Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

If you’re looking for a sweet, indulgent treat that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee or makes a delightful after-school snack, then you’ve got to try this Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread! This recipe is one of my all-time favorites, and I’m excited to share it with you. Imagine soft, moist bread infused with rich peanut butter and bursting with chunks of chocolatey Reese’s cups. It’s comfort food at its finest!

This delightful banana bread is not just about the taste; it’s versatile too! Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy family gathering or simply treating yourself on a busy weeknight, this recipe fits every occasion. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious banana bread ready in no time.
• Family-approved: The combination of peanut butter and chocolate will win over kids and adults alike!
• Perfect for sharing: Bake a loaf for friends or neighbors, and watch their faces light up with joy.
• Make-ahead friendly: This banana bread stays fresh for days, making it perfect for meal prep or last-minute treats!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You probably have most of these in your pantry already. Each ingredient plays a special role in creating that rich flavor and tender texture we love in Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread.

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

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Make it chocolatey: Substitute half of the self-rising flour with cocoa powder for a chocolate-peanut butter experience.
• Go banana-less: If you’re not a fan of bananas, replace them with applesauce for moisture and sweetness.
• Try different mix-ins: Experiment with other candies like chocolate chips or butterscotch chips to switch things up!

How to Make Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your banana bread bakes evenly and rises beautifully. While the oven warms up, prepare your loaf pans by spraying them with baking spray or greasing them with butter and flour.

Step 2: Cream the Butters

In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract. Beat them together for about two minutes until fluffy. This step adds air into the mixture, which helps create a light texture in your finished bread.

Step 3: Add Sugars

Next, add the granulated sugar and brown sugar. Beat on medium-high speed for another two minutes until everything is well combined. The sugars will help caramelize while baking, giving your bread that lovely golden color.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs

Now it’s time to add the eggs—one at a time. After adding each egg, mix well before proceeding to the next. Increase the mixer speed after all eggs are added and beat for about thirty seconds until you achieve a light beige color. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl; we want everything mixed together perfectly!

Step 5: Mix in Flour and Yogurt

Lower the mixer speed again as you gradually add in the self-rising flour alternately with Greek yogurt. Start and end with flour—it helps keep everything balanced. Mix just until combined; over-mixing can lead to dense bread.

Step 6: Fold in Bananas and Reese’s Cups

Using a spatula, gently fold in your mashed bananas and chopped Reese’s cups by hand until fully incorporated. This step adds natural sweetness from the bananas along with gooey chocolatey goodness from the candy.

Step 7: Divide Batter into Pans

Now it’s time to divide that delicious batter between your prepared loaf pans using a measuring cup. Try to distribute evenly so both loaves bake at the same rate.

Step 8: Bake Away!

Place both pans in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes. After that time has passed, check if they are browning too quickly—if they are, lay some foil on top loosely.

Step 9: Finish Baking

Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This final bake allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 10: Cool Down

Once out of the oven, let your loaves cool in their pans for about 15 minutes before transferring them onto a cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely—this will help set their texture perfectly!

And there you have it! A scrumptious batch of Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Making this delightful banana bread is a breeze, but a few tips can take your baking game to the next level!

• Use super ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your banana bread will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots!

• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to dense bread. Mix just until you see no more flour; the batter should be slightly lumpy.

• Let it cool completely: Allowing your banana bread to cool completely before slicing will help maintain its structure and moisture, making each slice perfect.

• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips if you want extra texture! Just make sure they complement the Reese’s cups.

• Store properly: To keep your banana bread fresh, wrap it in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

How to Serve Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

This Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is not only tasty but also visually appealing! Here are some fun ideas on how to present this delicious treat:

Garnishes

• Peanut butter drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted peanut butter on top adds an extra touch of flavor and makes your loaf look irresistible.

• Chopped peanuts: Sprinkling some chopped peanuts over the top gives a nice crunch and enhances that peanut butter flavor.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing side of seasonal fruits balances out the sweetness of the banana bread, providing a light contrast.

• Greek yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt topped with honey or granola complements your banana bread beautifully while adding creaminess.

• Coffee or tea: Pairing this bread with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances its comforting flavors, making it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this scrumptious Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread as much as I do! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here are some tips for storing and preserving your delightful loaves.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep the banana bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• For optimal freshness, place parchment paper between slices if you cut the loaf.

Freezing

• Allow the banana bread to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw the banana bread overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, reheat in a toaster oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread:

Can I use other types of nut butter instead of peanut butter?

Yes! If you prefer almond butter or cashew butter, feel free to substitute it. Just keep in mind that it will slightly alter the flavor profile.

How do I make Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread without eggs?

You can substitute each egg with a mixture of 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana mixed with 1 teaspoon baking powder. This will help maintain moisture and leavening.

What makes this Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread so special?

The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet banana creates a moist, flavorful bread that’s enhanced by chunks of Reese’s cups. It’s a delightful treat that satisfies both peanut butter lovers and chocolate enthusiasts!

Can I add other mix-ins to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate ingredients like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for added texture and flavor.

How should I serve Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread?

Enjoy it plain as a snack or breakfast item. You can also spread a little more peanut butter on top or serve with a scoop of your favorite non-dairy ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in baking this Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread as I do! It’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert—anytime you’re craving something sweet and comforting. Enjoy sharing this delicious treat with friends and family, or savor it all for yourself. Happy baking!