Pin This peanut butter banana bread is your answer to using up extra ripe bananas while bringing a nutty, nostalgic spin to classic banana bread. Moist and tender inside with a mellow richness from creamy peanut butter, it’s the kind of quick bake that fills the kitchen with a cozy aroma and leaves friends asking for seconds.
The first time I baked this was after an especially busy week when I needed comfort food I could also pack in school lunches. It’s become my go-to whenever I want a little something extra from my banana bread.
Ingredients
- Ripe bananas: The riper the bananas the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be Choose fruits heavily speckled or even mostly brown
- Large eggs: Bind the bread and give it just the right amount of lift Choose fresh eggs for the fluffiest crumb
- Creamy peanut butter: This adds both richness and a distinct nutty aroma Use a smooth peanut butter for best blending
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter brings moistness and buttery flavor Opt for high quality unsalted for full flavor control
- Light brown sugar: Adds deep sweetness and moisture Lightly pack your measuring cup for accurate amounts
- Pure vanilla extract: Lends warmth and rounds out the flavors Go for real extract for the richest finish
- All-purpose flour: Supplies the structure Sift or fluff before measuring for light bread
- Baking soda and baking powder: Both are needed for proper rise Always check they are fresh for a good lift
- Salt and ground cinnamon: Salt sharpens all the flavors while cinnamon gives that gentle spice measure carefully
- Chopped roasted peanuts or chocolate chips: These are optional for an extra hit of texture and flavor Choose fresh peanuts or good quality chocolate for the best bite
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Grease and flour a nine by five inch loaf pan or line with parchment ensuring all sides are well covered This prevents sticking and helps for easy removal
- Mash and Whisk Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl combine the mashed bananas eggs creamy peanut butter melted butter brown sugar and vanilla extract Whisk until the mixture is very smooth and cohesive This step ensures even sweetness and moisture throughout
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl whisk together the all purpose flour baking soda baking powder salt and cinnamon Mixing these separately means leaveners are well distributed
- Combine Wet and Dry:
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture Use a spatula to fold gently until no streaks of flour remain Try not to overmix so your bread comes out light and tender
- Add Optional Mix Ins:
- If using chopped roasted peanuts or chocolate chips fold them in gently until they are evenly dispersed Holding back a few to sprinkle on top adds a beautiful touch
- Fill the Pan:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top with your spatula This makes for even baking and a professional finish
- Bake:
- Place in the preheated oven and bake for fifty to fifty five minutes Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs
- Cool and Slice:
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about ten minutes before lifting onto a wire rack Let it cool completely Slice only when fully cooled for clean delicious pieces
Pin My favorite part is watching swirls of peanut butter caramelize on top while baking. Once my daughter tried it warm from the oven she declared it the best after school treat ever—now it is our weekend baking tradition.
Storage Tips
Keep your banana bread stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness wrap individual slices well in plastic or foil and freeze. It thaws quickly and makes a fantastic grab and go breakfast or snack.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap creamy peanut butter for almond butter or sunflower seed butter if you prefer another nutty profile. Out of brown sugar Use half white sugar and add a tablespoon of molasses for depth. For a dairy free version substitute the butter with a neutral oil or plant based butter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve thick slices warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. It pairs beautifully with morning coffee or as a base for an elevated dessert topped with vanilla ice cream and a scatter of roasted peanuts.
Cultural and Historical Context
Banana bread as a staple quick bread became popular during the Great Depression when wasting food was not an option. Adding peanut butter in modern recipes brings an American classic twist celebrating the much loved PB and banana combo.
Seasonal Adaptations
In summer try stirring in fresh blueberries with the bananas for a juicy note In fall mix in chopped apples or a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice For winter comfort serve toasted with hot chocolate for a school holiday treat
Success Stories
Many have messaged saying this recipe helped save bananas on their last legs and now their families will not eat any other banana bread. Kids love customizing each loaf with different add ins—it always disappears fast at bake sales.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Bake and cool the loaf completely before slicing and wrapping each piece. Store slices in a freezer bag labeled with date. It keeps best for up to two months. Perfect for portioned grab and go school snacks or unexpected guests.
Pin Enjoy your delicious homemade peanut butter banana bread. It’s a versatile treat perfect for any occasion.
Recipe Q&A
- → How ripe should the bananas be?
Bananas should be deeply speckled or mostly brown for maximum sweetness and moist texture.
- → Can I substitute crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter adds a bit of texture, but creamy creates a smoother result.
- → Is it possible to make it dairy-free?
Substitute the melted butter with a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version.
- → Can I use whole wheat flour?
Whole wheat flour can replace half of the all-purpose flour, but expect a slightly denser loaf.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Keep tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze individual slices for later.
- → What mix-ins work well?
Roasted peanuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruit all make enticing additions for variety.