Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

If you’re looking for a way to elevate your banana bread game, then look no further! This Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is not just any bread; it’s a delightful blend of rich peanut butter and sweet, chocolatey goodness that will have everyone coming back for seconds. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up this treat, whether you’re baking for a busy weeknight family dinner or a cozy weekend gathering with friends.

This recipe has quickly become one of my favorites because it combines two beloved flavors into one scrumptious loaf. Plus, it’s easy enough that even novice bakers can feel confident in their kitchen skills. Let’s dive into why this Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread deserves a spot in your recipe collection!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Decadent: The combination of peanut butter and Reese’s cups creates a flavor explosion that’s pure comfort food.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this treat. It’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack!
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have two loaves of banana bread ready to enjoy. Baking doesn’t get easier than this!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake a batch ahead of time and freeze one loaf for later. It’s always nice to have a sweet treat on hand!
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with bananas and Greek yogurt, this bread feels indulgent but still includes nutritious elements.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delightful Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread, you only need some simple and wholesome ingredients you might already have at home. Let’s gather what we need:

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 things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add nuts: If you’re a fan of crunch, toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.
• Use different mix-ins: Swap out Reese’s cups for chocolate chips, caramel bits, or even dried fruit if you want to change things up.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the self-rising flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend and adjust the leavening agents accordingly.
• Try different nut butters: If you’re not into peanut butter or want to try something new, almond or cashew butter can work beautifully too!

How to Make Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your bread bakes evenly right from the start. While the oven heats up, prepare your loaf pans by spraying them with baking spray or greasing them with butter and flour.

Step 2: Cream Together Peanut Butter and Butter

In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the peanut butter, softened butter, and vanilla extract for about two minutes until it’s fluffy. This step is important because it incorporates air into the mixture, which helps create a light texture in your bread.

Step 3: Mix in Sugars

Add both the granulated sugar and brown sugar to the bowl. Beat on medium-high speed for another two minutes until everything is fully combined. The sugars add sweetness and moisture while also helping to achieve that beautiful golden crust when baked.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs

Now it’s time to add the eggs—one at a time! Mix well after each addition. By doing this gradually, you ensure that each egg gets fully blended into the batter. After adding all four eggs, increase the mixer speed and beat for an additional thirty seconds until the mixture is light beige in color.

Step 5: Add Flour and Yogurt

Lower the mixer speed again and begin adding the self-rising flour alternately with Greek yogurt—starting and finishing with flour. This method helps maintain a gentle touch so that we don’t overmix the batter; overmixing can lead to dense bread.

Step 6: Fold in Bananas and Reese’s Cups

Using a spatula or wooden spoon, fold in the mashed bananas and chopped Reese’s cups until they are fully incorporated. This is where all those delicious flavors really come together!

Step 7: Divide Batter into Pans

Use a measuring cup to evenly divide the batter between your prepared loaf pans. Don’t worry if it seems thick; that’s just what we want!

Step 8: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake in your preheated oven for about thirty-five minutes before checking on them. If they’re browning too quickly on top, loosely cover them with foil. Continue baking for another fifteen to twenty minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean—this means they’re perfectly baked!

Step 9: Cool Down

Let your loaves cool in their pans for fifteen minutes before transferring them onto a cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely before slicing—you’ll want those clean cuts!

Now you’ve got two loaves of wonderfully moist Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread ready to share (or keep all to yourself)! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Making this delicious Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is a breeze with a few handy tips!

• Use overripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter they are! This will naturally sweeten your bread and provide a moist texture.
• Don’t overmix: Mixing too much can make the bread dense. Just combine the ingredients until you see no dry flour—this keeps it light and fluffy!
• Room temperature ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and yogurt helps create a smoother batter that incorporates air better, resulting in a lighter loaf.
• Check for doneness with a toothpick: Insert it into the center of the bread; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready to come out of the oven!
• Let it cool completely: Allowing the bread to cool on a rack ensures that it sets properly, making it easier to slice without falling apart.

How to Serve Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

This delightful banana bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways! Whether for breakfast, dessert, or as an afternoon snack, here are some ideas to present your creation.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped peanuts or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Chocolate drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate can give your banana bread an elegant touch and enhance its sweetness.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream on the side adds a creamy element that complements the rich flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the banana bread, making for a delightful contrast.
• Greek yogurt parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that pairs well with the sweet flavors of the bread.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea enhances your experience, balancing out the sweetness while providing warmth during breakfast or brunch.
• Ice cream: Serve slices warm with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an indulgent dessert that’s sure to impress!

Enjoy baking and sharing this Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread with family and friends—it’s bound to be a hit at any gathering!

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 or share it with friends and family.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Place the wrapped bread in a freezer-safe bag and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat, simply slice off a piece and microwave it for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Alternatively, you can toast slices in a toaster or on a skillet for a crispy outside.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this delicious treat, you’re not alone!

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

Yes, you can definitely use crunchy peanut butter! Just keep in mind that it will add some texture to your banana bread, which many people enjoy.

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

The best way to check if your banana bread is done is by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, it’s ready to be taken out of the oven!

Can I add nuts to my Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans would be a delightful addition. Just fold them into the batter along with the mashed bananas and Reese’s cups.

What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in this recipe?

If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, you can use sour cream or even unsweetened applesauce as alternatives. They will help maintain moisture in your banana bread.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread! It’s a wonderful blend of flavors that celebrates the classic pairing of peanut butter and bananas while adding that irresistible chocolatey touch. Enjoy sharing this delectable treat with loved ones or savoring it all on your own. Happy baking!