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This fun and simple recipe turns classic peanut butter and jelly sandwiches into bitesized sushi rolls your kids will love, making lunchtime feel special and creative. It only takes a few minutes and uses ingredients that are likely already in your pantry.
I first made these during a backtoschool week when my kids were tired of the usual sandwich routine. Now they actually ask for these sushi rolls instead of regular PB&J.
Ingredients
- Peanut butter: Two tablespoons creamy peanut butter ensure a smooth texture that spreads evenly across the bread
- Strawberry jelly: Two tablespoons of Smucker’s strawberry jelly or any preferred fruit preserve add sweetness and moisture choosing a high-quality jam will really enhance the flavor
- Bread: Two slices of bread with the crusts removed make rolling easier and give a clean sushilike appearance fresh white or whole wheat bread works best because it flattens nicely
Instructions
- Remove crusts:
- Remove crusts from the bread carefully. This allows for a neater roll that mimics sushi and prevents cracking when rolling.
- Flatten the bread:
- Using a rolling pin or a large empty soup can, press firmly to flatten each slice completely. This softens the bread making it easier to spread toppings and roll tightly.
- Spread with care:
- Spread one tablespoon of peanut butter evenly over the surface of each flattened bread slice. Then spread one tablespoon of jelly or jam on top. Make sure to leave a tiny margin at the edges to avoid overflow when rolling.
- Roll it up:
- Starting from one edge, roll each slice tightly into a spiral shape. Press gently as you roll to keep the filling inside securely.
- Slice like sushi:
- Cut each rolled bread tightly into four equal pieces. These bitesized pieces look like sushi and are easy to eat for kids or adults alike.
My favorite ingredient is definitely the strawberry jelly because it adds a fresh fruity pop that pairs perfectly with peanut butter. These sushi rolls remind me of summer picnics as well as hectic school mornings when a little fun food brightens the day.
Storage Tips
Store leftover sushi rolls tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container to keep the bread from drying out. They taste best the same day but can keep in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Avoid freezing as the texture changes.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a different nutty flavor or if allergies are a concern. Use any type of jam or preserves your family prefers such as grape, raspberry, or apricot. For a gluten free option use sandwich bread that fits your dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve sushi rolls with fresh fruit slices and a glass of milk for a balanced lunch. Offer mini skewers or fun plates to make the meal more interactive and appealing to kids. Pair with veggie sticks or yogurt for a nutritious snack combo.
Quick to make and endlessly adaptable these PB&J sushi rolls are a playful way to brighten school lunches. Kids love helping make them which makes lunchtime more fun.
Your Recipe Questions Answered
- → What type of bread works best for these rolls?
Soft white or sandwich bread without crusts works best as it flattens easily and rolls without cracking.
- → Can I use different spreads besides peanut butter and jelly?
Yes, you can substitute peanut butter with almond or sunflower butter and use any fruit preserves for variety.
- → How do I prevent the bread from tearing when rolling?
Flatten the bread evenly with a rolling pin and avoid overfilling spreads to keep the bread intact while rolling.
- → Are these rolls suitable for packed lunches?
Absolutely, these bite-sized rolls are convenient, mess-free, and great for lunchboxes or snacks on the go.
- → Can the rolls be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, they can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness for a few hours.