A Decadent Twist on Classic Banana Bread You’ll Crave Again and Again
If you’ve been looking for the ultimate banana bread recipe that’s rich, moist, and loaded with peanut butter and chocolate flavor, you’re in the right place. This Peanut Butter & Reese’s Banana Bread combines the comforting goodness of classic banana bread with the irresistible decadence of peanut butter and chopped Reese’s candies. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just to treat yourself, this recipe is a sweet tooth’s dream come true.
Ready to Bake Something Unforgettable?
Don’t wait for your bananas to get browner—this recipe is the perfect excuse to whip up a loaf today. Grab your whisk and your favorite mixing bowl, and let’s turn simple pantry staples into a moist, chocolate-studded masterpiece that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Tools Needed, Servings & Time
Tools Needed:
- 2 large mixing bowls
- Whisk or hand mixer
- Spatula
- Standard loaf pan (9×5 inches)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Cooling rack
Serves: 8–10 slices
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50–60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped Reese’s (regular or mini peanut butter cups)
Optional Topping:
- Additional chopped Reese’s or chocolate chips for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Loaf Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Add in the peanut butter, melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is completely smooth and well-combined.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures the baking soda is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 4: Blend the Batter
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix—this helps keep your banana bread soft and tender.
Step 5: Fold in the Reese’s
Gently fold the chopped Reese’s into the batter. Make sure they’re evenly distributed to get chocolatey peanut butter goodness in every bite.
Step 6: Add the Batter to the Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. If desired, sprinkle more chopped Reese’s or chocolate chips on top for an extra indulgent finish.
Step 7: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Begin checking at the 50-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. A little melted chocolate is fine!
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This helps it firm up and slice more cleanly.
Tips for Banana Bread Success
- Use very ripe bananas: The darker and spottier, the better. Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture.
- Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature to help them blend smoothly into the batter.
- Avoid overmixing: Stir until the flour just disappears. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough loaf.
- Customize your add-ins: Swap Reese’s for chocolate chunks, peanut butter chips, or even chopped nuts if preferred.
- Don’t skip the cooling step: Letting the bread cool properly prevents it from falling apart when slicing.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of melted peanut butter.
- Pair with coffee for a sweet breakfast or snack.
- Turn it into dessert by serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
How to Store:
- Room Temperature: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week. Bring to room temperature before serving.
- Freezer: Freeze individual slices or the whole loaf (wrapped well) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or microwave slices for 30 seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use natural peanut butter instead of regular?
Yes, but make sure it’s well-stirred and not too oily or runny. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
2. What if I don’t have Reese’s?
No problem! You can substitute with chocolate chips, chopped peanut butter cups of another brand, or swirl in some peanut butter before baking.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your other ingredients (like Reese’s) are also labeled gluten-free.
4. Is it possible to make muffins instead of a loaf?
Absolutely! Divide the batter into a muffin tin lined with paper liners and bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.
5. Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, you can cut back the brown or granulated sugar slightly. The bananas and Reese’s still provide plenty of sweetness.
Conclusion
This Peanut Butter & Reese’s Banana Bread is the ultimate fusion of comfort and indulgence. It’s a fantastic way to use overripe bananas and bring something exciting to your baking routine. From the moist, rich banana base to the sweet peanut butter swirl and candy-filled center, every bite feels like a warm hug.
Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just treating yourself on a cozy afternoon, this banana bread is sure to impress. So the next time you find yourself with a bunch of ripe bananas, you know exactly what to do—bake this unforgettable loaf and enjoy the rave reviews.
