Making homemade Uncrustables is an easy way to save money while keeping a stash of frozen, ready-to-eat sandwiches on hand. This DIY version is just as convenient as store-bought and perfect for kids or anyone who needs a quick snack.
For more kid-friendly recipes, check out my Cold Lunch Box Ideas next.
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I started making these homemade Uncrustables when I had a big stack of bread to use up and couldn’t justify the price of the store-bought ones. They quickly became my go-to pregnancy snack—something I can grab from the freezer and enjoy without any fuss.
I love that this is a waste-free recipe, since I save the crusts for other uses, and it works whether you have a sealer or not. Plus, knowing I can freeze a batch means there’s always a quick bite ready when I or my kids are craving it.
Why You’ll Love this Uncrustable Recipe
Great for Picky Kids. Crust-free and easy to eat, they’re a hit in any lunchbox.
Perfect for Meal Prep. Make a batch ahead of time for a packed lunch—just thaw and enjoy.
Affordable. Skip the pricey 10-pack of Uncrustables at the grocery store and make your own for a fraction of the cost.
Variety. Switch up the fillings, customize the flavors, and choose any bread you like. I have some tasty options!
What are Uncrustables?
Uncrustables are pre-made, sealed sandwiches from Smuckers that you’ll usually find in the freezer aisle at the grocery store. They come in a variety of flavors and are meant to be eaten cold or at room temperature.
Are Uncrustables healthy or unhealthy?
Store-bought versions can be high in added sugars and preservatives, but this recipe contains less processed ingredients. Making them at home also lets you choose healthier breads and fillings.
How to Make Uncrustables
I spread about a tablespoon of peanut butter in the center of each bread slice first. This keeps the jelly from soaking through and makes the sandwich hold up better in the freezer. Then I add my jelly or other filling on top of the peanut butter, place the second slice of bread over it, and use my favorite Uncrustable maker to seal and crimp the edges.
How to Seal Sandwiches Without a Sealer
If you don’t have a sandwich sealer, you can still make Uncrustables. Just press down firmly around the edges with the back of a fork to seal the bread, then cut away the crust with a sharp knife. You can save those crusts for breadcrumbs, French toast sticks, or even toss them into a bread pudding—nothing goes to waste.
Freezing and Defrosting Homemade Uncrustables
Once they’re sealed, I place them in a reusable food storage bag and freeze them for later. To defrost, I either move them to the fridge the night before or leave one on the counter for about 30 minutes. They taste just as fresh as the day I made them.
Filling and Bread Ideas
I like to switch things up depending on my mood or what’s in the fridge. Here are some of my favorite combinations, plus bread options that work well:
Homemade Uncrustables Filling Ideas
- PB & J Banana – Peanut butter, fruit spread, and banana slices
- Nutella & Strawberry – Hazelnut spread with fresh sliced strawberries
- Strawberry Jam & Cream Cheese – Tart, creamy, and sweet combo
- Pesto, Turkey & Mozzarella Cheese – Fresh basil pesto for flavor + lean protein
- Pizza Style – Marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni or veggie toppings
- Hummus & Cucumber – Hummus with sliced cucumber, plus a sprinkle of salt and pepper
Sandwich Bread Options
- 100% Whole Wheat Bread – More fiber and nutrients than white bread
- Sprouted Grain Bread – Packed with protein and fiber; softer if warmed slightly before sealing
- Gluten-Free Bread – Allergy-friendly option; choose one with a soft texture for best results
Tools You’ll Need to Make Uncrustables at Home
- Butter Knife or Spreader – For evenly applying peanut butter, jelly, or other fillings without tearing the bread.
- Sandwich Sealer – My go-to tool for making perfectly crimped and sealed crustless sandwiches in seconds.
- Reusable Food Storage Bags – Ideal for freezing and storing your homemade Uncrustables while cutting down on single-use plastic.
- Cutting Board – A flat, sturdy surface for assembling sandwiches.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it cheaper to make your own Uncrustables?
Yes, making your own Uncrustables is cheaper. A 10-pack from the store can cost around $9–$11 (about $1 per sandwich), while homemade versions average about $0.67 each. Over time, that savings adds up—plus you get more sandwiches from the same bread, peanut butter, and jelly.
What is the best bread to use for homemade Uncrustables?
Soft bread works best so it seals easily without tearing. Whole wheat, sprouted grain, or gluten-free bread are all great options depending on your preferences.
What do they do with the crust when they make Uncrustables?
When I make them at home, I save the crusts to use in other recipes like breadcrumbs, French toast sticks, or bread pudding. Nothing goes to waste.
Why can’t you eat Uncrustables after 10 hours?
After 10 hours at room temperature, the bread can dry out and the filling may no longer be food-safe. For freshness and safety, they’re best eaten within a few hours of thawing or kept refrigerated until ready to eat.
More Lunch Recipes for Kids
DID YOU MAKE THIS HOMEMADE UNCRUSTABLES RECIPE?
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DIY Uncrustables Recipe
Equipment
- Uncrustables Sealer
Ingredients
- 2 slices bread whole wheat, sprouted grain, gluten-free, or your choice
- 1 tbsp peanut butter or other spread
- 1 tbsp fruit spread jam, or jelly
Instructions
- Lay out two slices of bread. Spread the peanut butter in the center of one slice, keeping it away from the edges. This helps prevent the bread from getting soggy once you add the jelly.
- Spread the fruit spread on top of the peanut butter, again keeping it centered.
- Place the second slice of bread on top.
- Use an Uncrustable maker to seal, cut, and crimp the sandwich.
- Place the sandwich in a reusable food storage bag or container.
- Store in the freezer for later.
