If you’re a fan of Reese’s peanut butter cups, this Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread will become your new favorite indulgence. This recipe takes the comforting, moist texture of banana bread and elevates it with rich, creamy peanut butter and chunks of Reese’s candy for a decadent treat. It’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even a snack with a cup of coffee. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or a special occasion, this banana bread will wow anyone lucky enough to try it.
Ingredients
- 3 medium overripe bananas, mashed
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup Reese’s peanut butter chips
- ½ cup chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups (about 8 mini cups)
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and whisk again until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
Step 4: Add the Reese’s Goodness
Fold in the Reese’s peanut butter chips and chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups until evenly distributed throughout the batter. Reserve a handful of the peanut butter cups for topping if desired.
Step 5: Pour and Decorate
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the reserved peanut butter cups on top for a decorative touch and extra flavor.
Step 6: Bake the Banana Bread
Bake in the preheated oven for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent the loaf with aluminum foil halfway through baking.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Variations
- Dark Chocolate Lovers: Replace the Reese’s peanut butter chips with dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
- Nut-Free Option: Swap the peanut butter and Reese’s candies for sunflower seed butter and nut-free chocolate chips for an allergy-friendly version.
- Crunchy Texture: Add ½ cup of chopped peanuts or pecans for a delightful crunch in every bite.
- Mini Loaves: Divide the batter into mini loaf pans or muffin tins for individual portions. Adjust the baking time to 20–25 minutes for muffins and 30–35 minutes for mini loaves.
Cooking Notes
- Use overripe bananas with plenty of brown spots for the sweetest, most flavorful banana bread.
- Room-temperature eggs ensure a smoother batter and better texture.
- Avoid overmixing the batter to maintain a light and tender crumb.
Serving Suggestions
Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is delicious on its own, but you can take it to the next level by serving it with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of chocolate syrup, or a smear of extra peanut butter. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or a tall glass of milk for a comforting treat. It’s also a crowd-pleaser for brunches, potlucks, and bake sales.
Tips
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
- To keep the bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- For longer storage, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
Calories: Approximately 320 per slice (based on 12 slices)
Protein: 6g
Sodium: 200mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use natural peanut butter?
A: Yes, natural peanut butter works well, but ensure it’s well-stirred to avoid oily or dry patches in the batter.
Q: How can I make this recipe healthier?
A: Swap half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour, reduce the sugar by a quarter, and use Greek yogurt instead of butter for a lighter version.
Q: Can I use frozen bananas?
A: Absolutely! Just thaw and drain any excess liquid from the bananas before mashing and using them in the recipe.
Q: Can I make this banana bread vegan?
A: Yes! Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg), use dairy-free butter or coconut oil, and opt for vegan chocolate chips.
Conclusion
Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is a delightful mash-up of classic banana bread and Reese’s candy. This indulgent recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while enjoying the nostalgic flavors of peanut butter and chocolate. With its moist texture, bursts of Reese’s candies, and the rich aroma of bananas and peanut butter, this banana bread is sure to be a hit. Whether you serve it warm from the oven or enjoy a slice as a quick snack, Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread will quickly become a favorite recipe in your kitchen. Happy baking!