Introduction to Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Banana bread is one of those comforting, classic recipes that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. But what if we took it to the next level? Enter Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread—a decadent twist on the traditional loaf, featuring the perfect balance of sweet bananas, rich peanut butter, and indulgent chocolate.

This recipe is a dream come true for lovers of chocolate and peanut butter, as it blends the moist texture of banana bread with the creamy goodness of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Every bite is packed with melted chocolate chunks, nutty peanut butter swirls, and soft banana-infused cake, making it the ultimate treat for any occasion.

Not only is this banana bread incredibly delicious, but it’s also super easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a satisfying afternoon snack, or a crowd-pleasing dessert, this recipe checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up overripe bananas!

If you’re a fan of peanut butter treats, you’ll also love trying these Almond Flour Banana Muffins, another delicious way to use bananas in baking.

Want more peanut butter-inspired treats? Check out this Peanut Butter Pie for a creamy and rich dessert alternative!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Moist and rich texture from ripe bananas
✔ Packed with Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
✔ Easy to make with simple ingredients
✔ Perfect for peanut butter and chocolate lovers
✔ Freezer-friendly for make-ahead baking

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every great recipe starts with quality ingredients, and this Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is no exception. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in texture, flavor, and moisture, ensuring a perfectly balanced loaf. Here’s a breakdown of the key components and why they matter.

1. Bananas – The Star Ingredient 🍌

Overripe bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, creating a soft, tender texture.
The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the bread will be.

👉 Tip: Use dark yellow bananas with brown spots for the best results.

2. Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups – The Indulgent Twist 🍫🥜

Mini Reese’s Cups melt into gooey peanut butter pockets, giving the bread a decadent richness.
The combination of chocolate and peanut butter enhances the flavor depth.

🔹 Alternative: Swap with chocolate chips or chopped peanuts for variation.

3. Flour – The Structure Builder

All-purpose flour provides the necessary structure and density for the bread.
For a healthier option, try substituting with half whole wheat flour.

4. Butter & Sugar – The Texture Enhancers 🧈

Unsalted butter makes the bread rich and moist.
Granulated sugar sweetens the loaf while aiding in the golden crust formation.

👉 Swap it: Use brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.

5. Eggs – The Binding Agent 🥚

Eggs add structure, stability, and tenderness to the banana bread.
They help the bread rise properly and stay soft.

6. Milk & Vanilla – The Flavor Enhancers

Whole milk contributes to a rich, creamy texture.

Vanilla extract adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor.

7. Baking Powder & Baking Soda – The Leavening Agents

These create the perfect rise by incorporating air into the batter.
They prevent the bread from becoming too dense or heavy.

The Star Ingredient: Reese’s Cups

22 mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, chopped into quarters for mixing
6 mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, halved for topping

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

1. Prepping the Ingredients

✅ Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
✅ Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with baking spray.
✅ Unwrap and cut the Reese’s Cups into quarters (freeze them for 15 minutes beforehand for easier cutting).

2. Mixing the Batter

🔹 In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
🔹 In a separate large bowl, cream butter and sugar using a hand mixer.
🔹 Add in eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
🔹 Gradually add the flour mixture and milk, alternating between the two, starting and ending with flour.
🔹 Gently fold in the chopped Reese’s Cups using a spatula.

3. Baking the Banana Bread

🔹 Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan.
🔹 Arrange the remaining halved Reese’s Cups on top for a decorative finish.
🔹 Bake for 60-70 minutes, checking at 45 minutes—if browning too fast, cover with foil.
🔹 Your banana bread is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

4. Cooling & Serving

Let the bread cool in the pan for 30 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Cool completely for another hour before slicing.
Serve warm or at room temperature.

Expert Tips for the Perfect Loaf

✔ Use overripe bananas – Dark yellow with brown spots gives the best flavor and moisture.
✔ Don’t overmix – Stir just until combined to avoid dense bread.
✔ Experiment with add-ins – Try walnuts, chocolate chips, or cinnamon for extra depth.
✔ Storage Tip – Wrap tightly and store at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
✔ Freezing Instructions – Slice, wrap in plastic, and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

For another fun banana dessert idea, don’t miss these Pistachio Muffins—a great way to add a nutty twist to your baking!

Variations & Customizations

One of the best things about Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is how versatile it is! Whether you want to make it healthier, nuttier, or even more indulgent, here are some fun customizations to try:

1. Nutty Crunch 🥜

Add ¾ cup of chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds for an extra crunch.

Nuts provide a toasty flavor and pair perfectly with peanut butter and banana.

👉 Looking for another nutty treat? Try these delicious Pistachio Muffins for a unique twist!

2. Double the Chocolate 🍫

Swap half of the Reese’s Cups with chocolate chips for a richer chocolate experience.

Use dark chocolate chunks for a bittersweet contrast to the sweet bananas.

3. Spice It Up 🌿

Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
For extra depth, try a pinch of cloves or allspice.

4. Make It Healthier 💪

Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Swap granulated sugar for honey or coconut sugar for a natural sweetener.

👉 Prefer a lighter banana-based treat? Try these Almond Flour Banana Muffins for a healthier alternative!

5. Peanut Butter Swirl 🥄

Drizzle melted peanut butter over the batter before baking and swirl it with a knife.
This creates ribbons of peanut butter goodness in every bite!

With these fun customizations, you can create a banana bread masterpiece that suits your taste. 🍌🍫🥜 Which variation will you try first? 🚀

Storage and Freezing Tips

To keep your Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread moist, fresh, and delicious, follow these simple storage and freezing tips!

Storing at Room Temperature (Up to 3 Days) 🍞

Wrap the cooled banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
Keep it at room temperature in a cool, dry place—avoid direct sunlight.

If sliced, store individual slices wrapped in parchment paper to prevent them from drying out.

👉 Want more banana-based baked goods? Check out these Almond Flour Banana Muffins for another delicious treat!

Refrigerating for Longer Freshness (Up to 1 Week) ❄️

For longer storage, place the wrapped bread in the refrigerator.

Let it come to room temperature or warm it up in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.

Freezing for Future Enjoyment (Up to 2 Months) 🧊

Slice the bread into individual portions and wrap each slice in plastic wrap.
Place wrapped slices in a zip-top freezer bag, removing excess air.

To thaw, let slices sit at room temperature for 30 minutes or warm them in the microwave for 20 seconds.

👉 Exploring creative twists on banana bread recipes

By following these tips, you can enjoy your peanut butter banana bread anytime—fresh, warm, and as delicious as the day you baked it! 🍌🍫🥜

FAQs About Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread

1. How ripe should bananas be for baking?

Bananas should be dark yellow with brown spots—the riper, the sweeter!

2. How do you keep banana bread moist?

Store in an airtight container and avoid overbaking.

3. Can I freeze this banana bread?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store for up to 2 months.

4. What if I don’t have a loaf pan?

Use a muffin tin and bake for 18-22 minutes instead.

Final Thoughts

This Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, combining moist banana goodness, rich peanut butter, and creamy chocolate. Whether you serve it warm with a glass of milk or toasted with a pat of butter, every bite is an absolute delight.

Try this recipe today, and if you’re looking for more sweet treats, don’t forget to check out these Pink Macarons—a colorful and fun baking project! 🍌🍫🥜