Homemade Uncrustables Sandwiches: The Perfect Make-Ahead Snack

If you’ve ever bought pre-made Uncrustables sandwiches at the store, you know how convenient and tasty they can be. But did you know you can make these delicious sandwiches at home for a fraction of the price and with ingredients you can customize? Homemade Uncrustables Sandwiches are a perfect way to prep quick lunches for kids (or adults) or to keep in your freezer for those busy days when you need something fast.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the simple process of making these sandwiches, plus tips for freezing and storing them for later use. Whether you’re using peanut butter, nut butter, or Nutella, these sandwiches are a fun, portable snack everyone will love.

For more creative lunch ideas, check out these easy lunch prep ideas on Delish and make-ahead lunch recipes on EatingWell.

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Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

Making Homemade Uncrustables Sandwiches is incredibly simple and quick. With just a few basic ingredients and tools, you can create a stash of ready-to-eat sandwiches that will save you time and effort throughout the week.

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread: Lay out two pieces of bread on a clean surface.
2. Spread Peanut Butter and Jam: Spread a generous layer of peanut butter or your choice of nut butter on one side of both pieces of bread. Then, spread jam, jelly, or fruit preserves on top of the peanut butter on both slices of bread. Alternatively, you can place a small rounded dollop of jam in the center of one slice.
3. Assemble the Sandwich: Place both pieces of bread together with the peanut butter and jam sides facing inward, forming a sandwich.
4. Seal the Sandwich: Using a sandwich sealer, a biscuit/cookie cutter, or an upside-down cup or glass, cut out the center of the sandwich and remove the outer crusts. If you don’t have a sandwich sealer, you can crimp the edges with your fingers or a fork to seal the sandwich and ensure it stays together.
5. Wrap and Store: Wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a sandwich bag for easy storage and portability.

These Homemade Uncrustables Sandwiches are now ready for a quick snack or lunch. For added convenience, follow the instructions below for freezing.

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Freezing and Storing Homemade Uncrustables

Making Homemade Uncrustables Sandwiches ahead of time and freezing them ensures you always have a quick, ready-to-go meal. Here’s how to freeze them properly:

Freezing Instructions

1. Wrap the Sandwiches: Once the sandwiches are sealed and wrapped in plastic wrap or placed in sandwich bags, arrange them in a single layer inside a large gallon-size zip-top freezer bag.
2. Label and Lay Flat: Label the freezer bag with the date and contents, then lay the bag flat in the freezer. Be sure not to stack anything on top of the sandwiches until they are fully frozen. This ensures they freeze evenly and prevents them from sticking together.
3. Freeze Until Solid: Allow the sandwiches to freeze for several hours or overnight until they are completely frozen solid.
4. Storage After Freezing: Once the sandwiches are frozen, you can move the bag to a plastic food storage container for extra protection. Now your sandwiches are ready to be stored long-term in the freezer.

Using Frozen Uncrustables

To use the frozen Uncrustables, simply pull them straight out of the freezer and place them in lunch boxes. The sandwiches will typically thaw by lunchtime, making them a perfect hassle-free meal option. You can also enjoy them as a quick snack during the day – just let them sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes to thaw.

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Advanced Techniques

While the Homemade Uncrustables Sandwiches recipe is easy to make, there are a few advanced techniques you can use to customize and perfect your sandwiches.

1. Customize Fillings

Feel free to get creative with the fillings. If you’re using nut butters, you can experiment with almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for different flavors. For the jelly, consider using fruit preserves like strawberry, grape, or even apple butter. You can also try adding a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon to elevate the flavor profile.

2. Use Whole Grain or Gluten-Free Bread

For a healthier option, opt for whole wheat or whole grain sandwich bread. If you’re making these sandwiches for someone with dietary restrictions, choose gluten-free bread to keep them safe for gluten-sensitive individuals.

3. Add Extra Protein

For an extra protein boost, you can add a layer of sliced banana or protein powder to the peanut butter layer. Adding chia seeds or ground flax seeds can also increase the fiber content of the sandwiches, making them more nutritious.

4. Crimping the Edges

If you don’t have a sandwich sealer, you can use a fork to crimp the edges of the sandwich, sealing them together while also creating a pretty textured look. This works just as well as using a sandwich cutter and helps keep the sandwich intact.

5. Make Mini Uncrustables

For smaller portions or fun bite-sized snacks, use a mini biscuit cutter or smaller cup to cut out the sandwiches. These mini Homemade Uncrustables are perfect for kids or as a party snack.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

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Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

Homemade Uncrustables Sandwiches are great for busy days, but proper storage and maintenance will ensure they stay fresh and tasty for weeks.

Storing Fresh Uncrustables

If you’re not freezing them, store your Uncrustables in an airtight container or a sandwich bag in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. However, they’re best enjoyed within the first day or two for optimal flavor and texture.

Freezer Shelf Life

When stored in the freezer, your Homemade Uncrustables Sandwiches can last up to 1-2 months. After that, they may start to lose their texture and flavor. Be sure to label and date your freezer bags for easy tracking.

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Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

Making Homemade Uncrustables Sandwiches means you can easily adapt the recipe to fit various dietary preferences or restrictions.

1. Nut-Free Version

If you need a nut-free alternative, swap out peanut butter for sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter. These options have a similar texture and taste but are safe for individuals with nut allergies.

2. Gluten-Free

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread. There are many brands offering gluten-free sandwich bread, and they work just as well as traditional bread for this recipe.

3. Dairy-Free

To make your Uncrustables dairy-free, ensure the bread doesn’t contain any dairy (many commercial brands offer dairy-free options). You can also use dairy-free butter or margarine for sealing the bread, though it’s optional.

4. Vegan Option

For a vegan version, simply use plant-based spreads like vegan peanut butter and choose a vegan jam or fruit preserve. Make sure to double-check that your bread is vegan-friendly as well.

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FAQs About The Recipe

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes! You can use any type of bread you prefer, including whole wheat, gluten-free, or even flavored breads like cinnamon raisin. Just make sure the bread slices are soft enough to seal properly.

How long can I store the frozen sandwiches?

Frozen Uncrustables can last up to 1-2 months in the freezer. After that, they may start to lose their flavor and texture.

Can I add extras like sliced bananas or chocolate chips?

Definitely! You can add sliced bananas, chocolate chips, or even marshmallow fluff to the peanut butter or jam for a fun twist. Just be careful not to overload the sandwich, or it may not seal properly.

Are these sandwiches safe for toddlers or young kids?

Yes, these Homemade Uncrustables Sandwiches are great for kids, but always be cautious with nut butters if there are allergy concerns. For younger children, you can cut the sandwiches into smaller pieces to make them easier to eat.

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Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Homemade Uncrustables Sandwiches are a simple, fun, and versatile snack that can be easily customized to suit your preferences. Whether you’re making them for a quick lunch, school snack, or freezer-friendly meal prep, these sandwiches are a game-changer. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create your own version of this beloved snack and store it for future use. Freeze them for busy days, or enjoy them fresh – either way, these sandwiches are sure to be a hit with the whole family.