If you love the combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and bananas, this Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is about to become your new favorite homemade treat. It combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with creamy peanut butter, chocolate chips, and chunks of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups to create a soft, moist, and incredibly flavorful loaf.
PrintReese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread – Easy & Moist
This Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is soft, moist, and loaded with creamy peanut butter, chocolate chips, and chopped Reese’s cups.
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread
- 3ripe medium bananas, mashed
- ½ cupunsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- ½ cupcreamy peanut butter
- ¾ cupbrown sugar
- 2large eggs
- 1 teaspoonvanilla extract
- ¼ cupsour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1¾ cupsall-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoonbaking soda
- ½ teaspoonbaking powder
- ½ teaspoonsalt
- ½ teaspoonground cinnamon
For the Mix-Ins
- ¾ cupReese’s peanut butter cups, chopped
- ½ cupsemi-sweet chocolate chips
- ¼ cuppeanut butter chips
For the Topping
- ¼ cupchopped Reese’s peanut butter cups
- 2 tablespoonschocolate chips
- 2 tablespoonscreamy peanut butter, melted
- 1 tablespoonchopped peanuts (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Oven and Pan
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9 × 5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until mostly smooth.
- Add the melted butter, creamy peanut butter, and brown sugar. Whisk until combined.
- Mix in the eggs, vanilla extract, and sour cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Combine the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture.
- Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Add the Chocolate and Peanut Butter
- Fold in the chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups, chocolate chips, and peanut butter chips.
- Reserve a small handful of chopped peanut butter cups and chocolate chips for the topping.
Fill the Loaf Pan
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the reserved peanut butter cups and chocolate chips over the top.
Bake the Banana Bread
- Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter.
- If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover the loaf with aluminum foil during the final 15–20 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 15 minutes.
Add the Peanut Butter Drizzle
- Warm the peanut butter in the microwave for 10–15 seconds, stirring until smooth and pourable.
- Drizzle it over the cooled banana bread.
- Add extra chopped peanut butter cups or peanuts if desired.
Every slice is packed with rich peanut butter flavor, sweet banana goodness, and delicious chocolate surprises. The texture is tender and fluffy, while the Reese’s pieces add a little crunch and plenty of chocolate-peanut butter goodness.
Best of all, this recipe is easy to prepare with simple ingredients and requires no special equipment. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or as a dessert, this banana bread is a delicious way to use up overripe bananas.
Why You’ll Love This Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread
- Rich peanut butter flavor:Creamy peanut butter adds a delicious nutty taste that pairs perfectly with bananas.
- Chocolate and peanut butter combination:Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and chocolate chips make every bite extra special.
- Moist and tender texture:Ripe bananas help create a soft, flavorful loaf that stays moist.
- Easy homemade recipe:You only need basic baking ingredients and a few simple mixing steps.
- Perfect for ripe bananas:It’s a wonderful way to use bananas sitting on your kitchen counter.
- Great for sharing:This sweet, chocolatey banana bread is perfect for family breakfasts, gatherings, and weekend baking.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
The magic of this banana bread comes from the combination of three classic flavors: bananas, peanut butter, and chocolate.
Ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, creating a tender texture without requiring complicated preparation. Creamy peanut butter brings a rich, nutty flavor that blends beautifully with the bananas.
The addition of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups takes everything to another level. As the bread bakes, the chocolate and peanut butter pieces become soft and delicious, creating little pockets of sweetness throughout the loaf.
Chocolate chips add even more chocolate flavor, making this recipe taste almost like a combination of homemade banana bread and a peanut butter chocolate dessert.
Helpful Tips for the Best Results
- Use very ripe bananas:Bananas with brown spots are sweeter and easier to mash, making them ideal for banana bread.
- Choose creamy peanut butter:Regular creamy peanut butter gives the batter a smooth texture and consistent flavor.
- Chop the Reese’s cups:Cut them into small pieces so you get chocolate and peanut butter in every slice.
- Reserve some toppings:Keep a few Reese’s pieces and chocolate chips to sprinkle over the batter before baking.
- Avoid overmixing:Mix the ingredients just until combined to keep the bread soft and tender.
- Check the center:Insert a toothpick into the middle of the loaf. It should come out with a few moist crumbs, but no wet batter.
- Allow it to cool:Let the banana bread cool before slicing so it holds its shape and doesn’t crumble.
When to Serve Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread
This banana bread is delicious enough for almost any occasion.
- Breakfast:Enjoy a slice with coffee, milk, or your favorite morning drink.
- Afternoon snack:A slice makes a satisfying sweet treat when you’re craving something chocolatey.
- Weekend brunch:Add it to your brunch table alongside fresh fruit and yogurt.
- Dessert:Serve slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra-indulgent treat.
- Family gatherings:Slice it into thick pieces and share it with friends and family.
Whether you’re a peanut butter lover, a chocolate fan, or simply looking for a new banana bread recipe, this Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread brings all three flavors together in one irresistible homemade loaf.
Ingredients
This Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread combines everyday baking ingredients with creamy peanut butter, chocolate chips, and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. The result is a rich, moist loaf with plenty of chocolate and peanut butter flavor in every slice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 medium ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
- ½ cup (125 g) creamy peanut butter
- ⅓ cup (75 g) unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup (100 g) brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup (60 ml) milk
- ½ cup (85 g) chocolate chips
- ¾ cup (about 125 g) Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, chopped
Optional Topping:
- 2 tablespoons chocolate chips
- ¼ cup chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
- A light drizzle of melted peanut butter
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Ripe bananas:Use very ripe bananas with brown spots. They provide natural sweetness and help create a moist texture.
Creamy peanut butter:Regular creamy peanut butter works best because it blends smoothly into the batter. Avoid natural peanut butter with separated oil if possible.
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups:Chop them into small pieces so their chocolate and peanut butter filling is distributed throughout the bread. Reserve a few pieces for the topping.
Chocolate chips:Semi-sweet chocolate chips balance the sweetness of the bananas and Reese’s cups. Milk chocolate chips are also a delicious option.
Brown sugar:Adds sweetness and a subtle caramel flavor. You can replace it with granulated sugar, although the flavor and moisture may vary slightly.
Milk:Helps loosen the batter and keep the loaf tender. Regular dairy or unsweetened milk alternatives can be used.
Unsalted butter:Adds richness and flavor. Melted coconut oil can be used as a substitute.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9 × 5-inch loaf pan
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Fork for mashing bananas
- Parchment paper
- Wire cooling rack
Before You Begin
- Preheat your oven to350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9 × 5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper.
- Mash the ripe bananas until mostly smooth.
- Chop the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups into small pieces.
- Measure the peanut butter and other ingredients before mixing.
- Reserve a few Reese’s pieces and chocolate chips for decorating the top.
- Make sure the melted butter has cooled slightly before combining it with the other wet ingredients.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time:15 minutes
- Cook Time:55–65 minutes
- Total Time:1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings:10 slices
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Oven and Loaf Pan
Preheat your oven to350°F (175°C). Grease a 9 × 5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until mostly smooth. Add the creamy peanut butter, melted butter, brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and milk. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Make the Banana Bread Batter
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Gently fold everything together with a rubber spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the banana bread soft and tender.
Add the Chocolate and Reese’s Pieces
Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Distribute them evenly throughout the batter, being careful not to overmix.
Fill the Loaf Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the reserved Reese’s pieces and chocolate chips over the top for an extra chocolatey finish.
Bake Until Golden
Bake for55–65 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. If the top starts browning too quickly, loosely cover the loaf with aluminum foil during the final part of baking.
Cool and Serve
Remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Transfer it to a wire rack and allow it to cool before slicing. For an extra-indulgent finish, drizzle a little melted peanut butter over the top before serving.
Helpful Tips for Perfect Results
- Use very ripe bananas for the best sweetness and moisture.
- Choose creamy peanut butter for a smooth, rich flavor.
- Chop Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups into small pieces for better distribution.
- Reserve some chocolate chips and Reese’s pieces for the topping.
- Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can make the bread dense.
- If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
- Check the center with a toothpick before removing the loaf from the oven.
- Allow the bread to cool before slicing so it holds together properly.
Serving Suggestions
Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is delicious on its own, but you can make it even more special with a few simple serving ideas.
- With a glass of milk:Enjoy a thick slice with cold milk for a classic chocolate and peanut butter combination.
- With coffee:Serve it alongside your morning coffee for a sweet breakfast or afternoon treat.
- With vanilla ice cream:Warm a slice slightly and add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an easy dessert.
- With extra peanut butter:Spread a thin layer of creamy peanut butter over a warm slice for an even richer flavor.
- With fresh fruit:Pair it with sliced strawberries or bananas for a delicious breakfast plate.
Storage Instructions
At Room Temperature:Allow the banana bread to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 2 days in a cool, dry place.
In the Refrigerator:Store the loaf or individual slices in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Let the slices come to room temperature or warm them slightly before serving.
In the Freezer:Wrap individual slices or the entire loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
Reheating:Warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds. You can also heat them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes.
Variations to Try
Extra Chocolate Reese’s Banana Bread:Add an additional ¼ cup of chocolate chips for an even richer chocolate flavor.
Crunchy Peanut Butter Banana Bread:Replace creamy peanut butter with crunchy peanut butter to add little pieces of peanuts throughout the loaf.
Peanut Butter Swirl Banana Bread:Before baking, add a few spoonfuls of slightly warmed peanut butter over the batter and gently swirl it with a knife.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread:Replace ¼ cup of the flour with unsweetened cocoa powder for a deeper chocolate flavor.
Walnut Peanut Butter Banana Bread:Add ½ cup chopped walnuts for extra crunch and a delicious nutty texture.
Mini Banana Bread Muffins:Divide the batter into lined muffin cups and bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 18–23 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure it is thoroughly stirred before measuring. Natural peanut butter can have a thinner consistency, which may slightly affect the texture of the batter. Regular creamy peanut butter generally gives more consistent results.
Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely! Thaw frozen bananas completely before using them. Drain any excess liquid if they release a lot of moisture, then mash them as usual.
Can I use Reese’s Pieces instead of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups?
Yes! Reese’s Pieces are a delicious alternative. They add a crunchy peanut butter candy coating, while Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups provide a softer chocolate and peanut butter filling.
Why is my banana bread dense?
Overmixing the batter or adding too much flour can make banana bread dense. Mix only until the dry ingredients are incorporated, and measure the flour carefully.
How do I know when the banana bread is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. It should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. If the center is still wet, continue baking and check again after 5 minutes.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the banana bread a day ahead and store it in an airtight container once completely cooled. The flavors remain delicious, making it a convenient option for breakfast or dessert.
Can I make this recipe without chocolate chips?
Of course! You can leave out the chocolate chips and use only chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. The bread will still have plenty of chocolate and peanut butter flavor.
Final Thoughts
Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is the perfect homemade treat for anyone who loves the combination of bananas, chocolate, and peanut butter. Its soft, moist texture, rich peanut butter flavor, and sweet Reese’s pieces make every slice irresistible.
Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, share it with family, or serve it as a simple dessert, this easy banana bread recipe is a delicious way to use ripe bananas and bring a little extra sweetness to your day.