March 1st is National Peanut Butter Lover’s Day, a time to celebrate one of America’s most beloved ingredients. Whether you enjoy it straight from the jar, spread on toast, or baked into sweet treats, peanut butter is a versatile and delicious staple in kitchens across the country. At the Home Baking Association, we’re excited to share ways Family and Consumer Science (FACS) teachers and baking educators can bring this celebration into the classroom. But first, let’s take a quick look at the history of this iconic spread.
A Brief History of Peanut Butter
Peanut butter has a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. While ancient civilizations like the Aztecs and Incas ground peanuts into paste, modern peanut butter as we know it was popularized in the United States. Dr. John Harvey Kellogg, of cereal fame, patented a process for creating peanut butter in 1895 as a protein-rich food for patients at his sanitarium. By the early 20th century, peanut butter became a household staple, thanks to its affordability, long shelf life, and nutritional value. Today, it’s a beloved ingredient in everything from sandwiches to desserts, and its popularity continues to grow.
Here Are Some Tips for Educators Celebrating Peanut Butter in the Classroom
National Peanut Butter Lover’s Day is the perfect opportunity to engage students in hands-on learning while celebrating a timeless ingredient. Here are a few ideas for FACS teachers and baking educators:
Peanut Butter Taste Test: Introduce students to different types of peanut butter (creamy, crunchy, natural, etc.) and have them compare flavors, textures, and ingredients. This activity can spark discussions about food science, nutrition, and personal preferences.
Baking with Peanut Butter: Teach students how to incorporate peanut butter into baked goods. From cookies to brownies, peanut butter adds richness and flavor while providing a great opportunity to practice measuring, mixing, and baking techniques.
Nutritional Discussion: Use peanut butter as a starting point to discuss the importance of protein, healthy fats, and portion control. Students can learn how to read nutrition labels and make informed food choices.
Cultural Connections: Explore how peanut butter is used in different cuisines around the world. For example, students can learn about African peanut stew or Thai peanut sauce, broadening their understanding of global food traditions.
A Favorite Recipe: Peanut Butter Brownies
No celebration of National Peanut Butter Lover’s Day would be complete without a delicious recipe! These Peanut Butter Brownies are rich, fudgy, and packed with peanut butter flavor. They’re perfect for classroom baking or sharing with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup unsweetened
cocoa powder - 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and sugar. Add the eggs and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Drop spoonfuls of peanut butter onto the batter, then use a knife to swirl it into the brownie batter.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Let cool before slicing and serving.
National Peanut Butter Lover’s Day is a fun and delicious way to celebrate an ingredient that has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of millions. Whether you’re exploring its history, baking in the classroom, or simply enjoying a spoonful straight from the jar, peanut butter is a versatile and beloved staple that brings people together.
We hope you’ll try our Peanut Butter Brownies recipe and share your creations with us using the hashtag #BakeforFamilyFun. Happy baking!
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