13 Simple Summer Peanut Butter Recipes & Ideas

When summer is in full swing, you need food that brings you joy, but also satisfies. This summer, let peanut butter be that food! Whether you’re after peanut butter treats, an easy breakfast or a portable snack, peanut butter packs the flavor and protein to fuel any summer activity. Here are 13 of our favorite ways to enjoy peanut butter this summer. 

Peanut Butter for Protein & More

There’s a good chance your summer schedule is packed. Whether it’s vacations, days at the lake or family get-togethers, you’re going to need some sustenance for fueling the fun. Peanut butter is the perfect food for that – the nutrition in peanut butter is packed with plant-based protein and healthy fats that supply energy to help keep you fuller, longer. It’s also rich in vitamins and minerals that support heart, skin, hair and bone health!

Ways to Use Peanut Butter this Summer

1. Smoothie/Smoothie Bowl

Use peanut butter as the base for your smoothie or smoothie bowl. Its creamy texture pairs well with yogurt and a variety of fruits and even vegetables. Add liquid components first to your blender, then add peanut butter (remember, a serving is 2 tablespoons) and other solid ingredients and flavorings, then blend until smooth. Try our Peanut Butter Power Smoothie recipe here!

2. S’mores

Your summer s’more tastes even better when you add a layer of our creamy or crunchy peanut butter! Simply swipe a tablespoon on a graham cracker before adding your chocolate and toasted marshmallow.  

3. Freezer PB&J’s

It’s a hack that’s perfect for summer! Grab a loaf of bread of your choice, then assemble several peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. Wrap each in foil and throw in the freezer. When you’re hungry or need a quick bite for camp or a road trip, just grab a sandwich and go. 

4. Frozen Peanut Butter Chocolate Bananas

If you’re after a delicious but nourishing way to cool off, grab a bunch of ripe bananas and make this snack. Peel the bananas, then slice, cover with peanut butter and freeze on a parchment-lined baking sheet for at least 20 minutes. Drizzle tops with melted chocolate and freeze again until solid.

5. Peanut Butter-inspired Milkshakes

What’s better than a milkshake on a hot day!? We argue not much, especially when you add peanut butter to it. Almost any flavor of milkshake tastes better with a tablespoon or two of our creamy or crunchy peanut butter - chocolate, vanilla, banana and even strawberry!

6. Salad Dressing

A big green salad is refreshing, especially when you toss it with a dressing made with peanut butter, fresh lime juice, ginger, soy sauce and lots of garlic. 

7. Bruschetta

Yes, bruschetta is normally savory and made with tomatoes, but we would argue that a sweeter version made with peanut butter is equally delicious. Start with slices of toasted baguette, spread with creamy or crunchy peanut butter, then top with diced fresh strawberries. Add a few flakes of sea salt or a dash of vanilla to bring it all together!

8. Peanut Butter Frosting

Summer treats deserve some kind of topping, and peanut butter frosting is our favorite. Mix room temperature peanut butter with confectioners sugar, vanilla and a bit of milk to create a smooth and creamy frosting perfect for brownies, cakes, cookies and our delicious graham crackers.

9. Ice Cream or Yogurt Add-in

Add a bit of peanut butter to your plain ice cream or yogurt. Let the peanut butter come to room temperature before adding it in as a swirl or topping. It’s up to you if you want to throw in a few sprinkles.

10. Homemade Granola Bars

Store-bought granola bars are convenient, but it’s not that hard to make your own at home. Peanut butter makes a great “glue” for keeping them together. Try one of our favorite recipes here.

11. Peanut Butter Popsicles

Next time you make popsicles, especially berry or chocolate flavored, add a bit of peanut butter for a creamy, nutty vibe!

12. Peanut Butter Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Make a batch of peanut butter cookies, then add some ice cream to make sandwiches. If you’re after even more peanut butter flavor, add a swipe of the nut butter to the inside of the cookies before sandwiching them together!

13. Muddy Buddies

Whether you’re on the trail, sitting by the campfire or watching an outdoor movie, muddy buddy mix is always a good idea. Make the traditional version, or have fun with mixing flavors and mix-ins.