There’s something truly comforting about the smell of freshly baked banana bread wafting through the house, isn’t there? Now, imagine that warm, homey aroma infused with the rich essence of Reese’s Peanut Butter and the irresistible sweetness of ripe bananas. That’s what you’ll experience with this Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread—a delightful twist on a classic favorite! Not only is it incredibly easy to throw together, making it perfect for busy mornings or unexpected guests, but it also combines the nostalgic fun of candy with wholesome ingredients for a treat you won’t be able to resist. Whether you enjoy it warm, straight from the oven, or chilled as a delightful snack later on, this recipe promises pure joy. So, are you ready to bake something unforgettable?
Why will you adore this banana bread?
Indulgent, the fusion of creamy peanut butter and sweet bananas creates a comforting loaf that feels like dessert. Quick and easy, you’ll have it in the oven in no time, perfect for busy mornings. Versatile, enjoy it warm with a pat of butter or as a chilled snack. If you’re a fan of more traditional flavors, don’t miss out on our Banana Bread Chocolate or Cheese Banana Bread recipes for a unique twist. Crowd-pleaser, this delightful treat will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread Ingredients
Indulge in this delightful twist on a classic recipe!
For the Batter
- Smooth Peanut Butter – Provides rich flavor and moisture; substitute with almond butter for a nut-free option.
- Butter (Softened) – Adds richness and helps in leavening; can be replaced with coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor; use almond extract for a unique twist.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the bread; can be partially replaced with honey or maple syrup for a healthier choice.
- Light Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a caramel essence; can be substituted with all granulated sugar, though this may reduce moisture.
- Large Eggs – Provides structure; for an egg-free version, replace with flaxseed meal mixed with water.
- Self-Rising Flour – This is crucial for leavening; for a DIY alternative, mix all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt.
- Plain Greek Yogurt – Contributes to moisture and richness; swap with sour cream or non-dairy yogurt if desired.
- Ripe Bananas (Mashed) – The heart of the recipe adding natural sweetness; choose very ripe bananas for the best flavor.
- Chopped Reese’s Cups – Brings bursts of chocolate and peanut butter; chocolate chips can be substituted for a different touch.
For Storage
- Airtight Container – Store at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness; this delicious Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Pans
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, take two loaf pans and generously grease them with butter or a non-stick spray to prevent sticking. This preparation will ensure your Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread releases easily once baked, setting you up for a smooth baking experience.
Step 2: Cream the Peanut Butter and Butter
In a large mixing bowl, combine your smooth peanut butter, softened butter, and pure vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed for about 2 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. This creaming process is crucial as it incorporates air, which helps your banana bread rise beautifully while adding moisture.
Step 3: Add the Sugars
Gradually add the granulated sugar and light brown sugar to the creamy mixture. Continue to beat for an additional 2 minutes until the sugars are completely combined and the mixture appears smooth and cohesive. The sweetness from the sugars will balance perfectly with the richness of the peanut butter in your Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread.
Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs
Next, add the large eggs, one at a time, to the mixing bowl. After adding each egg, mix thoroughly to ensure they are well combined before adding the next. This step helps create a base that is rich in flavor and provides the necessary structure to your banana bread.
Step 5: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix in the self-rising flour along with the plain Greek yogurt, starting and ending with the flour. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold everything together gently, ensuring you don’t overmix. The batter should be smooth but slightly lumpy due to the bananas, creating the perfect texture for your Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread.
Step 6: Fold in Bananas and Reese’s Cups
Carefully fold in the mashed ripe bananas and chopped Reese’s cups into the batter. Use a gentle motion to combine them, ensuring the bananas are fully incorporated without overworking the batter. You’ll start to see the delicious chunks of chocolate and peanut butter interspersed throughout—this is what makes the bread truly special!
Step 7: Divide the Batter
Evenly divide the banana bread batter between the two prepared loaf pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops, which will help them bake evenly. This step is essential for ensuring both loaves bake to a perfect golden brown and maintain an appealing shape once cooled.
Step 8: Bake the Banana Bread
Place the loaf pans in your preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes. After this time, check for browning; the tops should be golden. If they look too brown, cover them loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread from the oven and let it cool in the pans for about 15 minutes. After this cooling time, carefully transfer the loaves to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to slice without crumbling.
What to Serve with Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread
Indulging in the sweet, warm flavors of this banana bread opens the door to a delightful meal experience.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Perfectly whipped, these add a comforting touch that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the banana bread.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of vibrant, juicy fruits provides a refreshing contrast and vibrant colors that brighten up your plate.
- Rich Chocolate Ice Cream: The cold, creamy texture harmonizes with the warm banana bread, creating a heavenly dessert moment.
- Classic Coffee: A cup of rich, hot coffee brings out the flavors of peanut butter and chocolate, making each bite even more enjoyable.
- Herbed Yogurt Dip: The tangy notes of yogurt will complement the sweetness, elevating the flavors and adding a refreshing zing.
- Vanilla Chia Pudding: Creamy and nutritious, this can be served alongside for a delightful brunch or snack, striking a perfect balance.
- Maple Glazed Chicken: Juicy chicken with a hint of sweetness bridges the flavors of the meal, creating a harmonious dining experience.
- Nutty Granola Bars: For a quick on-the-go option, these bars, with their crunch, complement the soft banana bread while keeping things wholesome.
Make Ahead Options
These Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep the dry ingredients (self-rising flour, sugars, and chocolate chunks) up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, mash your ripe bananas and combine them with the Greek yogurt up to 24 hours before baking; simply refrigerate in a covered bowl to prevent browning. When you’re ready to bake, mix the prepped ingredients with the wet ones, then pour the batter into the prepared pans and follow the baking instructions as usual for a delightfully fresh loaf. With this strategy, you’ll have delicious banana bread ready to enjoy with minimal last-minute effort!
Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delicious bread and make it uniquely yours!
- Nut-Free: Swap peanut butter for almond butter or sunbutter for a nut-free alternative that’s just as creamy and satisfying.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil and non-dairy yogurt for a delightful, creamy texture without any dairy.
- Lower Sugar: Substitute some of the granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup, keeping the sweetness but lightening the load.
- Chocolate Twist: Try adding cocoa powder to your batter for a rich chocolate version, or mix in chocolate chips for added indulgence.
- Fruit Fusion: Toss in some blueberries or chopped strawberries for a fruity flair, creating a delightful contrast with the peanut butter.
- Crunchy Delight: Fold in some chopped nuts or seeds to add texture and crunch, elevating every bite.
- Spicy Kick: Adding a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon can introduce a subtle heat and warmth, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Candy Swap: For fun variations, swap out Reese’s cups with other chocolate bars or candy, like Snickers or Milky Ways, for a surprise in each slice.
Experimenting with these ideas can help you make the recipe entirely your own, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you might enjoy our Peanut Butter Greek or Peanut Butter Oat recipes for more delightful twists!
Expert Tips for Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread
- Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better blending; this will help achieve a smooth batter.
- Self-Rising Flour: For optimal rise and texture, stick to self-rising flour. If you need to substitute with all-purpose, add baking powder and salt accordingly.
- Watch Your Time: Ovens can vary significantly; keep a close eye on baking time. Check for doneness with a toothpick to prevent overbaking.
- Ripe Bananas: Use very ripe bananas for the best sweetness and moisture in your Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread. The darker, the better!
- Cooling Period: Allow the bread to cool in the pans before transferring it to a rack. This helps maintain its structure and prevents crumbling when slicing.
How to Store and Freeze Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread
Room Temperature: Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. This keeps it fresh and ready to enjoy with minimal fuss.
Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the bread in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Chilling will enhance the flavors and make for a delightful snack anytime.
Freezer: You can freeze the Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or heat in the microwave for a few seconds until warm for that fresh-baked experience.
Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when choosing bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting bananas, make sure to choose ones with a lot of brown spots, indicating they’re very ripe. They should feel soft to the touch, as this will ensure your Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is moist and sweet. Avoid any that are overly green or have dark spots all over since they won’t provide the desired sweetness and flavor.
How long will my Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread stay fresh?
For optimal freshness, store your banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you prefer to keep it even longer, refrigerate it, and it can last up to a week. Remember that chilling will enhance the flavors, making it a delightful treat anytime!
Can I freeze the banana bread? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread, first, let it cool completely. Then wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to label it with the date! It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it at room temperature or reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy that fresh-baked goodness.
What should I do if my banana bread is too dense?
Very! If you find your bread is denser than expected, it might be due to overmixing the batter or using under-ripe bananas. Aim to mix the batter just until combined and ensure your bananas are ripe and soft. If using self-rising flour, double-check that it’s not expired, as this can also affect the bread’s rise.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
For sure! If you’re baking for someone with nut allergies, you can substitute smooth peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free alternative. Additionally, for dairy-free needs, replace the butter with coconut oil and use non-dairy yogurt. Always be sure to check the ingredient labels on your candy and chocolates to avoid any allergens!
Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread for Ultimate Comfort Moments
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two loaf pans with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine smooth peanut butter, softened butter, and pure vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add granulated sugar and light brown sugar, continuing to beat for an additional 2 minutes until smooth.
- Add large eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
- Gradually mix in self-rising flour and plain Greek yogurt, folding gently to avoid overmixing.
- Fold in the mashed ripe bananas and chopped Reese’s cups carefully.
- Evenly divide the batter between the two loaf pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes. Check for browning and cover with aluminum foil if necessary, baking for an additional 15-20 minutes.
- Remove from oven, let cool in pans for about 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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