Peanut Butter Banana Bread Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, flavorful treat that combines rich nuttiness and naturally sweet fruit, this Peanut Butter Banana Bread is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s the perfect marriage of creamy peanut butter and ripe bananas, yielding a moist, tender loaf with just the right hint of sweetness. Whether you’re baking for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a comforting dessert, this recipe hits all the right notes. Plus, adding chocolate chips gives it that extra touch of indulgence that makes it impossible to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might be simple, but each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and moistness of your Peanut Butter Banana Bread. Using overripe bananas amps up the natural sweetness, while the peanut butter adds richness and depth. Make sure your peanut butter is creamy for the best results!

• 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour: Provides structure to the bread, keeping it tender but sturdy.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: The leavening agent that helps the bread rise beautifully.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds buttery richness and moisture.
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: Gives the bread its signature nutty flavor and creamy texture.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread and helps with browning.
• 2 large eggs, room temperature: Binds ingredients and adds richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth to the flavor.
• 3 medium overripe bananas, mashed: Gives natural sweetness, moisture, and a soft crumb.
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional): For that irresistible chocolatey burst in every bite.

How to Make Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or shortening to ensure your Peanut Butter Banana Bread releases easily after baking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. This step ensures even distribution of the leavening and seasoning throughout your batter, which is key for consistent texture and flavor.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, blend the melted butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the mashed overripe bananas, which lend natural sweetness and irresistible moistness to the bread.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Add the dry ingredients to the wet ones and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here; overmixing can make your Peanut Butter Banana Bread tough. If you’re using chocolate chips, fold them in now for an extra layer of gooey goodness.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for about 45 to 50 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Garnishes

While the Peanut Butter Banana Bread is wonderful all on its own, a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of honey, or a light spread of creamy peanut butter can elevate the experience. Toasted nuts on top add crunch and a lovely contrast to the soft crumb.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a comforting morning or afternoon combo. For something heartier, try serving alongside a fresh fruit salad or a yogurt parfait to balance the rich flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the Peanut Butter Banana Bread and serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for an indulgent dessert twist. For a fun breakfast, toast slices and spread with almond butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a tasty upgrade.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your Peanut Butter Banana Bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It stays moist and fresh on the countertop for up to 4 days, making it a perfect grab-and-go snack for busy mornings or impromptu tea times.

Freezing

If you want to keep the bread longer, freezing is a great option. Slice the loaf, wrap pieces individually in plastic wrap, and place them in a zip-top bag. Frozen Peanut Butter Banana Bread will keep well for up to 3 months, ready to thaw whenever a craving strikes.

Reheating

To warm up your bread, microwave slices for about 15 to 20 seconds or toast them lightly for a crispy edge. This brings back the fresh-baked feel and melts any peanut butter or chocolate chips inside for a cozy treat.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy?

Natural peanut butter tends to be less smooth and can separate, which might affect the texture and moisture of your bread. For the best creamy, tender crumb in your Peanut Butter Banana Bread, creamy peanut butter works better.

Do I have to add chocolate chips?

The chocolate chips are optional but highly recommended if you want to add a little extra indulgence. The classic Peanut Butter Banana Bread is delicious on its own, but the melty chocolate chips take it to another level.

How ripe should the bananas be?

Overripe bananas with dark speckled skins are the way to go here. The more ripe they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. If you freeze bananas, thaw them in the fridge overnight for best results.

Can I substitute all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour?

You can swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat, but keep in mind the bread will be denser and have a nuttier flavor. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose for a balanced texture and taste.

What if my bread browns too much on top?

If the top of your Peanut Butter Banana Bread starts browning too quickly during baking, loosely cover it with aluminum foil halfway through. This protects the crust while allowing the inside to cook perfectly.

Final Thoughts

I genuinely hope you give this Peanut Butter Banana Bread a try soon, because it’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Each bite is packed with comforting flavors that remind you why homemade baked goods are so special. Whether for a special occasion or a simple everyday treat, this bread never disappoints!

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