**Introduction**
If you’re a fan of peanut butter and chocolate, this REESE’S Peanut Butter Banana Bread is an absolute must-try! Imagine a moist, sweet banana bread bursting with layers of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate. This delightful dish not only pleases the palate but also fills your kitchen with a heavenly aroma that invites everyone in. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this recipe combines the comfort of homemade bread with the indulgent flavors we all crave.
**Overview of the Recipe**
When you whip up this Peanut Butter Banana Bread, expect a moist, classic loaf with a sweet yet nutty flavor profile. The delightful blend of ripe bananas, creamy peanut butter, and chocolate chips creates a chewy texture enhanced by the crunch of REESE’S peanut butter cups. This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for beginner bakers yet satisfying enough to impress seasoned pros. With prep time at just 15 minutes, you can have your delicious bread ready to enjoy in just over an hour!
**History and Origin**
Banana bread has its roots in the American home baking scene, becoming popular during the Great Depression when resources were scarce, and creative recipes were born out of necessity. The addition of peanut butter and chocolate reflects our evolving palate for sweet indulgences. The REESE’S brand, founded by H.B. Reese in the 1920s, has become a beloved chocolate icon known for its rich peanut butter cups. Merging these elements, this recipe celebrates modern comfort food that pays homage to tradition while adding a fun twist.
**Ingredients**
To make this delectable REESE’S Peanut Butter Banana Bread, gather the following ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
– 1/2 cup chopped REESE’S peanut butter cups (plus extra for topping)
**Step-by-Step Instructions**
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, peanut butter, honey (or maple syrup), beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and flour. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are okay.
4. Add Chocolate and REESE’S: Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped REESE’S peanut butter cups, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. If desired, sprinkle additional chopped REESE’S on top for decoration.
6. Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it; if the top browns too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
7. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy your delicious REESE’S Peanut Butter Banana Bread warm or at room temperature!
**Pairing and Serving Suggestions**
This irresistible bread pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of cold almond milk. It makes an excellent dessert after a cozy dinner or a delightful breakfast treat. Additionally, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a smear of extra peanut butter for an added indulgence.
**Variations of the Recipe**
– Nut-Free Variant: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
– Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free.
– Add Ins: Include chopped nuts or swap out chocolate chips for dried fruits for a healthier touch.
**Health Benefits and Notes**
Bananas are rich in potassium and fiber, making this bread a wholesome treat. Peanut butter offers healthy fats and protein, while the added honey or maple syrup provides natural sweetness without refined sugars. For a healthier spin, you could reduce the amount of sweetener and rely on the natural sweetness of the bananas.
**FAQs**
**Can I use frozen bananas?**
Yes! Thaw and mash the frozen bananas before using them in the recipe. They may be a bit more watery, so just drain excess liquid if necessary.
**How should I store leftovers?**
Store any leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it well and freeze for up to 2 months.
**Can I make this recipe vegan?**
You can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use maple syrup as your sweetener.
**Conclusion**
This REESE’S Peanut Butter Banana Bread is not just a treat to taste; it’s an experience to savor! With its rich flavors and delightful texture, making this bread is a rewarding endeavor. Whether you’re sharing with family or keeping it all to yourself, we encourage you to try experimenting with this recipe — you just might discover your new favorite way to enjoy banana bread! Let us know how your creation turns out!