If you’re a fan of peanut butter, chocolate, and bananas, get ready for the dessert of your dreams. This Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread combines everything you love into one moist, decadent loaf. Imagine rich banana flavor, swirls of peanut butter, and pockets of melty Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups all baked into a tender, sweet bread.
This isn’t your average banana bread. It’s the perfect way to use up overripe bananas, turn a classic comfort food into a dessert-worthy treat, and satisfy your sweet tooth all in one go. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack, this indulgent Reese’s banana bread is sure to impress.
Table of Contents
Moist, Rich, and Packed with Peanut Butter Cups
There’s nothing subtle about this recipe—and that’s exactly the point. It’s rich, bold, and packed with the classic combo of peanut butter and banana that we all love. Add chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups into the mix, and you’ve got a loaf that’s borderline dessert, yet perfectly acceptable for brunch or breakfast.
The banana provides moisture and natural sweetness, the peanut butter adds depth and creaminess, and the chopped candy takes it over the top. It’s a bread peanut butter and banana fans will want to bake on repeat.
A Decadent Twist on Traditional Peanut Butter Banana Bread
This recipe is more than just a Janet’s rich banana bread recipe clone. It takes inspiration from traditional banana bread and gives it a fun, indulgent twist with candy mix-ins and a peanut butter swirl that makes each slice a little bit magical.
Unlike typical peanut butter banana bread, this version has chunks of chocolate throughout, which melt slightly into the batter for an extra layer of texture and flavor. Whether you’re baking for a potluck or just treating yourself, it’s the best of both worlds.
What You Need for the Best Banana Bread with Peanut Butter and Chocolate
Here’s a full list of ingredients to make this incredible Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread:
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (plus extra for swirling on top)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (about 8–10 miniatures)
This list makes one standard loaf pan or about 8–10 generous slices. You can double the recipe for two loaves—because trust me, it won’t last long.
Kitchen Gear to Make Sweet Bread Baking Easy
You don’t need fancy tools to make this bread, just a few kitchen staples.
Equipment Needed:
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Rubber spatula
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- Parchment paper (optional, for easy removal)
- Cooling rack
This is a one-bowl recipe with minimal cleanup—perfect for casual bakers and seasoned pros alike.
How to Make Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread Perfectly Every Time
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper for easier removal.
Step 2: In a large bowl, mash the bananas. Add melted butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Whisk until smooth and combined.
Step 3: Sprinkle flour, baking soda, and salt over the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Fold in the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups using a spatula.
Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Dollop extra peanut butter on top and swirl gently with a knife for a marbled effect.
Step 6: Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (a few melted chocolate spots are okay).
Step 7: Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
This Reese’s banana bread will fill your kitchen with an amazing aroma and your belly with joy.
Texture, Flavor, and Baking Tips
To make sure your banana bread is moist and flavorful every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use bananas that are deeply spotted and soft—they’re sweeter and more flavorful
- Don’t overmix the batter or the bread will be dense
- Use a combination of white and brown sugar for balanced sweetness
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing for the cleanest cuts
- Store at room temperature in a sealed container to maintain moisture
For a cakier texture, reduce the butter by a tablespoon or two. For a fudgier finish, add extra peanut butter.
Switch It Up with Nuts, Swirls, or Toppings
There are countless ways to personalize this peanut butter bread recipe.
Try These Variations:
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch
- Swirl Nutella into the batter for a double chocolate twist
- Top with a sprinkle of sea salt for contrast
- Use chunky peanut butter for added texture
- Add chocolate chips for extra richness
If you’re feeling adventurous, turn this into muffins or mini loaves for perfect portion control.
How to Keep Your Peanut Butter Bread Fresh
This bread stores beautifully and actually gets better the next day.
Storage Tips:
- Keep at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic and refrigerate for up to 1 week
- Freeze slices individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months
To reheat, microwave slices for 15–20 seconds or toast lightly for a warm treat.
What to Pair with This Decadent Banana Bread
This bread peanut butter and banana combo pairs well with both breakfast and dessert items.
Serving Suggestions:
- With coffee or cold brew for a rich breakfast
- Topped with a scoop of vanilla Greek yogurt
- Served warm with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream
- With a drizzle of honey or chocolate syrup
- As a side to scrambled eggs and fruit for a brunch plate
It’s also a fun and thoughtful addition to brunch boards or bake sales.
Calories, Sugar, and Lighter Options
This isn’t the lightest banana bread—but it can be adjusted depending on your goals.
Estimated Nutrition Per Slice (1 of 10):
Calories: ~320
Fat: ~16g
Carbs: ~38g
Sugar: ~22g
Protein: ~6g
Fiber: ~2g
Healthier Swaps:
- Use Greek yogurt instead of butter
- Substitute coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener
- Reduce peanut butter to 1/4 cup and add applesauce
- Skip the candy and use dark chocolate chips instead
You can also make a gluten-free version by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
From Breakfast to Dessert – When to Serve It
This best banana bread recipe is a winner any time of day:
- Warm for breakfast with fruit
- As a sweet lunchbox addition
- Mid-afternoon snack with milk
- Sliced thin for dessert with whipped cream
- Gift-wrapped for holidays or birthdays
It’s a versatile bake that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Common Banana Bread Errors and How to Fix Them
Avoid these banana bread pitfalls to keep your loaf perfect:
- Dry bread: Use enough banana and don’t overbake
- Dense texture: Mix gently and don’t overdo the flour
- Sunken center: Ensure oven is fully preheated and don’t over-swirl peanut butter
- Greasy texture: Measure butter and peanut butter carefully
Always test with a toothpick and give the loaf time to rest before slicing.
Your Top Questions About Reese’s Banana Bread Answered
Can I make this without the candy?
Yes, just leave out the Reese’s and add more peanut butter or chocolate chips.
Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Absolutely. Bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes in a muffin tin.
Can I use chunky peanut butter?
Yes! It adds extra texture and a slight crunch to the bread.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but use two loaf pans and rotate them halfway through baking.
How do I know when it’s done?
A toothpick inserted in the center should come out with moist crumbs (not wet batter).
Why This is the Best Banana Bread Recipe for Chocolate and PB Fans
There are hundreds of bread recipes sweet enough to satisfy your cravings, but this one is something special. It takes the classic comfort of banana bread and elevates it with rich peanut butter and indulgent candy. The result? A loaf that’s soft, flavorful, and packed with chocolatey, nutty goodness in every bite.
Whether you’re baking for yourself or to share, this Reese’s peanut butter banana bread is guaranteed to bring smiles and second helpings. And maybe even third.
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PrintReese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread : Irresistible & Sweet
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Description
If you’re a fan of peanut butter, chocolate, and bananas, get ready for the dessert of your dreams.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (plus extra for swirling on top)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (about 8–10 miniatures)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper for easier removal.
Step 2: In a large bowl, mash the bananas. Add melted butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla. Whisk until smooth and combined.
Step 3: Sprinkle flour, baking soda, and salt over the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Fold in the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups using a spatula.
Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Dollop extra peanut butter on top and swirl gently with a knife for a marbled effect.
Step 6: Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (a few melted chocolate spots are okay).
Step 7: Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- Use bananas that are deeply spotted and soft—they’re sweeter and more flavorful
- Don’t overmix the batter or the bread will be dense
- Use a combination of white and brown sugar for balanced sweetness
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 55–65 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8–10 slices
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
Keywords: Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread