The peanut butter and jelly sandwich may be the most famous sandwich in all of American history. The recipe for peanut butter and jelly sandwiches first appeared in 1901 in The Boston Cooking School magazine. The sandwich combined oily peanut butter with sweet jelly, creating the perfect finger sandwich for any occasion. Jellies and jams had been concocted within the home for years, but commercial jellies hit the shelves in the 1890s. Early brands of jelly included Smuckers, which began selling their products in 1897. The commercialization of pre-packaged jellies and peanut butter created the perfect, simple ingredients to make a sandwich.
Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are a staple in American homes; children grow up eating the delightful, tasty sandwiches. Across the Atlantic, people are unaware of the decadent taste created by the combination of peanut butter and various jams. A Great British Baking Show contestant created a peanut butter and berry cheesecake. The judges, chefs Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith, were flabbergasted by the crazy combination of ingredients. To American viewers, the combination seemed normal, but to British viewers the concept was putrid. This episode exemplified Americans’ love for their peanut butter and berry snacks.
The love for peanut butter and jelly sandwiches expands beyond taste and enters the realm of harmonious perfection. In 2004, the Buckwheat Boys released a silly little song that transformed America. The lyrics may be simplistic, but that did not limit the profound impact of the tune. The song begins with the line, “It’s peanut butter jelly time.” This perfectly sets up the song and allows the listener to know what time it is. Although it is a silly song written about a sandwich, it is very well-known. Senior Adelee Kaiton and Junior Gordie Kaiton have a family tradition of singing the song “Peanut Butter Jelly Time” whenever they eat the sandwich. Their favorite lyrics are: “Peanut Butter Jelly with a baseball bat.” Gordie Kaiton says, “I love eating peanut butter and jelly sandwiches because they remind me of my family.”
The peanut butter and jelly sandwich is the perfect sandwich for a quick and easy snack. The only ingredients that are need are bread, peanut butter, and a delightful jam flavor. Peanut butter and jellies are America’s favorite dynamic duo, and can unite the country in a way nothing else can.
