Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread

Banana bread is a timeless classic that never fails to comfort and delight. But when you add the rich, creamy goodness of peanut butter and the irresistible charm of Reeses Peanut Butter Cups, you elevate this humble loaf into a decadent treat that’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert. This Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the smoothness of peanut butter and the melt-in-your-mouth texture of chopped peanut butter cups to create a bread that’s moist, flavorful, and utterly addictive.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and yields a loaf that’s packed with flavor and texture. It’s the perfect way to use up those bananas that have gone beyond their prime and transform them into something spectacularly delicious. Plus, the addition of Reeses Peanut Butter Cups adds pockets of chocolatey peanut butter surprise in every slice!

The Upside of Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread

This banana bread is more than just a quick fix for overripe bananas—it’s a celebration of flavors that brings together the best of peanut butter and chocolate. The bread is incredibly moist, thanks to the ripe bananas and creamy peanut butter, while the chopped Reeses Peanut Butter Cups add a wonderful textural contrast. It’s a treat that satisfies sweet cravings without being overly sugary.

You get a rich, nutty flavor balanced by the natural sweetness of bananas and brown sugar, making every bite a perfect harmony of tastes. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed warm from the oven or toasted lightly with a smear of butter. This loaf also makes a fantastic gift or a crowd-pleaser at brunch or potlucks.

For those looking to add even more banana-inspired goodness to their kitchen repertoire, don’t miss out on the Peanut Butter Banana Oat Protein Smoothie, which is a quick and healthy way to start your day.

Shopping List

• 4 ripe bananas, mashed (about 2 cups or 450 grams)
• 3 large eggs (150 grams)
• 1 stick salted butter, room temperature (113 grams)
• ½ cup brown sugar (107 grams)
• ½ cup granulated sugar (99 grams)
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter (90 grams)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (240 grams)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda (6 grams)
• 2 cups Reeses Peanut Butter Cups, roughly chopped and divided (about 350 grams)

Hardware & Gadgets

• Mixing bowls – for combining wet and dry ingredients separately
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise ingredient measurements
• Electric mixer or hand whisk – to blend butter, sugars, and eggs smoothly
• Fork or potato masher – to mash the bananas
• Spatula – for folding ingredients together gently
• 9×5-inch loaf pan – the perfect size to bake the banana bread evenly
• Cooling rack – to cool your bread without sogginess

Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread: How It’s Done

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Peel and mash the 4 ripe bananas thoroughly until smooth, then set aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter, Sugars, and Peanut Butter

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer or hand whisk to cream together the softened salted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the creamy peanut butter and continue to mix until fully combined and smooth.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Bananas

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, fold in the mashed bananas gently, maintaining the fluffy texture of your batter.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking soda. This ensures even distribution of the baking soda throughout your flour.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients Into Wet

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, folding carefully with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your bread tender.

Step 6: Add Peanut Butter Cups

Fold in 1½ cups of the chopped Reeses Peanut Butter Cups, reserving the remaining half cup for topping.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle the reserved chopped peanut butter cups evenly over the surface. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

If you’re intrigued by banana bread variations, you might also enjoy the rich flavors of Caramel Banana Bread With Walnuts.

Substitutions by Diet

• Butter: Use coconut oil or a plant-based margarine for a dairy-free option.
• Peanut Butter: Substitute with almond or sunflower seed butter if allergic to peanuts.
• Flour: Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for added fiber, but expect a denser texture.
• Eggs: Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg) to make it egg-free.
• Sugars: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a less refined sweetener.

Errors to Dodge

• Using underripe bananas: Your bread won’t be as sweet or moist. Always opt for very ripe bananas with brown spots.
• Overmixing the batter: This can result in dense, tough bread instead of a tender crumb.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Too hot can burn the crust before the inside cooks; too low, and the bread may be gummy.
• Not greasing the pan: This can cause the bread to stick and break apart when removing.
• Adding all peanut butter cups into the batter: Some on top provide a visually appealing and melty topping.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread keeps beautifully at room temperature for two to three days if wrapped well in foil or stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, slice and freeze the bread for up to three months. Thaw slices at room temperature or warm gently in a toaster oven for that fresh-baked feel. It also reheats wonderfully in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why is my banana bread dense and heavy?

Dense banana bread usually results from overmixing the batter, which develops gluten and leads to a tough texture. Make sure to fold the ingredients gently and only until just combined. Also, check if your baking soda is fresh, as expired leavening agents can make the bread heavy.

How can I prevent my peanut butter cups from sinking to the bottom?

To help keep your chopped peanut butter cups suspended in the batter, toss them lightly in a tablespoon of flour before folding them in. This creates a barrier that prevents them from sinking during baking.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the salted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine and ensure your peanut butter is free from dairy additives. The recipe will still yield a moist and flavorful bread.

What’s the best way to store leftover banana bread?

Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, slice and freeze the bread in a zip-top bag for up to three months.

Our Most-Loved Recipes

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• Caramel Banana Bread With Walnuts – a caramel-infused banana bread twist
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• Homemade Hummus – creamy, savory dip made from scratch

Bring It Home

Baking this Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread is like wrapping yourself in a warm, cozy blanket of flavors. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate in a moist banana bread is a surefire way to brighten any day. Whether you’re making it for your morning toast or an indulgent afternoon pick-me-up, this recipe promises satisfaction with every bite. Don’t forget to experiment with the recipe by adding your favorite nuts or swapping out flavors to make it your own. Happy baking!

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