Uncrustables Copycat Recipe: Easy Homemade Sandwiches Your Kids Will Love

I’ve always loved Uncrustables for their perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors wrapped in that soft, sealed crust. But making them at home means you can customize fillings and avoid any unwanted ingredients. Plus, it’s a fun way to bring a nostalgic treat into your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• Measure accurately for the perfect dough texture.
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• Provides a subtle sweetness to the crust.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Enhances the overall flavor of the crust.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• Helps the crust rise slightly for a tender bite.
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter
• Cut into small cubes to ensure a flaky texture.
• 3/4 cup milk
• Adds moisture to bind the dough.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Infuses a hint of warmth and depth to the filling.
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• Smooth and rich, the classic filling.
• 1/2 cup strawberry jam
• Sweet and fruity complement to the peanut butter.
• Optional: 1 egg, beaten
• For sealing the edges and adding a golden finish.

Equipment

To craft the perfect Uncrustables at home, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Mixing Bowls: Use a large bowl for combining your dough ingredients and a smaller one for the filling.
• Rolling Pin: Essential for rolling out the dough evenly to the desired thickness.
• Pastry Brush: Perfect for applying the egg wash that seals the edges and gives a beautiful golden finish.
• Cookie Cutter or Sharp Knife: Helps in cutting the dough into consistent, round shapes for each sandwich.
• Baking Sheet: Provides a flat surface for baking your Uncrustables to a perfect golden brown.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Fork: Great for crimping the edges to ensure your fillings stay perfectly sealed inside.
• Spatula: Useful for transferring the sandwiches from the rolling pin to the baking sheet without breaking them.

Having these tools on hand will streamline the process and help you achieve that homemade Uncrustables magic effortlessly.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Preparing Uncrustables in advance not only saves time but also ensures you have delicious, ready-to-eat treats whenever you need them. Here’s how I masterfully prepare and store these delightful sandwiches:

Assembly and Freezing

1. Prepare the Dough and Fillings

• Bake the dough according to the recipe instructions. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.
• While the dough cools, prepare your chosen fillings, such as creamy peanut butter and strawberry jam.

1. Assemble the Sandwiches

• Roll out the cooled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
• Use a round cookie cutter to cut out circles from the dough.
• Spread a generous layer of peanut butter on one dough circle, leaving a small border around the edge.
• Add a spoonful of strawberry jam on top of the peanut butter.
• Place another dough circle over the fillings, pressing the edges with a fork to seal tightly.

1. Prepare for Freezing

• Place the assembled sandwiches on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch each other.
• Freeze the sandwiches on the baking sheet for about 2 hours or until solid.

1. Store Properly

• Transfer the frozen sandwiches to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container.
• Label the bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Thawing and Serving

1. Thaw Before Serving

• Remove the desired number of sandwiches from the freezer.
• Let them thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes.
• Alternatively, if you’re in a hurry, microwave the sandwich for 20-30 seconds until slightly warm.

1. Enjoy Fresh

• Once thawed, the Uncrustables are ready to enjoy just like freshly made ones.
• For a golden finish, you can lightly toast the sandwich in a pan or toaster oven for an extra crispy exterior.

Tips for Best Results

By following these make-ahead instructions, you can effortlessly enjoy homemade Uncrustables anytime, ensuring a perfect balance of flaky dough and sweet or savory fillings with every bite.

Directions

Creating homemade Uncrustables is a rewarding process that results in tasty, customizable sandwiches. Follow these steps to craft your perfect treat.

Prepare the Filling

1. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter with 2 tablespoons of strawberry jam.
2. Stir the mixture until it’s smooth and evenly blended.
3. Set the filling aside, ready to be spread onto the dough.

Assemble the Sandwiches

1. On a lightly floured surface, roll out your dough to about 1/8-inch thickness.
2. Use a 3-inch cookie cutter or a sharp knife to cut out circles from the dough.
3. Place a heaping tablespoon of the peanut butter and jam filling in the center of half of the dough circles.
4. Top each filled circle with an unfilled dough circle, pressing gently to begin forming the sandwich.

Seal the Edges

1. In a small bowl, beat one egg with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash.
2. Using a pastry brush, apply the egg wash around the edges of the dough circles.
3. Press the edges firmly with a fork to ensure the sandwiches are sealed tightly, preventing the filling from leaking out during freezing and thawing.

Freeze the Uncrustables

1. Place the assembled sandwiches on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they don’t touch each other.
2. Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and let the sandwiches freeze for about 1 hour or until solid.
3. Once frozen, transfer the Uncrustables to a resealable freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
4. Store the bag in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the sandwich at room temperature or heat it in the microwave for a quick, warm treat.

Storage Instructions

Once I’ve perfected my Uncrustables, proper storage is key to maintaining their fresh, homemade goodness. Here’s how I ensure they stay delicious whether you’re prepping for the week or saving some for later.

Freezing Your Uncrustables

Freezing is the best way to keep your Uncrustables fresh for an extended period. Follow these steps to freeze them properly:

1. Assemble the Sandwiches: Complete the assembly process by sealing the edges with egg wash and a fork.
2. Prepare for Freezing:

• Place each sandwich on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Ensure they are not touching to prevent sticking.

1. Flash Freeze:

• Put the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours until the sandwiches are solid.

1. Store Properly:

• Transfer the frozen sandwiches into a freezer-safe airtight container or a resealable plastic bag.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Refrigerator Storage

If you plan to enjoy your Uncrustables within a few days, the refrigerator is a convenient option:

1. Cooling: After assembling, let the sandwiches cool to room temperature.
2. Wrap Securely:

• Individually wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container.

1. Refrigerate:

• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Thawing and Serving

When you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Uncrustables, proper thawing ensures they taste just as fresh as day one:

1. Room Temperature:

• Remove from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

1. Quick Thaw:

• For a faster option, microwave each sandwich on a microwave-safe plate for 20-30 seconds.

1. Reheat (Optional):

• If you prefer a warm, flaky crust, toast them lightly in a toaster oven or on a skillet for a minute on each side.

Storage Duration

To keep track of freshness, here’s a quick reference:

By following these storage tips, you’ll always have perfectly preserved Uncrustables ready to satisfy your cravings anytime.

Serving Suggestions

I love finding creative ways to enjoy my homemade Uncrustables. Here are some of my favorite serving ideas to elevate your snack or meal time:

Classic Lunchbox Combo

• Pair with Fresh Sides: Add crunchy carrot sticks and sweet apple slices for a balanced meal.
• Include a Drink: A cold glass of milk or a refreshing juice box complements the sandwich perfectly.

Breakfast Boost

• Warm and Toasted: Lightly toast the Uncrustables on a skillet until golden brown for a cozy start to your day.
• Serve with Beverages: Enjoy with a steaming cup of coffee or a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice.

Snack Time Delight

• Dip Them Up: Offer a side of creamy peanut butter or tangy yogurt dip for extra flavor.
• Add Some Crunch: Include a handful of crispy pretzels or your favorite chips to enhance the texture.

Sweet Treat Variation

• Drizzle with Chocolate: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the top for a decadent dessert.
• Dust with Sugar: Lightly dust with powdered sugar to add a sweet finish.

Savory Twist

• Change the Fillings: Use ham and cheese or turkey and avocado instead of the traditional peanut butter and jam for a savory option.
• Serve with Savory Sides: Pair with pickles or a small salad to complete the meal.

Fun Presentation Ideas

• Cut into Shapes: Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes that kids will love.
• Create a Platter: Arrange different flavors on a serving platter for a delightful assortment.

Beverage Pairings

• Refreshing Drinks: Pair with iced tea, lemonade, or a cold glass of milk to complement the flavors.
• Hot Beverages: Enjoy alongside a warm cup of cocoa or tea during colder months.

By incorporating these serving suggestions, you can enjoy your homemade Uncrustables in a variety of delicious and engaging ways, perfect for any time of day.

Conclusion

Making Uncrustables at home has been a game changer for me. There’s something special about crafting these treats myself and knowing exactly what’s inside. Plus it’s super fun to experiment with different fillings and flavors.

I hope you’ll give this copycat recipe a try and enjoy the same delicious results. Whether it’s for a quick snack or a delightful lunch addition, homemade Uncrustables are sure to bring smiles to your family’s faces. Happy baking!