Deep-Fried Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches

Make the white chocolate ganache (optional)

1. Place the white chocolate in a heatproof bowl and rest the bowl in a saucepan over but not touching simmering water or put the chocolate in the top pan of a double boiler. Heat the chocolate until melted, occasionally stirring gently with a spatula to help the melting along.☞ TESTER TIP: Be careful not to let so much as a drop of water get in the chocolate or it may seize.
2. When the chocolate has fully melted, reduce the heat to low. Switch to a whisk and slowly add the cream, whisking constantly until fully incorporated. Remove the pan from the heat and scrape the ganache into a heatproof bowl. Cover with aluminum foil to keep warm.

Make the deep-fried peanut butter and jelly

1. Pour enough oil in a deep pot or deep-fryer to measure about 3 inches. Heat the oil to 325°F (165°C).
2. Cut the bread into 8 slices, each about 1/4 inch thick. Go ahead and make 4 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. If you're a human, you should know how to do this. But for this fried version, be sure you don’t overload them with too much PB or J. Before closing each sandwich, add a layer of banana chips if you dare.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add 1/2 cup milk and vanilla and whisk until a smooth batter forms. If necessary, add more milk to create a dippable consistency.
4. When the oil is hot, make sure all the sandwiches are tightly closed. Then, working with 1 sandwich at a time, dip it into the batter and turn it gently to thoroughly coat it. Lift it from the batter and let the excess batter drip back into the bowl. Using tongs to hold the sandwich tightly on 1 end, submerge the sandwich halfway into the hot oil and fry for 15 seconds, then release the sandwich into the oil. It should now float. Fry the sandwich, turning once, until golden brown on both sides, 2 to 2 1/2 minutes per side. [Editor's Note: If the sandwich isn't turning golden brown in the suggested time, increase the temperature of the oil to 350°F (177°C).] Using the tongs, drop the deep-fried PB&J onto paper towels or a brown paper bag to drain. Repeat with the remaining sandwiches.
5. Serve the warm sandwiches with the white chocolate ganache, if using, on the side for dipping. Originally published February 11, 2014.