Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

A twist on the classic banana bread, this Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is a deliciously indulgent treat that combines the sweet, comforting flavors of ripe bananas with the creamy richness of peanut butter and chocolate. Add in chunks of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and crunchy Reese’s Pieces, and you’ve got a dessert that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe takes banana bread to a whole new level by adding the irresistible flavor combination of peanut butter and chocolate. The bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, while the peanut butter enhances the bread’s texture with a creamy richness. The chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups melt into the bread, creating pockets of gooey peanut butter and chocolate goodness, and the Reese’s Pieces offer a fun, colorful crunch. Plus, the optional peanut butter drizzle on top takes this banana bread over the top, making it a truly decadent treat. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this banana bread will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread:

• 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 for extra crunch & color)

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

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.

2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt; set aside.

3. In another bowl, mash the bananas, then mix in the peanut butter, melted butter, sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with milk, mixing until just combined.

5. Gently fold in the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and Reese’s Pieces (if using).

6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

7. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. (Optional) Melt ¼ cup peanut butter and drizzle it over the cooled bread for extra goodness.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes approximately 10-12 slices of banana bread, depending on how thick you slice it.

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Bake time: 55-65 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes – 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Gluten-free version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.

• Dairy-free: Use non-dairy milk (like almond milk) and replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut oil or margarine.

• More peanut butter: For even more peanut butter flavor, swirl additional peanut butter into the batter before baking, or add extra peanut butter chips.

• Add chocolate chips: If you’re a fan of chocolate, try adding some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips along with the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: To keep the banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to a week.

• Freezing: This banana bread freezes wonderfully! Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer bag. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

• Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave individual slices for 15-20 seconds or warm the whole loaf in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, you can! Crunchy peanut butter will add a little more texture to the bread, but it will still taste delicious.

Can I make this recipe without Reese’s Pieces?

Absolutely! If you don’t have Reese’s Pieces, you can leave them out or use another type of candy or nuts for a different twist.

Is it necessary to add the optional peanut butter drizzle?

It’s not necessary, but it’s definitely a fun and indulgent touch. If you love peanut butter, it makes the bread even richer and more decadent!

Can I use a different type of chocolate candy instead of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups?

Yes, you could use any chocolate candy you like, but Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are ideal for this recipe as they provide both chocolate and peanut butter in one candy.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk or use a milk-lemon juice mixture (1 tablespoon of lemon juice mixed with ½ cup of milk) to create a similar tangy effect.

How do I know when the banana bread is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your banana bread is done. If it comes out with wet batter, bake for an additional 5 minutes and check again.

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen bananas! Simply thaw them before using them in the recipe. Frozen bananas actually make for a sweeter, more flavorful banana bread.

How do I make sure my banana bread doesn’t dry out?

Be careful not to overmix the batter or overbake the bread. Once the toothpick comes out clean, take the bread out of the oven immediately to avoid it becoming dry.

Can I make this recipe in a muffin tin instead of a loaf pan?

Yes, you can! Divide the batter evenly into a greased muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ of the way full. Bake at 350°F for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Can I add nuts to this banana bread?

Certainly! Chopped walnuts or pecans would be a great addition. Just fold them into the batter along with the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.

Conclusion

Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is the ultimate indulgence, blending the classic comfort of banana bread with the irresistible flavors of peanut butter and chocolate. With its moist, fluffy texture and pockets of melted candy goodness, this banana bread is perfect for a special treat or a fun twist on your usual banana bread recipe. Whether you drizzle it with extra peanut butter or enjoy it on its own, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.