Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on a classic favorite, this Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is just the treat you need! It’s a recipe that holds a special place in my heart and always brings a smile to my face. Imagine the aroma of bananas and peanut butter filling your kitchen – it’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a busy weeknight dessert or whipping up something special for family gatherings, this bread has you covered.

The combination of creamy peanut butter and chocolatey Reese’s cups makes every slice an absolute joy. Plus, it’s super easy to make, so you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe time and time again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious bread in the oven before you know it!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet, nutty flavors of this banana bread.
• Perfect for sharing: Bake two loaves and share one with friends or neighbors – they’ll be asking for the recipe!
• Make-ahead convenience: This bread stays fresh for days, making it great for breakfasts or snacks throughout the week.
• Decadent flavor: The rich taste of peanut butter combined with chocolatey pieces takes banana bread to a whole new level!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make our Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread. You probably have most of these items in your pantry already!

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! 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.
• Use different mix-ins: Swap out Reese’s cups for chocolate chips or butterscotch chips if you’re in the mood for something different.
• Try different nut butters: If you’re not a fan of peanut butter, almond or cashew butter can work beautifully too!
• Make it healthier: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf.

How to Make Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial as it prepares your oven to create that perfect environment for baking. It helps ensure that your banana bread rises beautifully and bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pans

Spray the bottom and sides of two non-stick metal loaf pans (9 x 5 OR 8 x 4-inch) with baking spray or lightly coat them with butter and flour. This will prevent your delicious bread from sticking to the pans after baking.

Step 3: Creaming Time

Using an electric mixer, cream together the smooth peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla for about 2 minutes until fluffy. This process adds air into the batter, making your banana bread light and airy.

Step 4: Sweeten Up

Next, add both granulated sugar and brown sugar into the mixture. Beat on medium-high speed for another 2 minutes until everything is fully combined. The sugars add sweetness while also contributing moisture to our loaf.

Step 5: Add Eggs One at a Time

Now it’s time to add those eggs! Do this one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Increase the mixer speed once all eggs are added and beat until you achieve a light beige color. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl periodically; we want every bit well mixed!

Step 6: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Lower the mixer speed again as you gradually add in your self-rising flour alternately with Greek yogurt. Start and end with flour. Mixing this way ensures everything blends smoothly without overworking that batter – we want tender banana bread!

Step 7: Fold in Bananas & Reese’s Cups

Gently fold in the mashed bananas along with those delightful chopped Reese’s cups by hand until fully incorporated. This is where that amazing flavor combination comes together!

Step 8: Divide & Pour Batter

Using a measuring cup, carefully divide your batter evenly between the two prepared pans. This will help ensure they bake evenly.

Step 9: Baking Magic

Bake in your preheated oven for about 35 minutes before checking on them. If they look like they’re browning too quickly, lay some foil on top loosely. Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 10: Cool Down Time

Once baked, let them cool in their pans for about 15 minutes before transferring them onto a cooling rack. Allowing them to cool completely enhances their flavor and texture – plus you won’t burn your fingers when you take that first slice!

Enjoy every bite of this scrumptious Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread! It’s sure to become a beloved favorite in your home just like it has in mine!

Pro Tips for Making Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Baking is all about experimenting, and with these tips, you’ll ensure your Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread turns out perfectly every time!

• Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots as they have the best flavor for baking.

• Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps everything blend together more smoothly, leading to a lighter texture.

• Don’t overmix: Once you add the flour to the batter, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bread, so a gentle hand is key to fluffy goodness.

• Customize mix-ins: Feel free to swap out or add other treats like chocolate chips or chopped nuts if you’re in the mood for something different. Just remember to keep an eye on the total volume of mix-ins so your batter doesn’t get too thick.

• Store properly: To keep your banana bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze slices individually and thaw as needed.

How to Serve Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

This delicious bread is not only perfect on its own but also pairs beautifully with various garnishes and side dishes that enhance its rich flavors.

Garnishes

• Chocolate drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate over the top adds an elegant touch and extra sweetness.
• Chopped peanuts: Sprinkle a few chopped peanuts on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the peanut butter.
• Whipped cream: Serve a dollop of whipped cream alongside each slice for a creamy contrast that balances the richness of the bread.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A light fruit salad made with berries, apples, or citrus provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet bread.
• Yogurt parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a satisfying side that adds protein and enhances breakfast vibes.
• Coffee or tea: Pairing this banana bread with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea makes for a delightful afternoon treat or cozy start to your day.
• Ice cream: For a decadent dessert option, serve warm slices topped with your favorite ice cream flavor – chocolate or vanilla work beautifully!

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create an unforgettable experience around your Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy its deliciousness throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, wrap it in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow the banana bread to cool completely before freezing.
• Slice the loaves into individual pieces or freeze them whole.
• Wrap each piece or loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a zip-top freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat slices, place them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
• If reheating a whole loaf, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe!

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

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add an enjoyable texture to your bread while still keeping all that delicious peanut flavor.

How do I ensure my Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread stays moist?

Make sure your bananas are very ripe; they not only add natural sweetness but also moisture. Also, avoid overmixing once you add the flour to keep it tender!

Can I substitute Greek yogurt in Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread?

Yes! You can use applesauce or a dairy-free yogurt alternative if you’re looking for a substitute. This will help maintain moisture without affecting the taste too much.

What can I add to enhance my Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread?

Consider adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor. These additions can make your bread even more delightful!

Final Thoughts

This Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is truly special—it’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in loaf form! I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, this sweet creation is sure to brighten everyone’s day. Happy baking!