Growing up in a bustling household with five siblings, one quickly learns the importance of self-sufficiency, especially when it comes to satisfying hunger pangs. From crafting simple lunches of black beans and rice to assembling mini cracker sandwiches for a quick snack, I honed my culinary skills at a young age. While these dishes may not require any gourmet expertise, the act of preparing them instilled in me a sense of independence during my childhood.
A snack that holds a special place in my heart from those formative years is the classic peanut butter cracker sandwich. Whether embarking on a family road trip or grabbing a treat at the gas station, my eyes would always search for the vibrant orange packages containing the crackers wrapped in cellophane. There was just something about those brightly colored crackers that made them superior to the more subdued varieties.
While my parents occasionally stocked the pantry with off-brand Ritz Bits for a convenient on-the-go option, my preferred version of this snack was always the “homemade” rendition — a generous dollop of peanut butter sandwiched between two saltine crackers. While it may be easier to purchase pre-made versions, there is a certain charm to crafting these snacks at home that simply cannot be replicated.
To this day, both peanut butter and saltine crackers remain staples in my kitchen, allowing me to effortlessly whip up this nostalgic snack whenever the craving strikes. In fact, as I write this, you can likely find me indulging in a peanut butter cracker sandwich without a care in the world.
Why is this humble snack such a winner, you may ask? Well, it ticks off all the boxes: a hint of saltiness, a satisfying crunch, and a creamy finish. Moreover, it is incredibly simple to prepare — just grab a jar of peanut butter, spread a dollop between two crackers, and you’re good to go. Not to mention, this snack is budget-friendly, costing around $4 for a box of crackers and $2 for a jar of peanut butter.
Every Southern household understands the value of having peanut butter and saltine crackers on hand at all times. These pantry essentials are not only versatile but also have a long shelf life. Saltines, in particular, play a crucial role in classic Southern dishes like Fire Crackers, Atlantic Beach Pie, and Cracker Toffee, as well as serving as the perfect accompaniment to pimento cheese and West Indies.
Preparing this snack is a breeze — simply slather your preferred type of peanut butter (creamy or crunchy) onto a saltine cracker, sandwich it with another cracker, and voila! You can easily assemble these sandwiches on the fly or make a batch in advance and store them in an airtight container for later enjoyment. For a special treat, consider melting a handful of chocolate chips to dip half the sandwich or drizzling some honey for an added touch of sweetness
