (like Granny Smith) provides a perfect textural and flavor contrast to smooth, creamy peanut butter.
Marshmallow Creme: For a fluffy, sugary, and nostalgic treat, a fluffernutter sandwich is hard to beat.
Honey or Maple Syrup: Drizzle a touch of honey or maple syrup over the peanut butter for a simple, natural sweetness that complements the nutty flavor.
Chocolate Chips: For a dessert-like experience, sprinkle semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips onto the peanut butter before toasting or grilling the sandwich.

The Crunchy and Decadent

For those who love a little extra crunch, these additions take your sandwich to the next level.

Granola: Add a sprinkle of your favorite granola for a textural crunch that works perfectly with peanut butter and fruit.
Potato Chips: The combination of salty, crunchy potato chips and creamy peanut butter is a surprising fan favorite for an over-the-top, savory-sweet experience.
Cinnamon Swirl Bread: Using this sweet bread instead of plain white bread adds a warm, spiced flavor that enhances the peanut butter.

Savory Surprises: Unexpected and Delicious

Peanut butter isn't just for sweet sandwiches. Its rich, earthy flavor profile makes it a fantastic partner for many savory ingredients. Some of these combinations might seem unusual, but the results are delicious.

Unconventional but Awesome

Bacon: The smoky, salty flavor of crisp bacon is a fantastic match for creamy, rich peanut butter. Elvis wasn't wrong with this combination. Add slices of bacon to your sandwich for a salty, savory kick.
Pickles: A divisive but popular choice, a peanut butter and pickle sandwich offers a unique blend of salty, creamy, and sour flavors. For a milder flavor, opt for sweet pickles instead of dill.
Mayo and Lettuce: A nostalgic, retro combination, adding mayonnaise and crisp lettuce can create an unexpectedly balanced and satisfying sandwich.
Jalapeño Jelly: For a sweet and spicy kick, spread a layer of jalapeño jelly over the peanut butter. The heat and sweetness create a complex flavor profile.
Sriracha: A drizzle of sriracha can add a powerful, spicy dimension to a peanut butter sandwich, making for a truly unique flavor experience.

Savory Sandwich Comparison


Feature	PB & Bacon	PB & Pickle	PB & Mayo	PB & Jalapeño Jelly
Primary Flavor	Salty, Smoky	Tangy, Sweet, Creamy	Creamy, Savory	Sweet, Spicy
Texture Contrast	Crunchy bacon	Crisp pickle	Soft lettuce	Smooth jelly, subtle heat
Best Served	Hot or Grilled	Cold	Cold	Grilled or Hot
Adventure Level	High	Extreme	Medium	High
Best Paired With	White or whole-wheat bread	Crunchy PB, white bread	Creamy PB, white bread	Creamy PB, rustic bread

Healthy and Nutritious Variations

For a guilt-free sandwich that's packed with flavor, focus on nutrient-dense ingredients. Use whole-grain bread and natural peanut butter with minimal additives.

Nutritious and Filling Additions

Chia Seeds: Sprinkle chia seeds over your peanut butter and jam sandwich for added omega-3 fatty acids and a pleasant texture.
Sprouts: Adding a handful of alfalfa sprouts can bring a fresh, earthy flavor and extra nutrients to your sandwich.
Dried Fruit: Mix chopped dried cranberries or raisins into your peanut butter for a sweet and chewy addition.
Goat Cheese: A sprinkle of soft goat cheese adds a tangy, creamy element that contrasts nicely with the richness of peanut butter.

Conclusion

The possibilities for the humble peanut butter sandwich are endless. While the classic PB&J holds a special place in our hearts, exploring new and unusual pairings can elevate a simple snack into a culinary adventure. From the familiar and comforting sweetness of bananas and honey to the bold, savory challenge of bacon or pickles, there's a perfect peanut butter companion for every palate. The next time you reach for the jar, consider stepping outside your comfort zone to discover your new favorite combination. For more culinary ideas, check out this guide on Creative and Adventurous Peanut Butter Sandwiches.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, for the adventurous palate! The combination of sweet, creamy peanut butter and tangy, salty pickles creates a surprisingly balanced flavor profile. It's a love-it-or-hate-it combination that many people swear by.

A healthy option involves using 100% whole-grain bread, natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils, and toppings like sliced banana, apple, or chia seeds for added fiber and nutrients.

Absolutely. The combination of salty, crispy bacon and rich, creamy peanut butter is a popular and delicious choice for those who enjoy sweet and savory mixes. For a hot version, try grilling it.

Common fruits that pair wonderfully with peanut butter include bananas, apples, and strawberries. The natural sweetness and varied textures work perfectly with the rich peanut flavor.

Besides traditional jelly, you can use honey, maple syrup, marshmallow creme, or other sweet spreads. For savory options, consider adding bacon, pickles, or different sauces.

Yes, peanut butter is a versatile ingredient that can add a nutty flavor to savory meals. It's commonly used in dressings for salads, stir-fry sauces, and with grilled vegetables.

Yes, in moderation, a peanut butter sandwich can be a healthy daily option. Just be mindful of portion sizes and choose natural peanut butter and whole-grain bread to maximize the nutritional benefits.