Treat yourself to a sweet and indulgent twist on traditional banana bread with this Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread. The perfect fusion of creamy peanut butter, ripe bananas, and chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups creates a moist, flavorful loaf that will delight any peanut butter and chocolate lover. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for breakfast, snack time, or as a delightful gift.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
A decadent dessert that combines peanut butter and chocolate for a rich flavor
-
Simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry
-
Moist and flavorful banana bread with the added sweetness of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
Ingredients Breakdown
Wet Ingredients:
-
Ripe Bananas (3, mashed):
Adds natural sweetness, moisture, and flavor to the banana bread. -
Creamy Peanut Butter (½ cup):
Rich and nutty, it brings a savory twist to the bread that complements the sweetness of the bananas. -
Unsalted Butter (½ cup, melted):
Provides richness and moisture to the bread. -
Granulated Sugar (¾ cup):
Sweetens the bread and balances the flavors. -
Eggs (2 large):
Helps bind the ingredients together and contributes to the structure of the bread. -
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp):
Adds a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Dry Ingredients:
-
All-Purpose Flour (1¾ cups):
The base of the bread, giving it structure and a tender crumb. -
Baking Soda (1 tsp):
Helps the bread rise, making it light and fluffy. -
Salt (½ tsp):
Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
Add-ins:
-
Mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (½ cup, chopped):
Adds chunks of peanut butter and chocolate for that signature Reese’s flavor in every bite. -
Chocolate Chips (½ cup, optional):
For extra chocolatey richness, if desired.
Tips and Tricks
-
Overripe bananas work best for banana bread—make sure they’re speckled with brown spots for maximum sweetness.
-
Peanut butter substitution: If you prefer a different nut butter, almond butter can be used as a substitute.
-
For a healthier version, try using whole wheat flour or a sugar substitute in place of the granulated sugar.
-
Be sure to check the bread with a toothpick before removing from the oven to ensure it’s fully baked.
Variations and Customizations
-
Add-ins: Consider adding chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans) for extra crunch.
-
Banana flavor twist: Mix in some cinnamon or nutmeg to give the banana bread a warm, spiced flavor.
-
Frosting: For an extra indulgence, frost with a simple peanut butter or cream cheese frosting for a full-on dessert experience.
Pairing Suggestions
-
Serve with: A cup of coffee or milk for the perfect dessert pairing.
-
Extra toppings: Serve with a drizzle of chocolate syrup or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Storage Instructions
-
Room Temperature: Store banana bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.
-
Refrigerator: For longer storage, keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.
-
Freezer: Freeze slices individually for up to 3 months for a quick grab-and-go treat.
Popular Questions
Can I make this banana bread ahead of time?
Yes! This banana bread keeps well for several days and can even improve in flavor as it rests.
Can I substitute the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups with something else?
You can replace the Reese’s with chopped chocolate or other peanut butter candy for a similar flavor.
Why is my banana bread too dense?
If your banana bread is dense, it might have been overmixed or overbaked. Be sure to gently stir the wet and dry ingredients together