Fried Peanut Butter Jelly Bombs

Fried Peanut Butter and Jelly Bombs are a decadent twist on a classic sandwich, featuring gooey peanut butter and jelly encased in a crispy, golden-brown exterior. The warm, gooey center of peanut butter and jelly enveloped in the dough makes for an irresistible treat that's both nostalgic and novel. They are our kid's favorite snack!

These bites are ideal for serving at gatherings or as a special snack and can be dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with chocolate for an extra decadent touch. The convenience of using Pillsbury French bread dough transforms the classic PB&J into a gourmet experience that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults alike.

At Avdaye, we add lots of tips in all of our recipes – because we are a home cook without any formal training, and we find we are more confident making dishes when we understand why it works, and what each ingredient means to the flavor of a recipe. Our goal is for even the most beginner home cook to feel empowered in the kitchen.

How to Make good PB&J Fried Bombs

Fried peanut butter and jelly bites made with Pillsbury French bread offer a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining the comfort of PB&J with a flaky, buttery crust. The pre-made dough simplifies the process, allowing for easy shaping and filling with your favorite peanut butter and jelly combination. When fried, the exterior of the Pillsbury French bread dough becomes golden and crisp, while the inside remains soft, creating a solid textural contrast.

Fried PB&J Bite Ingredients

First assemble the following ingredients:

• Pillsbury French Bread (1) – Pillsbury French Bread provides a convenient and flaky dough base, ensuring a golden, crispy exterior for the fried peanut butter and jelly bombs.
• Peanut butter (1/2 cup) – Creamy peanut butter melts into a rich, savory filling that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the jelly and the crispiness of the fried dough.
• Jelly (1/2 cup) – A dollop of jelly adds a burst of fruitiness and complements the creamy peanut butter with its sweet and slightly tart flavor profile.
• Powdered sugar (to garnish) – A dusting of powdered sugar on the finished bombs adds a touch of elegance and an extra layer of sweetness, enhancing the overall taste experience.

Steps to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Fried Bites

Use this Method

Heat Frier. Heat 3-4 cups corn, canola, vegetable, or other high-heat oil to 350 degrees in a tall pot (we like to use our spaghetti pot).

Assemble. Unroll french bread dough and separate into 20 small pieces (using a pizza slicer is the easiest way to do this quickly, but you can tear off bits as well). Spread a little peanut butter and jelly in the middle of each piece. Roll pieces into a ball shape, keeping peanut butter and jelly in the middle.

Fry. Add in groups of 4-5 to the oil and heat until crispy golden brown, about 5 minutes (if it takes longer, your oil is not hot enough- if it goes faster, your oil is too hot.)

Drain and Serve. Remove and place on paper towel to shake off excess oil. Sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired. Enjoy!

Kitchen notes

Use thick bread slices to ensure the bombs hold their shape and contain the filling well during frying.

Seal the edges of the bread tightly by crimping with a fork or fingers to prevent the filling from leaking out.

Choose a creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture and easier spreading on the bread.

Opt for a high-quality fruit-forward jelly or jam to balance the richness of the peanut butter.

Chill the assembled bombs in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes before frying to help them maintain their shape.

Use a deep fryer or a deep skillet with a sufficient amount of oil to ensure even cooking and a golden-brown exterior.

Keep the oil temperature around 350-375°F (175-190°C) for optimal frying without burning the exterior.

Fry the bombs in small batches to avoid overcrowding and to maintain a consistent oil temperature.

Drain the fried bombs on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil and keep them crispy.

Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with honey or chocolate sauce for an extra touch of sweetness before serving.

What to Enjoy with these Peanut Butter and Jelly Donut Holes

Try this recipe with our avocado ice cream!

To see the rest of our easy dessert recipe archives, click here.

Share Pin It Follow

Fried PB&J Balls FAQs

How long do peanut butter jelly bombs last?

Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to crisp them up again before serving.

Is there a dipping sauce that pairs well with these bites?

For an extra indulgent treat, consider serving these bites with a side of melted chocolate, caramel sauce, or a dusting of powdered sugar mixed with cinnamon for dipping or drizzling.

Can these bites be made in advance?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the bites up to the frying stage and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours. Fry them before serving to ensure they are crispy and warm.

How long should we fry the bites?

Fry the bites until they are golden brown on all sides, which typically takes about 2-3 minutes. turn them occasionally for even cooking.

How do we know when the oil is at the right temperature?

Use a kitchen thermometer to check that the oil has reached 350-375°F (175-190°C). If you don't have a thermometer, you can test the oil by dropping a small piece of dough into it; if it sizzles and starts to fry gently, the oil is ready.

What's the best oil for frying these bites?

Neutral oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, are best for frying to achieve a golden-brown exterior without imparting any unwanted flavors.

How do we prevent the peanut butter and jelly from leaking out during frying?

Ensure the edges of the dough are sealed tightly after adding the filling. You can press the edges together firmly and crimp them with a fork for extra security.

Can we use any type of jelly or jam?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite jelly, jam, or even preserves. Consider experimenting with different flavors to find your favorite combination.

What type of peanut butter works best for these bites?

Creamy peanut butter is recommended for its smooth texture, which makes it easier to spread on the dough without tearing it. However, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer a bit of texture.

Ingredients

• 1 French Bread, package Pillsbury
• ½ cup peanut butter
• ½ cup jelly
• optional- powdered sugar, to garnish

Method

1. Heat 3-4 cups corn, canola, vegetable, or other high-heat oil to 350 degrees in a tall pot (we like to use our spaghetti pot).
2. Unroll french bread dough and separate into 20 small pieces (using a pizza slicer is the easiest way to do this quickly, but you can tear off bits as well).
3. Spread a little peanut butter and jelly in the middle of each piece.
4. Roll pieces into a ball shape, keeping peanut butter and jelly in the middle.
5. Add in groups of 4-5 to the oil and heat until crispy golden brown, about 5 minutes (if it takes longer, your oil is not hot enough- if it goes faster, your oil is too hot.)
6. Remove and place on paper towel to shake off excess oil.
7. Sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired.
8. Enjoy!