Name: Fried PB&J Donut Bites: A Sweet Treat You'll Love!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup milk; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/4 cup jelly (your choice of flavor); Vegetable oil for frying

Introduction to Fried PB&J Donut Bites

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something sweet for the family. That’s why I absolutely adore these Fried PB&J Donut Bites! They’re not just a delightful treat; they’re a nostalgic nod to childhood favorites that everyone loves. Imagine the crispy exterior giving way to a warm, gooey center filled with peanut butter and jelly. It’s the perfect solution for a quick dessert or a fun snack that will impress your loved ones. Trust me, these little bites of joy will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Fried PB&J Donut Bites

These Fried PB&J Donut Bites are a game-changer for busy days! They come together in just 25 minutes, making them a quick and easy dessert option. The combination of crispy donuts and creamy peanut butter with sweet jelly is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re perfect for satisfying those late-night cravings or surprising your kids after school. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a family favorite!

Ingredients for Fried PB&J Donut Bites

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Fried PB&J Donut Bites. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This is the base of your donut bites, giving them structure and a soft texture.
Sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the flavors and enhance the overall taste.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the donut bites rise, making them light and fluffy.
Salt: Just a pinch to enhance the sweetness and bring out the flavors.
Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the batter, making it smooth and creamy.
Egg: Acts as a binder, helping to hold everything together while adding a bit of richness.
Creamy peanut butter: The star of the show! It provides that classic peanut butter flavor and a creamy texture.
Jelly: Choose your favorite flavor to fill the donut bites. Strawberry, grape, or raspberry are all delicious options!
Vegetable oil: Essential for frying, it gives the donut bites that crispy, golden exterior.

For those looking to mix things up, consider using whole wheat flour for a healthier twist or swapping out the jelly for a fruit preserve. You can find the exact measurements for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Fried PB&J Donut Bites

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these Fried PB&J Donut Bites! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of delicious treats in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. Combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Give it a good whisk to ensure everything is evenly mixed. This step is crucial for the perfect texture!

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and creamy peanut butter until smooth. This mixture should be velvety and well-blended. The peanut butter adds that rich flavor we all love!

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. This will keep your donut bites light and fluffy!

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a deep fryer or large pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to check the temperature. This is key for achieving that crispy exterior. If the oil isn’t hot enough, your donut bites will absorb too much oil and become greasy.

Step 5: Fry the Donut Bites

Using a small cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Fry them until they turn golden brown on all sides. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they can go from golden to burnt in a flash!

Step 6: Drain and Cool

Once they’re golden, carefully remove the donut bites from the oil. Place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Let them cool slightly; you don’t want to burn your fingers when filling them!

Step 7: Fill with Jelly

After they’ve cooled a bit, grab a piping bag and fill each donut bite with your choice of jelly. You can use a small tip to make it easier. This is where the magic happens—each bite will burst with flavor!

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Finally, serve your Fried PB&J Donut Bites warm. They’re best enjoyed fresh, so gather your family and dig in! Watch their faces light up with joy as they take that first bite.

Tips for Success

Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect crispy texture.
Don’t overcrowd the pot; fry in batches to ensure even cooking.
Use a thermometer to monitor oil temperature for consistent results.
Experiment with different jelly flavors for a fun twist on the classic.
Serve immediately for the best taste and texture!

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls: Use any size you have on hand; just make sure they’re large enough for mixing.
Whisk: A fork works too if you don’t have a whisk handy!
Deep fryer or large pot: A heavy-bottomed pot is a great alternative for frying.
Thermometer: If you don’t have one, just test the oil with a small drop of batter.
Piping bag: A zip-top bag with a corner snipped off can work in a pinch!

Variations of Fried PB&J Donut Bites

Nut Butter Swap: Try almond or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor.
Jelly Alternatives: Use fruit preserves, Nutella, or even chocolate spread for a decadent twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly treat.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, cozy flavor.
Mini Donut Bites: Use a mini muffin tin instead of frying for a healthier baked version!

Serving Suggestions for Fried PB&J Donut Bites

Pair with Milk: A classic glass of cold milk complements the sweetness perfectly.
Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside sliced strawberries or bananas for a refreshing contrast.
Presentation: Dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
Ice Cream: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the bites for an extra treat!

FAQs about Fried PB&J Donut Bites

Can I make Fried PB&J Donut Bites ahead of time?

While these donut bites are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the batter in advance and fry them just before serving. This way, you’ll have that warm, crispy goodness ready to go!

What type of jelly works best for filling?

You can use any flavor of jelly you love! Strawberry, grape, or raspberry are classic choices. Feel free to experiment with your favorites for a unique twist!

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Absolutely! If you prefer a healthier option, you can use a mini muffin tin to bake them. Just adjust the baking time to ensure they’re cooked through.

How do I store leftover Fried PB&J Donut Bites?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day. They’re best when fresh, but you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to regain some crispiness.

Are Fried PB&J Donut Bites suitable for kids?

Definitely! These delightful treats are a hit with kids and adults alike. Just be sure to supervise younger children while they enjoy these sweet bites!

Final Thoughts

Making Fried PB&J Donut Bites is more than just a cooking adventure; it’s a delightful experience that brings joy to the whole family. The crispy exterior and warm, gooey filling create a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds. I love watching my kids’ faces light up with excitement as they take that first bite. These little treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family night or a fun gathering with friends. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and create some sweet memories with these irresistible bites!