Introduction
If you’re looking for a delightful twist on traditional banana bread, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich flavors of peanut butter and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this banana bread is sure to become a family favorite. With its moist texture and indulgent chocolate-peanut butter chunks, every bite is a treat. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps needed to create this delicious dessert.
Ingredients
4 ripe bananas, mashed (about 2 cups or 450 grams)
3 large eggs (150 grams)
½ cup salted butter, room temperature (1 stick or 113 grams)
½ cup brown sugar (107 grams)
½ cup granulated sugar (99 grams)
⅓ cup creamy peanut butter (90 grams)
2 cups all-purpose flour (240 grams)
1 teaspoon baking soda (6 grams)
2 cups Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, roughly chopped and divided (about 350 grams)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10-15 minutes
Yield: 2 loaves
With the ingredients and instructions outlined above, you are set to create a decadent banana bread that masterfully blends classic flavors with a beloved candy treat. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Pans
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray two 9×5-inch loaf pans with nonstick spray or line them with parchment paper. Set the pans aside for later use.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, eggs, room temperature butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and creamy peanut butter. Use a hand or stand mixer to beat the mixture together until it becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Add the all-purpose flour and baking soda to the banana mixture. Mix these ingredients together until they are just combined; this should take about 1 minute. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender bread.
Step 4: Add Peanut Butter Cups
Gently fold in 1 cup of the roughly chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups into the batter, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.
Step 5: Pour into Pans
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared loaf pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops if necessary.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pans in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. To check if the bread is done, insert a toothpick into the center of each loaf; it should come out clean when fully baked.
Step 7: Cool and Top
Once baked, remove the loaf pans from the oven and let the bread cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Afterward, sprinkle the remaining chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups on top of each loaf for added sweetness and decoration.
Notes
Storage Instructions
Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze the banana bread, tightly wrap full loaves or individual slices in plastic wrap. Place them into an airtight container to protect against freezer burn, and they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Cook techniques
Mashing Bananas
Ensure your bananas are fully ripe for optimal sweetness and flavor. Use a fork or potato masher to mash them until smooth, removing any lumps.
Mixing Ingredients
When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bread. It’s key to blend until there are no visible flour streaks.
Using Room Temperature Ingredients
Bring eggs and butter to room temperature before mixing. This allows for better incorporation and a smoother batter.
Chopping Candy
Roughly chop the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups for an even distribution of flavor and texture throughout the bread.
Testing for Doneness
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is done.
Cooling & Storing
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
FAQ
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, thawed frozen bananas work well and can add extra moisture. Just ensure they are well-mashed before adding to the mix.
What if I don’t have brown sugar?
You can substitute with granulated sugar, but the bread may lack the depth of flavor that brown sugar provides.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for the regular flour.
How do I know if my banana bread is undercooked?
If the toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out with wet batter, it needs more time in the oven.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts or other ingredients like chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
How can I prevent the candy from sinking to the bottom?
Toss the chopped Reese’s in a little flour before folding them into the batter; this will help keep them suspended throughout the bread.
Conclusion
This delightful banana bread, enriched with peanut butter and chunks of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, is a perfect treat for any occasion. Its moist texture and sweet, nutty flavor make it an irresistible option for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with a little extra butter for a deliciously indulgent experience.
Chocolate Banana Bread
Combine mashed bananas with cocoa powder and chocolate chips for a rich, decadent version of banana bread.
Nut and Dried Fruit Banana Bread
Add a mixture of nuts (like walnuts or pecans) and dried fruits (like cranberries or raisins) for a hearty and nutritious twist.
Coconut Banana Bread
Incorporate shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical flair and a chewy texture.
Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
Create a cinnamon sugar swirl by layering the batter with a cinnamon-sugar mixture before baking for a warm spice flavor.
Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Banana Bread
Incorporate chocolate chips alongside the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups for an extra chocolatey treat.
