Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through your kitchen. Now, imagine that tantalizing scent infused with rich, creamy peanut butter and chunks of delectable Reeses Peanut Butter Cups. This Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread is not just an ordinary loaf; it’s a sweet indulgence that combines the classic flavors of banana bread with the irresistible allure of chocolate and peanut butter. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack, this recipe will delight friends and family alike. Grab your ripe bananas and let’s dive into this deliciously decadent treat!
Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing
This Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread is a guaranteed hit at any gathering! Here’s why:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of bananas, peanut butter, and chocolate creates a flavor profile that appeals to everyone.
- Moist and Tender: The bananas add moisture, ensuring every slice is tender and delicious.
- Chunky Goodness: With generous chunks of Reeses Peanut Butter Cups throughout, each bite is packed with a delightful surprise.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible, even for novice bakers.
- Versatile: Enjoy it warm with butter, as a dessert with ice cream, or even toasted with a drizzle of honey.
Ingredient Rundown
To make this scrumptious Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 ripe bananas – smashed (about 2 cups or 450 grams): The key ingredient that keeps the bread moist and flavorful.
- 3 large eggs – 150 grams: Acts as a binder and adds richness.
- 1 cup salted butter – room temperature (113 grams): Provides a rich, buttery flavor.
- 1 cup brown sugar – 107 grams: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – 99 grams: Sweetens the bread and balances the flavors.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter – 90 grams: The star ingredient that enhances the peanut flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – 240 grams: The base of the bread that provides structure.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – 6 grams: Helps the bread rise and become fluffy.
- 2 cups Reeses Peanut Butter Cups – roughly chopped and divided (about 350 grams): The ultimate treat that takes this banana bread to the next level.
What You’ll Need (Gear)
Before you start baking, gather these essential tools:
- Mixing bowls: For combining your ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for the best results.
- Electric mixer: For creaming the butter and sugars together.
- Rubber spatula: Perfect for folding in the ingredients without deflating the batter.
- Bread pan: A standard 9×5 inch loaf pan works best for this recipe.
- Cooling rack: Allow the bread to cool evenly after baking.
Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread — Do This Next
Now that you have your ingredients and gear ready, let’s get baking!
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the bread bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Pan
Grease your loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the room temperature butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add the creamy peanut butter and mix until well combined. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the smashed bananas until incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking soda. This step helps to evenly distribute the baking soda throughout the flour.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, using a rubber spatula to fold everything together. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
Step 6: Fold in Reeses Peanut Butter Cups
Gently fold in 1.5 cups of the chopped Reeses Peanut Butter Cups, reserving the remaining 0.5 cup for topping the batter.
Step 7: Pour into Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining Reeses Peanut Butter Cups on top for an extra touch of indulgence.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing.
Season-by-Season Upgrades
This Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread is versatile and can be adapted for different seasons:
- Spring: Add a handful of chopped walnuts for a lovely crunch.
- Summer: Incorporate fresh blueberries for a fruity twist.
- Fall: Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor.
- Winter: Drizzle with melted chocolate or serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Mistakes That Ruin Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread
Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your banana bread turns out perfectly:
- Using underripe bananas: Ripe bananas provide the necessary sweetness and moisture.
- Overmixing the batter: This can make the bread tough. Mix just until combined.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science; incorrect measurements can lead to undesirable results.
- Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the bread to cool helps it set properly, making it easier to slice.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
If you find yourself with leftover Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread, you’re in luck! Here’s how to store it:
- Storage: Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To enjoy a slice warm, microwave it for about 10-15 seconds. Alternatively, toast it for a crispy edge.
- Meal Prep: This banana bread makes a great addition to meal prep. Slice it and pack it as a quick breakfast or snack throughout the week.
Reader Q&A
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes! Using crunchy peanut butter will add texture to your banana bread, giving it an extra delightful crunch.
How can I make this banana bread healthier?
You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar slightly. You could also use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Can I make this recipe into muffins?
Absolutely! Just pour the batter into a muffin tin and bake for about 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
What’s the best way to ripen bananas quickly?
If you need ripe bananas fast, place them in a brown paper bag at room temperature, or bake them in their skins at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes until soft.
What to Make After This
Once you’ve savored your Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread, consider trying these delightful recipes:
- Chocolate Chip Cookies – A classic treat that never disappoints.
- Peanut Butter Brownies – Rich and fudgy, with a hint of peanut butter goodness.
- Banana Pancakes – Perfect for a weekend brunch, fluffy and delicious!
- Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie – A quick, nutritious option for breakfast on the go.
Final Thoughts
This Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread is a true celebration of flavors, combining the heartiness of banana bread with the sweet, indulgent charm of peanut butter cups. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or keeping it all to yourself (we won’t tell!), this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. So, preheat that oven, mash those bananas, and get ready for a deliciously delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion!
Reeses Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even baking.
- Grease your loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray, or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the room temperature butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add the creamy peanut butter and mix until well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the smashed bananas.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking soda.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding everything together with a rubber spatula.
- Fold in 1.5 cups of chopped Reeses Peanut Butter Cups, reserving the remaining 0.5 cup for topping.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle the remaining Reeses Peanut Butter Cups on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- For extra crunch, try adding chopped walnuts in the batter.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For a fruity twist, include fresh blueberries in the batter.
