Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Introduction

Peanut Butter Banana Bread is a delightful twist on the classic banana bread, combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter. This moist, flavorful loaf is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack with a cup of coffee or tea. The peanut butter not only enhances the taste but also adds a creamy texture that makes each slice irresistibly soft and satisfying.

I love this recipe because it’s both comforting and versatile. The aroma of bananas and peanut butter baking in the oven fills the kitchen with warmth and nostalgia. It’s a simple recipe that transforms everyday ingredients into a bakery-quality treat, perfect for sharing with family or enjoying on your own. The balance of sweet and savory, soft and slightly dense texture, makes this bread a true crowd-pleaser.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this Peanut Butter Banana Bread recipe because it’s easy to make, forgiving, and endlessly delicious. The peanut butter adds richness without overwhelming the natural banana flavor, and the texture is perfectly moist, making it great for slicing and enjoying fresh or toasted. I also love that it’s a versatile base—you can add chocolate chips, nuts, or swirl in extra peanut butter for a decadent touch.

It’s a recipe that delivers comfort, flavor, and satisfaction in every bite. From the first slice to the last, it’s hard to resist the combination of bananas, peanut butter, and a hint of sweetness. Baking this bread at home also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that makes the experience as enjoyable as the result.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Peanut Butter Banana Bread is a must-try because it elevates a classic comfort food with the nutty, creamy flavor of peanut butter. It’s a versatile dish that works for breakfast, brunch, snack, or even dessert. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas reduces the need for excess sugar, making it a slightly healthier indulgence.

This bread is perfect for sharing with family and friends, gifting during holidays, or simply enjoying as a treat at home. Its moist texture, rich flavor, and simple preparation make it a recipe that belongs in every kitchen.

Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: American
• Course: Breakfast / Snack / Dessert
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 10 slices
• Calories (per slice): ~280 kcal

Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (or granulated sugar)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Optional add-ins: 1/2 cup chocolate chips, 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
2. Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, mash bananas thoroughly. Stir in melted butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Mix batter: Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Add optional ingredients: Gently fold in chocolate chips or nuts if desired.
6. Pour into pan: Transfer batter to the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake: Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Slice and serve: Cut into slices and enjoy plain, toasted, or with a spread of peanut butter.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat oven and prepare pan.
2. Mash bananas in a large mixing bowl.
3. Add peanut butter, melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla; mix until smooth.
4. Whisk flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl.
5. Fold dry ingredients into wet mixture gently.
6. Add chocolate chips or nuts if desired.
7. Pour batter into pan and smooth the surface.
8. Bake 55-60 minutes until toothpick comes out clean.
9. Cool bread before slicing.
10. Serve and enjoy with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.

How to Serve

• Serve slices plain or toasted with an extra spread of peanut butter.
• Pair with coffee, tea, or milk for a complete breakfast or snack.
• Top with honey, chocolate drizzle, or fresh fruit for a dessert-style treat.

Recipe Tips

• Use overripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor.
• Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the bread tender.
• Greasing the pan or using parchment paper prevents sticking.
• Add chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture and flavor.
• Let the bread cool completely before slicing for clean slices.

Variations

1. Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread: Fold in 1/2 cup chocolate chips and swirl some peanut butter on top before baking.
2. Nutty Banana Bread: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds.
3. Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter.
4. Healthy Version: Substitute 1/3 cup applesauce for butter and use whole wheat flour.
5. Spiced Banana Bread: Add 1 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp nutmeg, or 1/4 tsp allspice for warm flavors.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Wrap slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap and aluminum foil; freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or toast slices directly from frozen.

Special Equipment Needed

• 9x5-inch loaf pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl for dry ingredients
• Fork or potato masher for bananas
• Spatula for folding batter
• Wire rack for cooling

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Banana Bread is a moist, flavorful, and satisfying treat that combines the best of bananas and peanut butter in one loaf. Perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert, this bread is simple to make, versatile, and endlessly customizable. Its rich aroma, soft texture, and delicious taste make it a must-try recipe for banana and peanut butter lovers alike. Perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own, this bread is a timeless classic with a nutty twist.