Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on a classic favorite, you’ve found it with this delicious Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread! This recipe brings together the rich flavors of peanut butter, ripe bananas, and scrumptious Reese’s cups, making it a treat that everyone will love. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick dessert or as a sweet addition to family gatherings. Trust me; once you try this bread, it will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Whether enjoyed warm with butter or as an after-school snack, this Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is sure to bring smiles all around. Let’s dive into why you’ll adore this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful bread in no time!
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will be reaching for seconds, thanks to the irresistible combo of banana and chocolate.
• Make Ahead: This bread keeps well, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying throughout the week.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your preferences—for instance, adding nuts or swapping out the chocolate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that this recipe calls for simple and wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need for your 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 parts about baking is how flexible recipes can be! Here are some fun variations to consider when making your Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread:

• Add Nuts: For extra crunch, toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans.
• Try Dark Chocolate: Swap out Reese’s cups for dark chocolate chips for a rich flavor twist.
• Make It Vegan: Use flax eggs and dairy-free butter for a plant-based version everyone can enjoy.
• Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spiced flavor.

How to Make Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your bread bakes evenly from the moment it goes in! While that’s happening, spray two non-stick metal loaf pans with baking spray or grease them with butter and flour.

Step 2: Cream the Butters

In a mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla using an electric mixer. Beat this mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes until it becomes fluffy. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into your batter, leading to a lighter texture in the finished bread.

Step 3: Add Sugars

Next, add both granulated sugar and brown sugar to the bowl. Beat on medium-high speed for another 2 minutes until everything is well combined. The sugars will add sweetness and contribute to that gorgeous golden color when baked.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs

Now it’s time to mix in the eggs—one at a time! Make sure each egg is fully blended before adding the next one. Once all four eggs are mixed in, increase your mixer speed for about 30 seconds until the batter turns light beige. Don’t forget to scrape down those sides of the bowl!

Step 5: Mix in Flour and Yogurt

Lower your mixer speed again and gradually add in the self-rising flour alternately with Greek yogurt. Start and end with flour—this helps keep everything nice and balanced. Be careful not to overmix; just beat until everything is combined!

Step 6: Fold in Bananas and Reese’s Cups

Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in those mashed bananas and chopped Reese’s cups by hand until they are fully incorporated into the batter. This combination brings amazing flavor!

Step 7: Divide Batter into Pans

Use a measuring cup to divide your delicious batter evenly between both prepared loaf pans.

Step 8 & 9: Bake Until Perfectly Browned

Place your pans in the oven and bake for about 35 minutes. Check if they are browning too fast by lightly covering them with foil if necessary. Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 10: Cool Down

Let your loaves cool in their pans for about 15 minutes before carefully removing them from the pans onto a cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely before slicing into that moist goodness!

And there you have it—your very own Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Baking this delicious Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is a joy, and with a few simple tips, you can make it even better!

• Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots for maximum sweetness.

• Don’t overmix the batter: When combining the ingredients, mix just until combined to ensure a tender bread. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.

• Check for doneness with a toothpick: Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s done! This prevents overbaking and keeps the bread moist.

• Cool before slicing: Allowing the bread to cool in the pan for 15 minutes helps it set properly. This makes slicing easier and prevents it from falling apart.

• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to customize your banana bread! Consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.

How to Serve Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Serving your freshly baked Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread can be just as fun as making it! Whether it’s for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, here are some delightful ideas to enhance your presentation.

Garnishes

• Chopped peanuts: Sprinkle some chopped peanuts on top for an extra crunch that complements the peanut butter flavor beautifully.
• Chocolate drizzle: A light drizzle of melted chocolate over each slice adds an indulgent touch and makes it look irresistible.
• Whipped cream: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for a creamy contrast that balances out the flavors wonderfully.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich banana bread, enhancing your breakfast or dessert experience.
• Yogurt parfait: Pair slices with yogurt layered with granola and fresh berries for a nutritious and satisfying side dish that’s great any time of day.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea complements the sweet flavors perfectly while providing a cozy atmosphere during brunch or snack time.
• Nut butter spread: For those who want an extra kick of flavor, serve alongside additional peanut butter or other nut butters spread on top for added richness.

With these serving suggestions, your Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread will not only taste amazing but also look fantastic on any table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and preserve this delightful treat!

Storing Leftovers

• Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep it in the refrigerator where it can last up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• To reheat individual slices, pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• For larger servings, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

If you have any questions about making this delicious bread, you’re in the right place!

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth for Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture and flavor to your banana bread. Just keep in mind that it may alter the smoothness of the batter slightly.

How do I know when my Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is done baking?

The best way to check is by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your banana bread is perfectly baked!

Can I substitute other nut butters in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with almond butter or cashew butter if you prefer. The flavor will change slightly but will still be delicious!

What can I serve with Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread?

This banana bread pairs wonderfully with a spread of cream cheese or even more peanut butter. Enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or snack.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread as much as I do! It’s such a special recipe that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, this bread is sure to bring smiles all around. Happy baking, and remember – every slice is a delicious moment waiting to happen!