Grilled Peanut Butter Banana

This childhood classic has been transformed into a warm, melty treat that satisfies both sweet cravings and hunger pangs. The golden, crispy exterior gives way to creamy peanut butter and sweet banana for a comforting sandwich that works any time of day.

I started making this sandwich for my niece during weekend sleepovers, and it quickly became our special morning ritual. Now whenever she visits, she heads straight to the kitchen and starts pulling out the ingredients before I even offer breakfast.

• Thick white bread: The foundation of your sandwich. Choose a quality bakery loaf that can stand up to grilling without becoming soggy.
• Mayonnaise: Creates the perfect golden crust. Trust me on this even if it sounds unusual.
• Smooth peanut butter: Provides protein and creamy texture. Natural varieties work well but may be less sweet.
• Banana: Adds natural sweetness and soft texture. Choose ripe but still firm bananas for best results.

How To Make Grilled Peanut Butter Banana Sandwich

Prepare the exterior:

Spread a thin, even layer of mayonnaise on one outer side of each bread slice. The mayo works magic here it creates a perfectly crispy golden crust without the burnt spots butter can sometimes leave.

Assemble the filling:

Apply a generous layer of peanut butter to the inner sides of each bread slice. Make sure to spread it all the way to the edges to seal in the banana slices. The peanut butter acts as both flavor and glue.

Add the banana:

Arrange thin banana slices evenly across the peanut butter surface. Slicing them about 1/4 inch thick ensures they'll warm through without making the sandwich too bulky.

Begin grilling:

Place two bread slices mayo side down on a preheated griddle or pan, with the peanut butter and banana facing up. Then top with the remaining bread slices, peanut butter side down and mayo side up. This creates your sandwich package.

Achieve golden perfection:

Cook over medium heat for about 2 minutes until the bottom is golden brown. Carefully flip using a wide spatula and press gently. Cook another 2 minutes until both sides are beautifully browned and the filling is warm and melty.

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The secret ingredient here is actually the mayonnaise on the outside. I discovered this trick from a diner chef who swore it creates a more evenly golden crust than butter does. After trying it once, I never went back to butter for my grilled sandwiches.

Sweet Variations

This sandwich welcomes creative additions to elevate the flavor profile. Try adding a light sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey before grilling for warm spiced sweetness. For chocolate lovers, adding a few chocolate chips or a thin layer of Nutella transforms this into a dessert sandwich. My personal favorite variation includes thinly sliced strawberries alongside the banana for a fruit medley experience.

Texture Enhancements

The contrast between crispy exterior and creamy interior makes this sandwich special. For extra crunch, consider adding a sprinkle of granola or chopped nuts to the peanut butter layer. If you prefer even more textural contrast, try using crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth. For the ultimate indulgence, French toast the bread slices before assembling your sandwich the egg coating adds richness and creates an even more decadent crust.

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Serving Suggestions

This sandwich stands perfectly well on its own, but pairing options can create a complete meal. Serve alongside fresh fruit for a bright contrast to the rich sandwich. A small glass of cold milk complements the peanut butter perfectly and helps cut through the richness. For brunch gatherings, quarter the sandwiches and serve on a platter with various dipping options like maple syrup, honey, or chocolate sauce. The sandwich also pairs surprisingly well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Nutritional Benefits

Beyond just tasting delicious, this sandwich offers substantial nutritional value. Bananas provide potassium and vitamin B6, while peanut butter adds protein and healthy fats. The bread delivers necessary carbohydrates for energy. This combination makes for a satisfying meal that provides sustained energy rather than a quick sugar rush. For added nutrition, consider using whole grain bread which adds fiber and additional nutrients to the mix.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I make the sandwich crispy?

Using a thin layer of mayonnaise on the outer sides of the bread helps achieve a perfectly crispy and golden texture when grilled.

→ Can I use other types of bread?

Yes, you can use other types of bread such as whole wheat, sourdough, or gluten-free varieties, but thicker slices work best.

→ Can I substitute the peanut butter?

Absolutely! You can use almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or any nut or seed butter of your choice.

→ What other toppings can I add?

Feel free to add a drizzle of honey, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a handful of chocolate chips for extra sweetness.

→ Can I make this sandwich vegan?

Yes! Simply use vegan mayonnaise and a vegan bread option to make this sandwich plant-based.

→ What’s the best way to slice the banana?

Thin, even slices work best for layering evenly across the bread and ensuring every bite has banana flavor.