If you love banana bread, peanut butter, and Reese’s, this recipe is a dream come true! This moist and flavorful Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is packed with ripe bananas, creamy peanut butter, Reese’s Pieces (or mini Reese’s cups), and chocolate chips for an indulgent twist on a classic.
In this in-depth article, we’ll explore:
The history of banana bread and peanut butter
Why this combination works so well
Expert baking tips for perfect banana bread
Creative variations and mix-ins
Storage and serving suggestions
Step-by-step instructions with detailed explanations
By the end of this article, you’ll be a banana bread master with a new go-to recipe for breakfast, dessert, or anytime snacking!
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The History of Banana Bread & Peanut Butter 🍌🥜
The Origins of Banana Bread
Banana bread became popular during the Great Depression in the 1930s when home bakers looked for ways to use overripe bananas instead of wasting them. As baking powder and baking soda became more common, banana bread recipes evolved, creating the fluffy, moist texture we love today.
Peanut Butter: A Classic American Staple
Peanut butter has been around since the late 1800s, but it gained massive popularity in the 20th century due to its affordability and nutritional benefits. It pairs beautifully with bananas, thanks to its creamy texture and nutty flavor, making it a favorite combination in sandwiches, smoothies, and now—banana bread!
Why Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is Special
This recipe takes classic banana bread to the next level by adding:
Creamy peanut butter for a rich, nutty depth
Reese’s Pieces or mini Reese’s cups for a fun, candy-filled surprise
Chocolate chips for extra indulgence
It’s like having a banana bread, a peanut butter cup, and a chocolate chip cookie all in one bite!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️
✔ Moist & Flavorful – The bananas and peanut butter make this bread super soft and rich.
✔ Easy to Make – Just mix, pour, and bake! No complicated techniques required.
✔ Perfect for Breakfast or Dessert – Enjoy it with coffee, milk, or as a sweet treat.
✔ Customizable – Easily swap ingredients or add extras to suit your taste.
✔ A Great Way to Use Overripe Bananas – No more wasting bananas—turn them into something delicious!
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Ingredient Breakdown 🛒
Here’s why each ingredient is essential for the perfect banana bread:
Dry Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure and a soft texture.
1 teaspoon baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent, helping the bread rise.
½ teaspoon salt – Enhances flavors and balances sweetness.
Wet Ingredients:
3 large ripe bananas, mashed – The key to moist banana bread! The riper, the better.
½ cup creamy peanut butter – Adds richness and a nutty flavor.
½ cup unsalted butter, melted – Ensures a tender crumb and buttery taste.
¾ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the bread and helps with browning.
2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances all the flavors with a warm, sweet aroma.
Mix-Ins:
1 cup Reese’s Pieces or mini Reese’s cups, chopped – Adds a peanut butter candy crunch.
½ cup semisweet chocolate chips – Melts beautifully for extra decadence.
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Step-by-Step Instructions 👨🍳
1️⃣ Preheat Your Oven
Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Set aside.
3️⃣ Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mash 3 ripe bananas until smooth.
Stir in the peanut butter, melted butter, and sugar until fully combined.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
4️⃣ Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
Stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix, or the bread will be dense!
5️⃣ Add Reese’s & Chocolate Chips
Fold in the chopped Reese’s Pieces or mini Reese’s cups.
Stir in the chocolate chips, ensuring even distribution.
6️⃣ Bake the Banana Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7️⃣ Cool & Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature!
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Creative Variations & Add-Ins 🎨
Want to switch things up? Try these fun variations!
1. Crunchy Nutty Banana Bread 🌰
Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
2. Chocolate Lover’s Version 🍫
Replace ½ cup flour with cocoa powder for a double chocolate version.
Use dark chocolate chips instead of semisweet.
3. Healthier Peanut Butter Banana Bread 🥑
Swap butter for coconut oil or Greek yogurt.
Use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar.
Add ground flaxseed or chia seeds for extra fiber.
4. Vegan Banana Bread 🌱
Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg).
Use dairy-free chocolate chips and a plant-based butter substitute.
5. Mini Banana Bread Muffins 🧁
Pour batter into a muffin tin and bake for 18-22 minutes.
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Expert Baking Tips 🏆
✔ Use Overripe Bananas – The darker the banana, the sweeter and more flavorful the bread.
✔ Don’t Overmix – Stir just until combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
✔ Cover with Foil if Needed – If the top is browning too quickly, tent with foil during the last 15 minutes.
✔ Check for Doneness – Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
✔ Let it Cool – Resting allows flavors to develop and prevents crumbling.
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Serving & Pairing Ideas 🍽️
This banana bread is delicious on its own, but here are some tasty pairings:
Drinks:
A hot cup of coffee or espresso ☕
A tall glass of milk 🥛
A peanut butter banana smoothie 🍌
Toppings:
Drizzle with melted peanut butter or Nutella.
Spread cream cheese or butter on warm slices.
Top with extra Reese’s for a fun presentation.
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Storage & Freezing Guide 🏪
How to Store
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for 2-3 days.
Refrigerate: Keeps fresh for up to a week.
How to Freeze
Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for 30 seconds.
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Final Thoughts: A Must-Try Dessert Bread 🎉
This Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is moist, rich, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, it’s guaranteed to satisfy any peanut butter and chocolate lover.
Try it today and let us know how it turns out!
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