What is a good combination with peanut butter?

November 14, 2025 •

4 min read

Peanut butter is more than a simple sandwich spread; a 2018 study noted it's a versatile ingredient that can be integrated into various meals. The question of what is a good combination with peanut butter can be answered in a multitude of ways, spanning from beloved classics to surprising new flavors that will excite your palate.

Quick Summary

This guide provides an extensive list of excellent pairings for peanut butter, covering delicious options for breakfast, snacks, main courses, and desserts. Explore classic fruit dips, savory sauces, and creative sweet treats to enhance your peanut butter experience.

Key Points

Classic Sweet Pairings: Apples, bananas, and chocolate are classic, reliable combinations that balance sweet and nutty flavors for delicious snacks and desserts.
Savory Culinary Uses: Peanut butter serves as a base for many Asian-inspired dishes like Thai peanut sauces, curries, and stir-fries.
Creative Breakfasts: Mix peanut butter into oatmeal, yogurt, or smoothies to boost protein and healthy fats for a satisfying start to your day.
Unexpected Snacks: For an adventurous palate, try pairing peanut butter with savory items like avocado toast, bacon, or even raw vegetables like carrots and celery.
Healthier Choices: Opt for natural peanut butter with minimal ingredients (peanuts and salt) and control portion sizes to maximize its health benefits while managing calories.
On-the-Go Fuel: Combine peanut butter with oats and seeds to create no-bake energy balls, which are perfect for a quick, portable, and nutritious boost.

Classic Sweet Combinations

Few things are as universally loved as sweet peanut butter pairings. These tried-and-true duos are simple to prepare and satisfying for all ages.

Fruit and PB

Fruit's natural sweetness and texture offer a perfect counterpoint to creamy or crunchy peanut butter. The classic banana and peanut butter pairing provides fiber and protein for a quick energy boost. Similarly, crisp apple slices dipped in peanut butter make a refreshing and filling snack. For a twist, try adding peanut butter to a fruit dip with yogurt and a touch of honey.

Banana: Sliced on toast, in smoothies, or simply topped with a dollop of peanut butter for a quick snack.
Apple Slices: The crunch of an apple and the smooth texture of peanut butter is a favorite for a reason. For variety, experiment with different apple types, from sweet Galas to tart Granny Smiths.
Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries provide a tangy contrast that works well in smoothies, on toast, or as part of a parfait.

Chocolate and Peanut Butter

The irresistible combination of chocolate and peanut butter is a cornerstone of many dessert recipes. The rich, slightly bitter flavor of chocolate balances the sweet, nutty taste of peanut butter perfectly.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup: A homemade version with melted chocolate and a peanut butter filling is a classic treat.
No-Bake Desserts: Energy bites made with peanut butter, oats, and chocolate chips are a simple and delicious option.
Baked Goods: From peanut butter brownies to classic cookies with a chocolate kiss, this flavor profile is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Surprising Savory Pairings

While sweet combinations dominate, peanut butter's savory side is celebrated in many cuisines. It adds a nutty, creamy depth to a variety of dishes, from soups to stir-fries.

Asian-Inspired Dishes

Peanut butter is a key ingredient in many Asian-style sauces and marinades. A simple sauce of peanut butter, soy sauce, lime, ginger, and garlic can transform a meal.

Thai Peanut Noodles: A quick and satisfying meal featuring peanut sauce tossed with ramen noodles and vegetables.
Peanut Chicken or Tofu: Marinade chicken or crispy tofu in a savory peanut sauce for a rich main course.
Peanut Stir Fry Sauce: Use a homemade peanut butter sauce to add a flavorful, creamy element to your favorite stir-fried vegetables.

Unexpected Savory Snacks

For those feeling adventurous, pairing peanut butter with savory snacks can open up a world of new flavors.

Avocado Toast: The creamy texture of avocado and peanut butter surprisingly complement each other for a delicious and nutrient-dense breakfast or snack.
Carrots and Celery: As a high-fiber and protein-rich dip, peanut butter is an upgrade to traditional ranch dressing when paired with raw vegetables.
Grilled Cheese with Bacon: For a truly indulgent treat, add a spread of peanut butter to a classic bacon grilled cheese sandwich.

Comparison Table: Peanut Butter Pairings


Category	Classic Sweet Combinations	Savory Combinations
Flavor Profile	Sweet, nutty, sometimes tangy	Savory, spicy, umami-rich
Best For	Breakfast, dessert, sweet snacks	Dinner, savory snacks, lunch
Key Ingredients	Banana, apple, chocolate, honey	Soy sauce, ginger, garlic, veggies
Preparation Complexity	Simple to moderately easy	Can require more steps for sauces
Ideal Meal Time	Morning or after-dinner treat	Afternoon or evening meal

Creative Breakfast and Snack Ideas

Beyond basic toast, peanut butter can be the star of creative and healthy meals throughout the day.

Oatmeal: Stir a spoonful of peanut butter into your morning oatmeal for added protein and heart-healthy fat that keeps you full longer.
Smoothies: A blend of peanut butter, banana, and milk creates a creamy, protein-packed smoothie, perfect for an on-the-go meal or post-workout refuel.
Yogurt Dip: Mix peanut butter with Greek yogurt for a high-protein dip that can be served with fruit or pretzels.
Energy Balls: Combine peanut butter with oats, chia seeds, and dried fruit for easy, no-bake energy bites.

Conclusion

Peanut butter's versatility is one of its greatest strengths. While its role in a classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich is iconic, its potential extends far beyond. The key to finding a good combination with peanut butter lies in embracing both its sweet and savory characteristics. Whether you're topping fresh fruit for a simple snack, whipping up a gourmet Thai-inspired dish for dinner, or creating a decadent dessert, peanut butter proves to be an indispensable ingredient. Experiment with these suggestions and discover your new favorite way to enjoy this pantry staple.

Why Quality Matters

Choosing a high-quality, minimally processed peanut butter can make a significant difference in both flavor and health benefits. Look for options with a short ingredient list, ideally just peanuts and a little salt, to avoid added sugars and unhealthy hydrogenated oils that are often found in processed versions. For those watching calories, powdered peanut butter offers a high-protein, lower-fat alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions

The most classic and beloved combination is undoubtedly peanut butter and jelly, typically served on bread as a sandwich.

For healthy options, pair peanut butter with fruits like apple or banana slices, celery sticks, oatmeal, or blend it into a protein smoothie.

Yes, peanut butter is a staple in many savory dishes, particularly in West African and Southeast Asian cuisines, where it's used to make sauces for stews and stir-fries.

Beyond jelly, you can add sliced bananas, honey, or marshmallow fluff. For a unique savory twist, try adding bacon, avocado, or even thinly sliced sweet onions.

In moderation, peanut butter can aid weight loss. Its protein and healthy fat content promote feelings of fullness and satisfaction, which can help reduce overall calorie intake.

Natural peanut butter, which contains only peanuts and a small amount of salt, is the healthiest option. These varieties avoid added sugars, hydrogenated oils, and unnecessary additives.

Yes, peanut butter is a great addition to both vegetarian and vegan diets, serving as a versatile source of plant-based protein and healthy fats.