Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

If you’re looking for a deliciously indulgent twist on a classic, you’ve come to the right place! This Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is the perfect blend of sweet and nutty flavors. With ripe bananas and creamy peanut butter, it brings a comforting warmth to any kitchen. Whether you’re facing a busy weeknight or hosting a family gathering, this bread will be a hit with everyone.

What makes this recipe extra special is how easy it is to whip up. You’ll find yourself reaching for it time and time again, whether you need a quick breakfast option or a delightful dessert. Plus, who can resist the added crunch of chopped Reese’s cups? It’s truly a treat for all ages!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: With just a handful of simple steps, you’ll have warm loaves baking in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the combination of peanut butter and chocolate.
• Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep! Bake ahead and enjoy slices throughout the week.
• Delicious flavor: The rich taste of peanut butter mixed with sweet bananas creates an irresistible loaf.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients that will make this Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread shine. You probably have most of these in your kitchen 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 experiment and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add nuts: Toss in some walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Use other spreads: Try almond or cashew butter instead of peanut butter for a different flavor profile.
• Swap in whole wheat flour: For a healthier twist, use whole wheat flour in place of self-rising flour.
• Mix in spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to your bread.

How to Make Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This step ensures that your bread bakes evenly from the moment it goes in. Don’t forget to prepare your loaf pans by spraying them with baking spray or greasing with butter and flour!

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 fluffy. This aeration is key—it helps create a light texture for your bread.

Step 3: Mix in Sugars

Next, add the granulated and brown sugars. Beat on medium-high speed for another two minutes until fully combined. The sugars not only sweeten but also contribute moisture and richness.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Increase the mixer speed for about thirty seconds until everything is light beige in color. Scraping down the sides ensures all ingredients are well-mixed.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Lower the mixer speed again and gradually add the self-rising flour alternating with Greek yogurt, starting and ending with flour. Mixing gently prevents overworking the dough while maintaining that tender crumb.

Step 6: Fold in Bananas and Reese’s

Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in the mashed bananas and chopped Reese’s cups by hand until fully incorporated. This adds that signature flavor we all love!

Step 7: Divide & Bake

Use a measuring cup to evenly divide batter between two prepared loaf pans. Bake in your preheated oven for about 35 minutes before checking for browning—if it’s getting too dark, cover with foil.

Step 8: Finish Baking

Continue baking for another 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 9: Cool Down

Allow your loaves to cool in their pans for about 15 minutes before transferring them onto a cooling rack to cool completely. Patience here pays off as it helps set that moist texture!

Now that you know how easy it is to make this delightful Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread, I hope you give it a try soon! Enjoy every slice!

Pro Tips for Making Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with these helpful tips, you’ll create the best Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread that’s sure to impress your friends and family!

• Choose ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots—they’re perfect for mashing into that batter.

• Don’t overmix: When combining the flour and yogurt, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bread instead of that fluffy texture we all love.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bring your eggs and butter to room temperature before mixing. This helps them blend seamlessly, resulting in a smoother batter and a more tender loaf.

• Check for doneness carefully: Use a toothpick inserted in the center to check if it’s done. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready! If there’s batter on it, give it a few more minutes.

• Let it cool properly: Allow the bread to cool in the pans for at least 15 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. This prevents it from becoming soggy and helps maintain its shape.

How to Serve Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Serving your delicious Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation and make every slice special.

Garnishes

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped peanuts or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Chocolate drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate over each slice adds an irresistible touch of indulgence.
• Fresh banana slices: Add a few fresh banana slices on top of each slice for an appealing look and extra banana flavor.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt: Serve with a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt on the side for a tangy contrast that complements the sweetness of the bread.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and balances out the richness of the banana bread—try mixing berries, melons, and citrus fruits!
• Coffee or tea: Pairing with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances the cozy experience, making it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.
• Ice cream: For an indulgent dessert option, serve warm slices alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream—heavenly!

Enjoy baking and serving this delightful Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread! It’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

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. Here’s how to store and save it for later:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap each loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped loaves in an airtight container or a resealable bag.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap cooled loaves in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil for extra protection.
• Label the outside with the date and type of bread for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove any wrapping from the bread.
• Place the loaf on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for about 15-30 seconds.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious bread!

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture and flavor to your Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread. Just keep in mind that the texture will be slightly different.

How can I make this Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread healthier?

To make it healthier, consider using whole wheat flour instead of self-rising flour. You can also reduce the sugar by using ripe bananas for natural sweetness and replacing some granulated sugar with a sugar substitute if desired.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Greek yogurt?

If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, you can use plain yogurt or even unsweetened applesauce as a great alternative in your Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread recipe.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread brings joy to your kitchen! It’s not just a treat; it’s a delightful way to use up ripe bananas while indulging in that classic peanut butter and chocolate combination. Enjoy making this recipe, share it with friends and family, and savor every bite! Happy baking!