Saturday mornings tend to bring out the baker in me—especially when the fruit bowl holds those soft, spotty bananas that are just a day away from being tossed.

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One weekend, the pantry offered little more than the usual staples, but I noticed half a jar of creamy peanut butter staring back at me like it had something to prove. Instead of going the classic route, I leaned into that combo—banana and peanut butter, a timeless duo that’s equal parts comfort and childhood.

Mixing the batter, I knew this loaf was going to be something different. The aroma filling the kitchen was warm and nutty, with just enough sweetness to make you pause mid-stir. It was thick, dense, and creamy with bits of Reese’s tucked in like tiny surprises. The first slice? Moist, rich, and loaded with texture. Peanut butter cups melted into pockets of candy-like decadence, while the Reese’s Pieces added a playful crunch.

Since then, it’s become the recipe I turn to when I want something familiar but fun—a loaf that’s as easy to make as it is to share. Perfect with coffee or a late-night snack, this Peanut Butter Banana Bread walks the line between nostalgic and indulgent in all the best ways.

Short Description

Moist, rich, and full of peanut butter flavor, this banana bread is a fun twist on a classic. With chunks of Reese’s and a hint of crunch, it’s easy to make and even easier to love.

Key Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, mashed
½ cup creamy peanut butter
⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
½ cup milk (or buttermilk for extra richness)
1 cup chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
½ cup Reese’s Pieces (optional)

Tools Needed

Mixing bowls
Whisk or hand mixer
Rubber spatula
9×5-inch loaf pan
Measuring cups and spoons
Parchment paper (optional)
Wire cooling rack

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until mostly smooth. Add in peanut butter, melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until everything is well incorporated and creamy.

Step 4: Blend the Batter
Gradually stir in the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk. Stir until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.

Step 5: Fold in the Candy
Gently fold in the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and Reese’s Pieces if using. The batter will be thick and speckled with candy bits.

Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden and slightly cracked.

Step 7: Cool
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Optional Drizzle
For an extra peanut butter punch, melt ¼ cup peanut butter and drizzle it over the cooled loaf before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

– Moist and rich texture

– Combines two comforting flavors in one loaf

– Easy to make with pantry staples

– Kid-friendly and great for sharing

– Freezer-friendly for meal prepping

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

Overmixing the batter
Overmixing can make the bread dense. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated.
Solution: Fold gently with a spatula and stop once you don’t see dry flour.

Using under-ripe bananas
They don’t add enough sweetness or moisture.
Solution: Use bananas with lots of brown spots for full flavor.

Too much peanut butter
It can weigh the batter down.
Solution: Stick to the ½ cup for the best texture.

Underbaking
The loaf may look done but still be wet inside.
Solution: Use a toothpick test and check for a firm top and edges.

Storing warm bread
Traps moisture and causes sogginess.
Solution: Let the loaf cool completely before wrapping or slicing.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

– Serve warm with a pat of butter or peanut butter

– Pair with hot coffee, chai, or cold milk

– Slice and toast lightly for a crispy edge

– Cube it up for a dessert board or brunch platter

– Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sweet treat

Storage and Reheating Tips

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days

Fridge: Wrap tightly and store for up to 5 days

Freezer: Slice and wrap individual pieces; freeze up to 3 months

Reheat: Microwave slices for 10-15 seconds or toast lightly for crisp edges

FAQs

1. Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, but the texture will be a bit more rustic. It adds extra peanut bits for crunch.

2. What’s the best way to mash bananas for baking?
Use a fork or potato masher. For smoother texture, use a hand mixer briefly.

3. Can I skip the candy mix-ins?
Absolutely. The bread still tastes amazing with just the banana-peanut butter combo.

4. What kind of milk works best?
Whole milk adds richness, but buttermilk takes it up a notch. Dairy-free milk also works.

5. Why did my loaf sink in the middle?
It might be underbaked or your oven wasn’t hot enough. Use an oven thermometer and don’t open the door early.

Tips & Tricks

– Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and neat edges

– Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for contrast

– Let the loaf cool completely before slicing to avoid crumbling

– Want more peanut flavor? Swirl extra peanut butter into the top before baking

– Use mini loaf pans for individual servings—reduce baking time to 30–35 minutes

Recipe Variations

Chocolate Banana Peanut Butter Bread
Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the dry mix and fold in chocolate chips for a deeper, dessert-like loaf.

Healthier Version
Swap half the flour for whole wheat and reduce sugar to ¼ cup each. Use natural peanut butter and skip the candy.

Nut-Free Option
Use sunflower seed butter or cookie butter and omit the Reese’s. Still rich, still delicious.

Coconut Twist
Mix in ½ cup shredded coconut and use coconut milk instead of dairy. Great for a tropical flavor.

Double Peanut Crunch
Top the batter with chopped roasted peanuts before baking for extra texture and bite.

Final Thoughts

Some recipes stick around not just because they’re good, but because they feel right at home in your kitchen. This Peanut Butter Banana Bread is one of those keepers. It’s cozy without trying too hard, indulgent without tipping into overload. It leans on familiar ingredients, but the result always surprises people—in the best way.

It’s also a bit of a chameleon: brunch hero, late-night snack, freezer standby. You can dress it up, pare it down, or just enjoy it as-is. And if you’ve got a few bananas and a scoop of peanut butter lying around, you’re already halfway there.

Reese's Peanut Butter Banana Bread