This playful cocktail takes the classic flavors of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and turns them into a creamy, nutty, and fruity sipper. It’s nostalgic, a little indulgent, and surprisingly easy to make. I’ve made this drink countless times-here’s a tip I picked up along the way: balance is everything. Too much jelly syrup can overpower the peanut notes, and not enough cream can make it feel flat. When you get it just right, though? It’s like childhood in a glass-with a grown-up twist.
Peanut Butter And Jelly
What You’ll Need
Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 1
Glass: Rocks glass or Martini glass
Ingredients
– 1.5 oz (45 ml) peanut butter whiskey
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) Chambord (or other raspberry liqueur)
– 1 oz (30 ml) half-and-half (or almond milk for dairy-free)
– 0.5 oz (15 ml) grape jelly syrup (or sub with strawberry or raspberry syrup)
– Ice cubes
– Optional garnish: mini PB&J sandwich or fresh berries on a skewer
Method
- Chill your glass. Pop your rocks glass in the freezer while you prep the cocktail. This helps keep the drink nice and cold without watering it down too quickly.
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Enough to chill the drink thoroughly, about halfway full.
- Add the ingredients:
- 1.5 oz peanut butter whiskey
- 0.5 oz Chambord (or another berry liqueur)
- 1 oz half-and-half
- 0.5 oz grape jelly syrup
- Shake well. Give it a solid 15-20 seconds of shaking until the outside of the shaker feels frosty. This chills and blends everything smoothly.
- Strain into your chilled glass. No ice needed in the glass-this one’s meant to be silky and smooth.
- Garnish if you like. A tiny PB&J sandwich on the rim is always a crowd-pleaser. Or go simple with a few fresh raspberries or a swirl of jelly on top.
Tips & Tricks
– Don’t skip the shake: Shaking with ice helps emulsify the cream and syrup, giving you that rich, smooth texture.
– Too sweet? Use unsweetened almond milk and cut the jelly syrup back to 0.25 oz. You can always add more later.
– No grape jelly syrup? Warm up 1 tablespoon of grape jelly with 1 tablespoon of water in the microwave, then stir until smooth. Let it cool before using.
– Vegan version: Use a plant-based creamer and double-check that your whiskey and syrup are vegan-friendly.
Storage
This cocktail is best made fresh, but you can prep a batch (minus the dairy) ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just shake each serving with the half-and-half and ice before pouring.
Serving Suggestions
This drink is on the dessert side, so it pairs best with light, salty, or chocolatey treats:
– Salted pretzels – The salt balances out the sweetness perfectly.
– Dark chocolate pieces – Adds a rich depth that plays off the berry notes.
– Vanilla ice cream – For an ultra-indulgent pairing, pour the cocktail over a scoop. Trust me, it’s next level.
Recipe Variations
Nutty Berry Twist
– Use almond butter liqueur and blackberry syrup instead of peanut butter whiskey and grape syrup.
– Mix with half-and-half and serve over crushed ice.
Sweet & Spicy
– Add a dash of hot pepper jelly to the shaker with peanut butter whiskey and cream.
– Rim the glass with sugar for a sweet contrast.
Chocolate Dream
– Replace whiskey with chocolate vodka, and use raspberry liqueur.
– Blend with ice and drizzle chocolate syrup on top.
Non-Alcoholic Version
– Use peanut butter syrup instead of whiskey and raspberry juice in place of liqueur.
– Shake with a splash of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a milkshake-style treat.
FAQs
Can I make this if I have a nut allergy?
Yes! Try sunflower seed butter whiskey or a nut-free syrup. You’ll still get that creamy, roasty flavor without the allergens.
Can I make this less sweet?
Absolutely. Use unsweetened almond milk and scale back the jelly syrup. You can even use a fresh berry purée for a more natural sweetness.
What’s the best jelly to use?
Grape and raspberry are classic, but strawberry, apricot, or even blueberry work beautifully. Just keep the texture smooth.
Can I make a batch for a party?
Yep! Mix the whiskey, liqueur, and jelly syrup ahead of time. Store in the fridge. Right before serving, shake individual portions with half-and-half and ice.
What’s a fun garnish?
A mini PB&J sandwich on a toothpick is always a hit. Or skewer a few fresh berries for something simpler but still eye-catching.
Final Thoughts
This has been my go-to cocktail for summer nights when I want something a little fun and unexpected. It’s nostalgic, comforting, and always gets a smile. Whether you’re making one for yourself or a tray for friends, this Peanut Butter and Jelly cocktail is a sweet surprise that never disappoints.
