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Bananas are the most popular food to pair with peanut butter after jelly, consistently highlighted across multiple reputable sources.
- Bananas lead in mention frequency across Reddit, Taste of Home, and Spoon University.
- Apples and celery are strong secondary choices.
- Some models suggested celery, honey, or apples, but they have fewer citations.
- Bananas are identified by the majority of models as the most popular PB pairing after jelly.
- Multiple sources repeatedly list bananas alongside peanut butter, confirming its top‑rank status.
- Apples and celery are consistently mentioned as strong secondary options.
- One model claimed celery as the top pairing, while another suggested honey, and a third argued apples are the most popular, showing divergence from the consensus.
Banana and peanut butter sandwich
Peanut Butter Pairings: What Comes After Jelly?
When the classic peanut butter‑and‑jelly sandwich runs out of steam, the next most‑loved companion is banana. Across a wide range of food‑focused publications and community discussions, bananas consistently top the list of alternatives.
Why Bananas Rank First
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Flavor harmony | The natural sweetness and creamy texture of ripe banana complement the salty, nutty taste of peanut butter without overwhelming it. |
| Ease of use | Sliced banana fits perfectly on toast, bread, or in a sandwich—no cooking required. |
| Nutritional boost | Adds potassium, fiber, and vitamins to the snack. |
| Cultural popularity | Iconic combos like the “Elvis sandwich” (peanut butter, banana, and sometimes bacon) reinforce its status. |
These points are echoed in several verified sources: the Reddit cooking thread lists “very ripe bananas” as a favorite 1, Taste of Home includes bananas among its “13 Foods That Are Better with a Scoop of Peanut Butter” 5, and Spoon University’s “Peanut Butter Pairings Beyond the Basics” highlights bananas first among fruit options 7.
Other Popular Pairings (Secondary)
While bananas dominate, other foods are frequently mentioned as excellent companions:
- Apples – crunchy, sweet‑tart contrast; highlighted in multiple lists 257.
- Celery – crisp veggie option, often paired with raisins for “ants on a log” 257.
- Honey – adds a smooth, floral sweetness; appears in a few sources 48.
- Chocolate/Nutella – for indulgent treats; noted in several articles 478.
Practical Ideas
- Classic PB‑Banana Sandwich – Spread peanut butter on whole‑grain bread, layer sliced banana, and enjoy.
- PB‑Banana Toast – Toast a slice of bread, spread peanut butter, top with banana slices, and drizzle honey if desired.
- Banana‑PB Smoothie – Blend banana, peanut butter, milk (or plant‑based alternative), and a dash of cinnamon.
- PB‑Banana Wrap – Spread peanut butter on a tortilla, add banana strips, roll, and slice.
These simple preparations make the banana‑peanut butter combo accessible for breakfast, snacks, or post‑workout fuel.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for the next go‑to ingredient after jelly, reach for a banana. Its widespread endorsement across community forums, food magazines, and culinary blogs makes it the clear front‑runner.