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Easy Homemade Uncrustables: Best Freezer-Friendly PB&J

homemade uncrustables - featured image

These Easy Homemade Uncrustables are freezer-friendly, ridiculously simple, and taste better than the store-bought version. Make a batch in under 15 minutes for a quick, cost-effective lunch or snack that kids and adults love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 slices soft white bread or whole wheat bread
  • ½ cup creamy peanut butter (or crunchy)
  • ½ cup strawberry jam or grape jelly
  • Optional: honey, cinnamon, Nutella, sliced bananas

Instructions

  1. Prep your workspace: Clear your counter and lay out bread slices. Take peanut butter and jelly out of the fridge 10 minutes before starting to bring to room temperature. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Flatten the bread: Gently roll each slice of bread with a rolling pin until about ¼ inch thick. Don’t press too hard—just make it pliable.
  3. Spread the peanut butter: Spread about 1 tablespoon of peanut butter onto one slice of flattened bread, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
  4. Add the jelly: Spread about 1 tablespoon of jelly on top of the peanut butter, keeping it away from the edges.
  5. Top and press: Place a second flattened slice of bread on top, lining up the edges. Press down gently around the filling to push out any air pockets.
  6. Cut and seal: Press a round cutter (3-4 inches) firmly through the center of the sandwich. If using a fork, crimp the edges all the way around to seal tightly.
  7. Freeze flat: Place each uncrustable on the parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer, not touching. Freeze for at least 2 hours until solid.
  8. Package and label: Transfer frozen uncrustables to a freezer-safe bag or container. Squeeze out as much air as possible, label with date and flavor, and store for up to 3 months.

Notes

For perfect seals, dip fingers in water and run along edges before pressing. Use room temperature spreads for easier spreading. Flash freeze on a sheet pan before bagging to prevent sticking. Label bags with date and flavor. For best texture, use soft white bread—avoid bread with large air pockets or crusty edges.

Nutrition

Keywords: homemade uncrustables, freezer-friendly PB&J, easy lunch prep, school lunch ideas, peanut butter and jelly, meal prep snacks