There are plenty of reasons peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are a century ride rest stop staple: Peanut butter is filling, shelf-stable, and most importantly, delicious. But there are plenty of other ways to get your fix, from easy homemade treats to convenience store classics. Here are some of our favorites. (Not into nuts? Our book Fuel Your Ride is packed with tasty recipes and nutrition strategies to help boost your performance.)
Between Two (or More) Slices of Bread
With Banana: “The perfect touring lunch,” says associate digital editor Caitlin Giddings, who estimates she scarfed down 380 of them during her five years of intensive touring and leading trips for the Adventure Cycling Association. Want to get decadent? Add marshmallow fluff.
With Honey and Bacon: Yes, it’s from The Winnie the Pooh Cookbook (which also features one of literature’s most beloved cyclists: Christopher Robin). For a grown-up version, swap prosciutto for bacon. Or not.
With Speculoos Spread: America’s obsession with Belgian cookie butter means it’s likely landed at a grocery store near you.
With Pickle: Before you write this one off, just try it, OK? The flavor combo is surprisingly good. Plus it delivers sodium, which you’re sweating out. Pro tip: To prevent soggy sandwiches, blot the pickles before assembling.
PB&J; Rolls: These bite-size, sushi-inspired snacks satisfy your nutritional needs without the mess. Here’s how to make them:
The Double Decker: That’d be: bread/PB/bread/jelly/bread. Nom nom nom.
From the Convenience Store
Smuckers Uncrustables: It’s almost like these mess-free sandwich pockets were invented just for us.
Peanut Butter–Filled Pretzel Nuggets: And if your idea of a “convenience store” is Whole Foods, they make a version with jelly, too.
Peanut Butter Crackers: Whether you’re partial to Ritz bits, the Keebler Elves, or the legendary ToastChee, they’ll keep your pedals turning.
Nutter Butter Creme Patties: Carry a slab in your pocket and break off wafers as you go.
Peanut Butter Cereal: This comes in many forms, but we’re gonna go on record here: Nothing beats PB Cap’n Crunch.
Straight From the Container
Peanut Butter and Co. Squeeze Packs: Natural peanut butter, on its own or blended with dark chocolate or honey. DIY: Scoop PB into a resealable pill bag (available at drug stores), then bite off the corner when it’s time to dig in.
Houseables Cosmetic Jars: These food-safe, unbreakable 2-ounce containers (you can find ’em on Amazon) will keep your PB stash secure and make dipping easy.
In an Energy Gel Flask: Reusable baby food pouches work well, too.
GU’s Peanut Butter Energy Gel: Need a quick boost? GU’s gels contain two types of carbohydrates (maltodextrin and fructose), which your body absorbs faster than single-sugar carbs.
With Chocolate
PB and Nutella Sandwich: It’s the perfect touring lunch, Euro-style.
Justin’s Dark Chocolate Organic Peanut Butter Cups: Freeze ’em before your ride for less mess and maximum refreshment.
Clif’s Organic Chocolate Nut-Butter-Filled Bar: If you’ve ever spread PB on granola bars: This is your time.
These Amazing Homemade Chocolate PB Bars: Courtesy of cyclocross world U23 silver medalist Ellen Noble’s biggest fan, her grandmother. As a midride treat, they’re best served during cold outings—the topping melts easily.
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Alterna-Sandwiches
Between Two Stroopwafels: Try UnTapped Maple’s new raspberry flavor for a New England twist on the PB&J.;
On Small Rice Cakes with Mini Chocolate Chips: Out for a short spin? This is low in calories but still feels like a treat.
On a Tortilla, Drizzled with Honey… or in a pita pocket.
Do-Si-Dos—Oatmeal/PB Girl Scout Cookies: Do it for the children.
Peanut Butter Bites: Packed with protein and heart-healthy fat, these sweet-and-savory snacks will help keep hunger pangs at bay on long, casual rides. Here’s the recipe.
