Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Two perennial favorites combine to create this moist, tender Peanut Butter Banana Bread. It’s not just a treat for breakfast but also perfect for snacks or dessert. The rich peanut butter flavor melds beautifully with sweet bananas, ensuring every bite is a delight. This recipe is simple enough for beginners yet delivers impressive results, making it suitable for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to festive brunches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The straightforward steps make this bread perfect for novice bakers.
• Deliciously Moist: Overripe bananas ensure that each slice is soft and flavorful.
• Versatile Add-ins: Customize your bread by adding your favorite nuts or even chocolate chips.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Bake a loaf ahead of time for quick breakfasts or snacks throughout the week.
• Kid-Friendly: A great way to sneak in some extra nutrition, kids will love the taste!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of this recipe, gather your tools to streamline the process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 9 x 5 loaf pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Makes it easy to cream butter and sugar together quickly, creating a light and fluffy batter.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for separating dry and wet ingredients and mixing them without mess.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for folding ingredients together gently without deflating the batter.

Ingredients

To create your delicious Peanut Butter Banana Bread, gather the following ingredients:

Dry Ingredients

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 1/2 cups mashed banana (about 3 or 4 medium overripe bananas)

Optional Add-ins

• 1/2 to 2/3 cups chopped nuts (such as pecans, walnuts, hazelnuts, or peanuts)

How to Make Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9 x 5 loaf pan. If desired, line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the following:
* All-purpose flour
* Ground cinnamon
* Baking powder
* Baking soda
* Salt

Set aside once combined.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using an electric mixer on medium speed:
1. Beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and peanut butter until fluffy.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Reduce mixer speed to low:
1. Gradually add the flour mixture in three portions.
2. Alternate with two portions of sour cream until just combined.

Step 5: Add Bananas and Nuts

Gently stir in the mashed bananas. If using nuts, fold them into the batter now.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

Spread the batter evenly into your prepared loaf pan. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Step 7: Cool Down

Allow bread to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it directly onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your delightful Peanut Butter Banana Bread!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Peanut butter banana bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve it as a breakfast option, a snack, or even a dessert, here are some ideas to elevate your experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Strawberries – Add a fresh and juicy contrast to the rich flavors of the bread.
• Banana Slices – Enhance the banana flavor by topping your slice with more banana.
• Berries – Blueberries or raspberries offer a tartness that complements the sweetness of the bread.

With Spreads

• Honey Drizzle – A touch of honey adds sweetness and an extra layer of flavor.
• Cream Cheese – Spread on some cream cheese for a creamy and tangy contrast.
• Nutella – For chocolate lovers, Nutella pairs beautifully with peanut butter.

As Toast

• Toast It – Lightly toasting slices brings out the flavors and adds a nice crunch.
• Add Toppings – Top with sliced almonds or coconut flakes for added texture.

In Smoothies

• Blend into Smoothies – Use chunks of the bread in smoothies for added creaminess and flavor.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter Banana Bread

To ensure your peanut butter banana bread turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips:

• Use Overripe Bananas – The riper the bananas, the sweeter and moister your bread will be.
• Room Temperature Ingredients – Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Don’t Overmix – Mix just until combined to keep the bread tender and light.
• Check Doneness Early – Test for doneness a few minutes early by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
• Let it Cool Completely – Allowing it to cool fully helps develop the flavors and makes slicing easier.
• Experiment with Add-ins – Try adding chocolate chips or dried fruit for variations on this classic recipe.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Pairing side dishes with peanut butter banana bread can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Greek Yogurt – A bowl of Greek yogurt provides protein and balances the sweetness of the bread.
2. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the richness of the banana bread.
3. Chia Seed Pudding – This nutritious pudding offers a creamy texture that pairs well with each slice.
4. Granola – Crunchy granola adds texture and can be sprinkled on top of yogurt or served on the side.
5. Cottage Cheese – The mild taste of cottage cheese balances nicely with sweet banana flavors.
6. Smoothie Bowl – A vibrant smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds makes for a colorful, nutritious side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making peanut butter banana bread can be easy, but there are common mistakes that can affect your results.

• Using unripe bananas – Unripe bananas lack the sweetness and moisture needed in banana bread. Always use overripe bananas for the best flavor and texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly – Incorrect flour measurement can lead to dense or dry bread. Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level method for accuracy.
• Skipping the resting time – Allowing the batter to rest before baking can improve texture. Let it sit for about 10 minutes after mixing.
• Overmixing the batter – Overmixing can make the bread tough. Mix just until combined to keep it tender and moist.
• Neglecting to check doneness – Relying solely on baking time can be misleading. Always test with a toothpick to ensure it’s fully baked.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your peanut butter banana bread in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Freezing Peanut Butter Banana Bread

• Wrap slices or whole loaves tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• Frozen banana bread is best consumed within three months for optimal taste.

Reheating Peanut Butter Banana Bread

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes. This keeps the texture nice and soft.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds until warm. Be careful not to overheat, as it may become dry.
• Stovetop – Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making peanut butter banana bread, you’re not alone! Here are some commonly asked ones.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will add texture to your peanut butter banana bread. The taste will remain delicious!

How do I know when my Peanut Butter Banana Bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready.

Can I substitute other nut butters?

Absolutely! Almond or cashew butter can be used instead of peanut butter, offering different flavors while maintaining moisture.

What is the best way to ripen bananas quickly?

To ripen bananas quickly, place them in a brown paper bag at room temperature. This traps ethylene gas, speeding up the ripening process.

How long does Peanut Butter Banana Bread last?

When stored properly, it lasts up to one week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Peanut butter banana bread is a delightful fusion of flavors that everyone will love. It’s moist, tender, and versatile—perfect for breakfast or as a snack! Feel free to customize it with your favorite nuts or chocolate chips for added richness.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Peanut Butter Banana Bread

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the luscious flavors of Peanut Butter Banana Bread, a delightful fusion of sweet bananas and creamy peanut butter. This moist and tender bread is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. With its easy-to-follow recipe, even novice bakers will impress family and friends with this irresistible treat. Customize your loaf with nuts or chocolate chips for added flair, ensuring each slice is a flavorful delight that kids and adults alike will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 1/2 cups mashed overripe bananas (about 3 or 4)
• 1/2 to 2/3 cups chopped nuts (such as pecans, walnuts, hazelnuts, or peanuts)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9" x 5" loaf pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
3. Using an electric mixer, cream together softened butter, brown sugar, and peanut butter until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time and mix in vanilla.
4. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture alternately with sour cream until just combined.
5. Gently fold in mashed bananas (and nuts if using).
6. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50 to 55 minutes until golden brown; a toothpick should come out clean.
7. Cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 75g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 11g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 35mg