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How old is PBJ?

Published in Food History 2 mins read

The peanut butter and jelly sandwich, commonly known as PBJ, is 123 years old, as of 2024.

The Genesis of the Beloved PBJ

The historical journey of the peanut butter and jelly sandwich commenced in 1901. This pivotal year marked the official debut of its first published recipe, introducing this now-iconic culinary combination to the public.

The Pioneering Recipe by Julia Davis Chandler

The groundbreaking recipe for the peanut butter and jelly sandwich was featured in the Boston Cooking School Magazine of Culinary Science and Domestic Economics. It was meticulously crafted by Julia Davis Chandler. In her innovative recipe, Chandler suggested using either currant or crab-apple jelly as the perfect complement to peanut butter. She enthusiastically described the blend as "delicious" and noted that, to her knowledge, it was an "original" creation at the time. This significant publication in 1901 laid the foundation for the PBJ to become a cherished and enduring staple in diets worldwide.

Key Milestones in PBJ's Early History

To highlight the inception of the PBJ:

Year Event Significance
1901 First Recipe Publication Julia Davis Chandler's recipe in the Boston Cooking School Magazine officially introduced the peanut butter and jelly sandwich to a wider audience, pioneering its widespread recognition.

This early historical record from 1901 establishes the age of the PBJ, tracing its roots to a specific, innovative culinary moment.