Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

If you’re looking for a delightful twist on a classic favorite, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread. This bread is not just a treat; it’s an experience! The combination of creamy peanut butter, sweet bananas, and those irresistible chunks of Reese’s cups creates a flavor explosion that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy weekend at home or need a special dessert for family gatherings, this recipe fits the bill beautifully.

One of the things I love about this Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is how easy it is to make! With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up this delicious loaf. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want to treat your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, this will quickly become a cherished recipe in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have your batter ready to go!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will adore the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake a couple of loaves ahead of time; they freeze wonderfully for later enjoyment.
• Deliciously Moist: The combination of ripe bananas and Greek yogurt ensures each slice is soft and moist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this bread fits perfectly into any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to make this delightful bread. Each ingredient plays a role in creating that perfect blend of flavors and textures we all love.

• 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 aspects of this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up according to what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add Nuts: For an extra crunch, toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans along with the Reese’s.
• Make it Chocolatey: Swap out half a cup of flour for cocoa powder to create a chocolate peanut butter banana bread.
• Use Almond Butter: If you prefer almond over peanut butter, go ahead and substitute it for a nutty twist.
• Add Spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile even more!

How to Make Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F. This step is important as it ensures your bread bakes evenly. While that heats up, spray the bottom and sides of two non-stick metal loaf pans with baking spray or simply butter and flour them.

Step 2: Cream Together the Base

Using an electric mixer, cream together the peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract for about two minutes until everything is fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture which helps give our bread that delightful rise.

Step 3: Add Sugars

Next, add in both the granulated sugar and brown sugar. Beat on medium-high speed for another two minutes until fully combined. The sugars contribute sweetness while also helping to create that lovely moist texture.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs

Now it’s time to add those eggs—one at a time! Mixing well after each addition is key here; it allows the eggs to incorporate smoothly into the batter. After adding all four eggs, increase your mixer speed to beat for another thirty seconds until you notice a light beige color forming. Don’t forget to scrape down those bowl sides!

Step 5: Add Flour and Yogurt

Lower your mixer speed again and gradually add in your self-rising flour, alternating with the Greek yogurt. Start and end with flour—this method helps keep everything well combined without overmixing.

Step 6: Fold in Bananas & Reese’s

Gently fold in your mashed bananas along with those chopped Reese’s cups by hand. This step preserves their shape while ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Divide Batter Between Pans

Using a measuring cup, divide your batter evenly between the two prepared pans. This ensures both loaves bake uniformly!

Step 8: Bake Until Perfectly Browned

Bake your loaves for about thirty-five minutes before checking for browning. If they look like they might brown too quickly, lay some foil on top.

Step 9: Final Baking Check

Continue baking for an additional fifteen to twenty minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This step guarantees that every bite is soft yet fully cooked through.

Step 10: Cool Down

Once baked, allow them to cool in their pans for fifteen minutes before transferring them onto a cooling rack. Letting them cool completely makes slicing easier later!

Now you’re ready to enjoy this scrumptious Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread! Serve it warm with a pat of butter or enjoy it as-is—it’s sure to become one of your new favorites!

Pro Tips for Making Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Baking the perfect loaf of Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is a delightful experience, and these pro tips will ensure your creation comes out absolutely scrumptious!

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots, as they are perfect for baking!

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter that incorporates air better, leading to a fluffier texture.

• Don’t Overmix: After adding the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bread. You want that lovely soft texture that makes each bite a joy!

• Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature, so keep an eye on your bread as it bakes. It’s better to check early with a toothpick to avoid overbaking.

• Cool Before Slicing: Let the bread cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. This allows the loaf to set and makes slicing much easier!

How to Serve Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Serving your Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread can turn a simple dish into a delightful treat! Here are some ideas to present this delicious loaf beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped Peanuts: Sprinkle some chopped peanuts on top right before serving for an extra crunch that complements the creamy peanut butter.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of melted chocolate adds an elegant touch and enhances the chocolate flavor from the Reese’s cups.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream or whipped coconut cream on top creates a light and airy contrast to the rich flavors of the bread.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the banana bread while adding freshness to your plate.
• Greek Yogurt: Serve alongside a bowl of plain Greek yogurt, which adds a creamy texture and tanginess that pairs beautifully with sweet bread.
• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea complements the flavors perfectly, making it an ideal pairing for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
• Milkshake: Blend up a quick chocolate or vanilla milkshake for a fun side that enhances the dessert-like quality of this banana bread.

Enjoy making and serving your delightful Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread! It’s perfect for gatherings, breakfast treats, or just because you deserve something delicious today.

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, enjoy it fresh, and store the leftovers for later indulgence.

Storing Leftovers

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, place in the refrigerator where it will last up to a week.
• Ensure the bread is completely cool before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing

• Wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped loaves in a freezer-safe bag or container to protect from freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• To reheat, slice off a piece and microwave for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Alternatively, you can toast slices in a toaster oven for a crispy texture.
• Enjoy with a spread of additional peanut butter or banana slices!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful bread:

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. Just keep in mind that it might slightly alter the overall smoothness of the bread.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread?

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a handful of chocolate chips alongside the chopped Reese’s cups. It complements the flavors beautifully!

What can I substitute if I don’t have self-rising flour for Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread?

You can easily make your own by combining all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt. For every cup of flour, add 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and ½ teaspoon of salt.

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

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, it’s ready! If there’s wet batter on the toothpick, give it more time in the oven.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking this scrumptious Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread! It’s such a special treat that brings together delightful flavors and memories. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or as part of your breakfast throughout the week, this recipe is sure to bring smiles. Don’t hesitate to share your experience or variations you try – happy baking!