Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Banana bread is a timeless favorite in home kitchens across the world, but what if you could elevate it to something decadent, nutty, and chocolatey all at once? That’s exactly what happens with Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread. By adding creamy peanut butter into the batter and folding in mini peanut butter cups, this bread transforms from a humble snack into a show-stopping treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

Moist, dense, and utterly satisfying, this quick bread is ideal for anyone who loves the classic peanut butter and chocolate combo. Whether you’re baking for family, a gathering, or just for yourself, this recipe promises rich flavor, wonderful texture, and a nostalgic indulgence that will disappear in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

There are countless banana bread recipes out there, but this one stands out for several reasons:

• Decadent Peanut Butter Flavor: Creamy peanut butter in the batter infuses every bite with nutty richness.
• Chocolate Surprise: Mini peanut butter cups throughout the bread melt slightly, giving pockets of chocolatey bliss.
• Moist, Tender Crumb: Overripe bananas combined with oil and eggs create a soft, luscious texture.
• Simple, Foolproof Method: Even beginner bakers can achieve perfect results without fuss.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy warm with a swipe of butter, or slice cold for an afternoon snack.
• Perfect for Gifting or Freezing: Wrap a loaf for a neighbor or freeze slices for quick treats later.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s a detailed look at the ingredients, organized for clarity. This recipe makes 1 loaf, cut into approximately 10 servings.

Dry Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Wet Ingredients

• 3 very ripe medium bananas, mashed
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar

Add-Ins

• 8 ounces miniature peanut butter cups, or chopped peanut butter cups

Tools & Equipment Needed

To bake this banana bread perfectly, you’ll need:

• 9 x 5-inch loaf pan
• Parchment paper
• Nonstick cooking spray
• Two large mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Wire cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to create a loaf of Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread that’s moist, flavorful, and filled with chocolate-peanut butter goodness.

1. Preheat your oven and prepare the pan
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal, and coat lightly with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Mix the dry ingredients
   In a large bowl, whisk together:
   • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
   • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
   • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
   • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
   Set this bowl aside. Properly combining the leavening agents ensures an even rise.
3. Combine the wet ingredients
   In another large bowl, mash the bananas thoroughly and mix with:
   • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
   • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
   • 2 eggs
   • 1 cup granulated sugar
   Whisk until smooth and evenly combined. The banana-peanut butter mixture will be thick but creamy, giving the bread its tender texture.
4. Incorporate dry into wet
   Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently stir until just combined. The batter should remain slightly lumpy. Overmixing can result in a tougher bread.
5. Fold in the peanut butter cups
   Gently fold in 8 ounces of miniature peanut butter cups, distributing them evenly. If using larger cups, chop them into small pieces to ensure even distribution.
6. Transfer to pan and bake
   Spread the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top slightly. Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The top should be golden brown and set.
7. Cool the bread
   Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then use the parchment overhang to transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slicing while warm may cause the bread to crumble.

Tips & Variations

• Banana Ripeness Matters: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
• Peanut Butter Substitutions: Natural peanut butter works but may make the batter slightly denser.
• Chocolate Variations: Use dark chocolate peanut butter cups for a richer flavor, or add chocolate chips alongside the cups.
• Nut-Free Option: Substitute sunbutter or soy nut butter and omit peanut butter cups if there’s a peanut allergy.
• Extra Moisture: Add 1/4 cup plain yogurt or sour cream for a slightly moister loaf.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

• Taste: Sweet, nutty, with pockets of chocolatey peanut butter.
• Texture: Dense yet soft, with melt-in-your-mouth peanut butter cup bites.
• Best Served With: Butter, peanut butter spread, or cream cheese for an indulgent twist.

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 14 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Protein: 8 g

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian-friendly; contains peanuts, eggs, wheat, and may contain dairy and soy from peanut butter cups.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prep Ahead: Mash bananas and measure dry ingredients in advance. Combine and bake when ready.
• Storage: Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Refrigerate for up to a week.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before slicing.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
   Yes, though the flavor will differ, and the bread may be slightly less rich.
2. Why is my bread dense?
   Dense bread often results from overmixing the batter or under-ripe bananas. Gently fold ingredients until just combined.
3. Can I use large peanut butter cups instead of mini ones?
   Absolutely, but chop them into smaller pieces for even distribution.
4. How can I make the bread extra moist?
   Adding a few tablespoons of yogurt or sour cream can enhance moisture without altering flavor.
5. How to prevent the peanut butter cups from sinking?
   Toss the peanut butter cups in a teaspoon of flour before folding them in; this helps them suspend throughout the batter.

Cooking Timeline at a Glance

Step	Time
Prep	15 minutes
Baking	55–60 minutes
Cooling	10 minutes in pan + 10 minutes on rack
Total	75 minutes

Serving Suggestions

• Slice thick for breakfast or brunch, paired with coffee or milk.
• Serve slightly warm with a drizzle of peanut butter or chocolate sauce for dessert.
• Cut into smaller slices for snack boxes, lunchboxes, or sharing with friends.

Recipe Variations

1. Chocolate Banana Bread: Add 1/2 cup cocoa powder to the dry ingredients and fold in chocolate chips.
2. Banana Nut Bread: Replace peanut butter cups with chopped walnuts or pecans for a classic nutty version.
3. Swirled Peanut Butter Bread: Drizzle extra peanut butter over the top before baking for a decorative swirl.
4. Vegan Version: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter or oil.

Ingredient Spotlight

Bananas

• Selection: Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and flavor.
• Storage: Store unripe bananas at room temperature until fully ripe. Overripe bananas can be frozen and mashed when needed.

Peanut Butter Cups

• Selection: Miniature cups distribute more evenly. Chop larger cups for incorporation.
• Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place until baking. Avoid using old or melted candy.

Pro Baking Tips

• Always use overripe bananas; under-ripe bananas yield less flavor.
• Gently fold peanut butter cups to avoid breaking them up too much.
• Don’t overmix after adding dry ingredients; lumpy batter is perfect.
• Use parchment paper with overhang for effortless removal of the loaf.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in airtight container for up to a week.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic, then aluminum foil. Freeze up to 3 months. Do not refreeze after thawing.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320
Protein	8 g
Carbohydrates	45 g
Total Fat	14 g
Saturated Fat	3 g
Fiber	2 g

Expanded Conclusion

Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is the ultimate mash-up of comfort and indulgence. Its moist, tender crumb, sweet banana flavor, and pockets of peanut butter cup goodness make it irresistible for all ages. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an anytime snack, this recipe brings a little joy to every bite.

Whether you’re gifting a loaf to a friend, serving it at brunch, or enjoying a quiet moment with coffee, this bread is guaranteed to impress. Don’t forget to experiment with variations, store leftovers properly, and share this delicious creation with those you love. Once you try this one, it will quickly become a staple in your home baking rotation.

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