Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread
If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the goodness of bananas and the creamy richness of peanut butter, then this Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is just what you need! This recipe has been a family favorite for years, perfect for busy weeknights or joyful gatherings. The sweet, nutty flavors come together to create a bread that’s not just delicious but also comforting. It’s the kind of snack that makes you feel at home, whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment to yourself.
What makes this banana bread even more special is the addition of chopped Reese’s cups. Each bite brings a little surprise of chocolate and peanut butter that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s truly hard to resist!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: This recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults will love the delicious combination of flavors, making it a hit at breakfast or snack time.
- Make-ahead convenience: Bake a loaf ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week — it’s great toasted or fresh out of the oven!
- Moist and flavorful: With ripe bananas and creamy peanut butter, this bread stays moist and packed with flavor.
- Versatile treat: Enjoy it as breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack — it fits all occasions!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delicious bread. You probably have a lot of these on hand already!
For the Batter
- 2/3 cup smooth peanut butter
- 1/2 cup butter (softened)
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups self-rising flour
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 4 small ripe bananas (mashed [about 1 1/2 cup])
- 1 1/2- 2 cups chopped Reese’s cups
Variations
This recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to customize it according to your preferences.
- Add nuts: Toss in some walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
- Use different chocolate: Swap out Reese’s cups for your favorite chocolate candy — think M&Ms or chocolate chips!
- Make it healthier: Replace half of the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a sweeter twist without refined sugar.
- Experiment with spices: Add cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm flavor boost that complements the bananas beautifully.
How to Make Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This is an important step because it ensures your bread bakes evenly throughout. Next, prepare two loaf pans by spraying them with baking spray or greasing them with butter and flour. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier!
Step 2: Cream Together Ingredients
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract for about 2 minutes until it’s fluffy. This step is crucial because it helps incorporate air into the batter, giving your bread a light texture.
Step 3: Add Sugars
Now, add both granulated sugar and brown sugar to the mixture. Beat on medium-high speed for another 2 minutes until everything is well combined. These sugars add sweetness and contribute to that lovely moistness we all love in banana bread.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. After all four eggs are in, increase the mixer speed and beat for about 30 seconds until you see a light beige color forming. Scrape down the sides occasionally so everything blends smoothly.
Step 5: Mix in Flour and Yogurt
Lower the mixer speed again and gradually add in your self-rising flour alternating with plain Greek yogurt. Start and finish with flour; this helps maintain that fluffy texture we achieved earlier. Be careful not to overmix; just beat until fully combined.
Step 6: Fold in Bananas and Reese’s Cups
Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in your mashed bananas and chopped Reese’s cups using a spatula. This step allows those delicious chunks to remain intact while ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout your batter.
Step 7: Divide Batter Between Pans
Using a measuring cup, divide your batter between the two prepared loaf pans evenly. This helps ensure both loaves bake at the same rate.
Step 8: Bake Your Bread
Bake in your preheated oven for about 35 minutes before checking on them. If they’re browning too quickly on top, lay some foil over them gently. Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool It Down
Once baked, let your loaves cool in their pans for about 15 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This allows them to set properly without falling apart.
Enjoy every slice of this delectable Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread! Whether you share it or keep it all to yourself is entirely up to you—though I wouldn’t blame you if you decided to savor every last crumb!
Pro Tips for Making Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread
Baking can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure your Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread turns out perfectly every time!
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Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas that are heavily speckled or even mostly brown for the best results.
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Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense bread. Once you incorporate the dry ingredients, mix just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.
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Experiment with different nut butters: While peanut butter is delicious, you can also try almond or cashew butter for a unique twist. Each will lend its own flavor profile to the bread.
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Check doneness carefully: Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking your bread a few minutes before the recommended bake time. A toothpick should come out clean when it’s done!
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Cool completely before slicing: Allowing the bread to cool completely ensures that it sets properly. This helps maintain its structure and makes for cleaner slices.
How to Serve Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread
Serving your delicious Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread can be as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas to elevate your presentation.
Garnishes
- Chopped nuts: Sprinkling some chopped peanuts or walnuts on top adds an appealing crunch and enhances the nutty flavor.
- Chocolate drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate over each slice makes it look extra indulgent and visually appealing.
- Fresh banana slices: Adding a few fresh banana slices on top not only looks inviting but also complements the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
- Greek yogurt: A dollop of plain or flavored Greek yogurt on the side adds creaminess and tang, balancing the sweetness of the bread.
- Fresh berries: Serving alongside a mix of fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries adds a refreshing contrast in flavor and color.
- Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs wonderfully with this banana bread, making it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
- Ice cream: For a decadent dessert option, serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of warm bread and cold ice cream is simply heavenly!
Now that you’re equipped with these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to enjoy your homemade Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread! Happy baking!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance, store it properly, and enjoy its delightful flavors throughout the week.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the banana bread to cool completely before storing.
- Wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place wrapped loaves in an airtight container to prevent moisture loss.
- Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing
- Once cooled, wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil.
- Label the packages with the date and type of bread for easy identification.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To thaw, place the wrapped loaf in the refrigerator overnight.
Reheating
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove any wrapping from the loaf and place it on a baking sheet.
- Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Alternatively, you can slice a piece and microwave it for 15-30 seconds.
FAQs
Here are some common questions that may arise while making this delicious recipe!
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth in Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add some delightful texture to your banana bread. Just keep in mind that it may slightly change the overall consistency.
How do I ensure my Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread stays moist?
To keep your bread moist, make sure not to overmix once you add the flour and yogurt. Additionally, using ripe bananas adds natural moisture. Storing it properly also helps maintain its softness.
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in this recipe?
You can substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream or even applesauce if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. Both alternatives will provide moisture without compromising flavor.
Can I make mini loaves of Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread?
Yes! You can use mini loaf pans instead of standard ones. Just reduce the baking time, checking for doneness earlier—about 20-25 minutes should suffice.
Final Thoughts
This Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is truly special—it’s a sweet treat that combines comforting flavors with a touch of indulgence. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! It’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or just a cozy snack. Don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family; everyone will love it! Happy baking!
Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of homemade Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread, a perfect blend of sweet bananas and creamy peanut butter that elevates any meal. This recipe has been cherished by families for years, offering a comforting treat ideal for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. The addition of chopped chocolate candies creates a wonderful surprise in every bite, making it a hit among both kids and adults. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh out of the oven or toasted with a pat of butter, this moist banana bread is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup smooth peanut butter
- 1/2 cup softened butter
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups self-rising flour
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 4 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1 1/2 – 2 cups chopped chocolate candies
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare two loaf pans.
- Cream together peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract until fluffy.
- Add granulated and brown sugars; mix until well combined.
- Incorporate eggs one at a time, beating until light and smooth.
- Gradually mix in self-rising flour alternating with Greek yogurt.
- Fold in mashed bananas and chopped chocolate candies gently.
- Divide the batter between prepared loaf pans and bake for about 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 70g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
