Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is a rich and indulgent twist on the classic banana bread. This moist loaf combines the creamy sweetness of bananas with the nutty flavor of peanut butter and the irresistible crunch of Reese’s peanut butter cups. Perfect as a dessert or snack, this recipe will quickly become a favorite for chocolate and peanut butter lovers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines the classic pairing of chocolate, peanut butter, and banana.
• Moist and flavorful with the perfect balance of sweetness.
• Loaded with chunks of Reese’s for added texture and indulgence.
• Great for using overripe bananas and turning them into a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ripe bananas (mashed)
• Peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
• Unsalted butter, melted
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Reese’s peanut butter cups, chopped

Directions

1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mash the Bananas: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the melted butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined.
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 mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
4. Add the Reese’s: Fold in most of the chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups, reserving a handful for topping.
5. Fill the Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the reserved Reese’s pieces over the top.
6. Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Check the bread at the 50-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
7. Cool and Serve: Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10-12 slices
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Lover’s Banana Bread: Add chocolate chips or swirl in melted chocolate for an extra chocolatey twist.
• Nutty Crunch: Mix in chopped peanuts or walnuts for added texture.
• Mini Loaves: Divide the batter into mini loaf pans for individual servings. Reduce baking time to 25-30 minutes.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute with gluten-free all-purpose flour.
• Healthier Version: Use natural peanut butter, reduce sugar, and substitute whole wheat flour for part of the all-purpose flour.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Wrap the banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Slice the bread and freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or toast lightly for a warm treat.

FAQs

1. Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but ensure it’s well-stirred as the consistency can be slightly different from regular peanut butter.

2. Do I have to use Reese’s peanut butter cups?

Not at all! Substitute with Reese’s pieces, peanut butter chips, or your favorite chocolate candy.

3. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use plant-based butter and vegan chocolate.

4. How do I keep the bread moist?

Avoid overbaking and store the bread tightly wrapped to retain its moisture.

5. Can I make this into muffins?

Absolutely! Divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.

6. What’s the best way to mash bananas?

Use a fork or potato masher to mash bananas until smooth. Overripe bananas work best for flavor and texture.

7. Can I add cocoa powder to the batter?

Yes, add 2-3 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolaty base.

8. How do I know when the bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and use two loaf pans. Adjust baking time as needed.

10. What’s the best way to serve this bread?

Serve it slightly warm with a drizzle of melted peanut butter or chocolate for extra decadence.

Conclusion

Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is a decadent, crowd-pleasing treat that combines the best of bananas, peanut butter, and chocolate. Perfect for holidays, snacks, or dessert, this recipe is easy to make and bursting with flavor. Customize it to your liking and enjoy a slice (or two) of this indulgent delight!

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