Table of Contents
Introduction: What Mixes Well with Peanut Butter?
As a chef, I often get asked: What mixes well with peanut butter? Peanut butter is an incredibly versatile ingredient that pairs beautifully with both sweet and savory flavors. Whether you spread it on toast, blend it into smoothies, or use it as a dip, there are countless ways to enjoy peanut butter beyond the classic PB&J.
Growing up, my grandmother Julia always made the most delicious peanut butter combinations. From the classic peanut butter and jelly to more adventurous pairings like peanut butter and sriracha, there’s no shortage of creative ways to mix peanut butter into meals.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through 15 of the best peanut butter pairings, helping you find new and exciting flavors to enjoy with this protein-packed spread.
1. Classic Combo: What Mixes Well with Peanut Butter? Try Jelly!
The peanut butter and jelly sandwich is an American classic. The sweet and tangy jam balances the rich, creamy peanut butter, making it an irresistible treat for all ages.
✔ Best pairings: Grape jelly, strawberry jam, raspberry preserves
✔ Health tip: Opt for low-sugar or homemade fruit preserves for a healthier alternative.
🔗 Looking for a protein-packed breakfast idea? Try our Best Protein Powder Recipes.
2. Peanut Butter and Bananas: A Creamy, Nutritious Snack
If you’re wondering what mixes well with peanut butter, bananas are a perfect match! Their natural sweetness complements the nutty richness of peanut butter, making it a popular snack for athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
✔ Best ways to enjoy:
- Spread peanut butter on whole-grain toast and add banana slices.
- Blend it into a smoothie for a post-workout energy boost.
- Dip frozen banana chunks in peanut butter for a quick, healthy treat.
3. Crunchy Peanut Butter and Apples: A Perfect Pair
One of the best peanut butter pairings is crisp apple slices. The juicy, tart bite of apples contrasts beautifully with the smooth, creamy texture of peanut butter.
✔ Best apple varieties: Honeycrisp, Fuji, Granny Smith
✔ Fun tip: Sprinkle cinnamon on top for an extra burst of flavor.
🔗 Check out What to Eat with Peanut Butter: 6 Unconventional Food Pairings for more unique ideas!
4. What Mixes Well with Peanut Butter? Try Bacon for a Savory Twist!
Yes, you read that right! Peanut butter and bacon might sound unusual, but it’s a sweet-and-salty combination that brings out the best flavors in both ingredients.
✔ Best way to enjoy:
- Spread peanut butter on toast and top with crispy bacon.
- Make a peanut butter, bacon, and honey sandwich for a gourmet snack.
💡 Want more bold flavor combinations? Learn about the Peanut Butter and Pickle Sandwich.
5. Chocolate: The Ultimate Peanut Butter Pairing
It’s no surprise that peanut butter and chocolate are a match made in dessert heaven. Whether it’s peanut butter cups, chocolate-drizzled peanut butter cookies, or smoothies, this pairing is a winner!
✔ Best chocolate types: Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, cacao nibs
✔ Healthy option: Mix unsweetened cocoa powder into peanut butter for a low-sugar treat.
🔗 Craving chocolate? Try our 10 Best Pairings for Chocolate Waffles.
6. Peanut Butter and Pineapple: A Tropical Twist
For a refreshing and tangy combination, try peanut butter with pineapple. The tropical sweetness of pineapple adds a citrusy brightness that complements the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter.
✔ Best ways to enjoy:
- Spread peanut butter on fresh pineapple rings.
- Blend into a peanut butter-pineapple smoothie for a tropical drink.
- Use as a dip for grilled pineapple slices.
💡 Love tropical flavors? Try pairing peanut butter with other exotic fruits like mango or coconut!
7. Peanut Butter and Sriracha: A Spicy Surprise
If you enjoy a bit of heat, mixing peanut butter and sriracha creates a spicy and creamy blend perfect for sandwiches, sauces, and stir-fries.
✔ Best ways to use:
- Mix into a Thai peanut sauce for noodles or rice bowls.
- Spread on toast with avocado and sesame seeds.
- Use as a dip for grilled chicken or shrimp.
🔗 Looking for more unique flavor combinations? Check out Unconventional Peanut Butter Pairings.
8. Peanut Butter and Pickles: A Crunchy Contrast
One of the most unconventional but surprisingly tasty pairings is peanut butter and pickles. The salty, tangy crunch of pickles complements the creamy, nutty texture of peanut butter.
✔ Best pickles to use: Dill pickles, bread & butter pickles
✔ Best way to enjoy: Peanut butter and pickle sandwich on toasted bread
💡 Want to know more about this unusual combo? Read about the history of the Peanut Butter and Pickle Sandwich.
9. Peanut Butter and Celery: A Classic Healthy Snack
Celery’s crisp, fresh texture pairs perfectly with the smooth, nutty richness of peanut butter. It’s a low-carb, fiber-packed snack that’s great for kids and adults alike.
✔ Best way to enjoy:
- Fill celery sticks with peanut butter and top with raisins (“Ants on a Log”).
- Add chopped nuts or seeds for extra crunch.
- Dip into spicy peanut butter yogurt dip.
🔗 More healthy snack ideas? Try our Best Protein Powder Recipes.
10. Peanut Butter and Yogurt: A Protein-Packed Duo
Mixing peanut butter into Greek yogurt creates a rich, creamy, and protein-filled snack. This combination is perfect for breakfast, post-workout meals, or dessert.
✔ Best ways to enjoy:
- Swirl peanut butter into yogurt with honey and granola.
- Blend into a peanut butter yogurt smoothie with bananas.
- Use as a dip for apple slices or strawberries.
Alt Text: What mixes well with peanut butter? Try adding it to yogurt for a creamy, protein-packed snack.
11. Peanut Butter and Avocado: A Creamy Nutrient Boost
Combining peanut butter and avocado creates a smooth, nutrient-dense spread packed with healthy fats, fiber, and protein.
✔ Best ways to use:
- Mash together as a toast spread with a sprinkle of sea salt.
- Blend into a smoothie for extra creaminess.
- Use in burritos or wraps for a unique twist.
💡 Want more healthy pairings? Try our Best Breakfast Combos.
12. Peanut Butter and Orange Marmalade: A Zesty Combination
The citrusy sweetness of orange marmalade brightens the nutty richness of peanut butter, making it a flavorful sandwich spread.
✔ Best ways to enjoy:
- Spread on whole wheat toast for a balanced breakfast.
- Mix into oatmeal for a citrusy twist.
- Use as a dipping sauce for biscuits or crackers.
13. Peanut Butter and Strawberries: A Fresh and Fruity Pairing
Strawberries and peanut butter create a juicy, sweet, and slightly tangy mix that is perfect for snacks and desserts.
✔ Best ways to enjoy:
- Dip fresh strawberries in peanut butter.
- Blend into a strawberry peanut butter smoothie.
- Use as a topping for pancakes or waffles.
Alt Text: What mixes well with peanut butter? Fresh strawberries add a juicy, sweet contrast.
14. Peanut Butter and Basil: A Fresh Herbal Touch
Adding fresh basil to peanut butter introduces a mild peppery flavor, making it a great option for savory sandwiches and wraps.
✔ Best ways to enjoy:
- Spread on crusty bread with tomatoes for a fresh snack.
- Mix into salad dressings for an herbal peanut sauce.
- Use in wraps with chicken or tofu.
15. Peanut Butter and Pretzels: The Ultimate Salty-Sweet Snack
The salty crunch of pretzels perfectly balances the smooth and slightly sweet peanut butter, making it one of the best snack combinations.
✔ Best ways to enjoy:
- Dip pretzels directly into creamy peanut butter.
- Drizzle with melted dark chocolate for an indulgent treat.
- Crush pretzels over peanut butter yogurt bowls for added crunch.
🔗 Need more snack ideas? Try our Quick and Easy Snacks Collection.
FAQs About What Mixes Well with Peanut Butter
🔹 Can peanut butter be paired with savory foods?
Yes! Try peanut butter with bacon, pickles, or sriracha for a unique twist.
🔹 What are some healthy peanut butter pairings?
Bananas, apples, celery, yogurt, and dark chocolate are great options.
🔹 Can I use peanut butter in savory dishes?
Absolutely! Peanut butter is a key ingredient in Thai peanut sauce, satay marinades, and spicy stir-fries.
Final Thoughts on What Mixes Well with Peanut Butter
So, what mixes well with peanut butter? Whether you prefer classic pairings like PB&J or bold combinations like peanut butter and sriracha, there’s a perfect match for every taste.
From sweet treats to savory surprises, peanut butter’s versatility makes it a must-have ingredient in every kitchen.
🔗 For more creative peanut butter recipes, explore our Family Recipes collection!