Peanut butter banana bread is the ultimate comfort food mashup—a soft, moist loaf infused with ripe banana sweetness and the nutty richness of peanut butter. It’s perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or even dessert. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying something new, this loaf is a must-bake for anyone who loves classic flavors with a twist.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
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Moist and flavorful: The combination of bananas and peanut butter keeps the bread ultra-moist and packed with flavor.
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Easy to make: No mixer required—just a bowl, a whisk, and a few simple steps.
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Perfect for using overripe bananas: A great way to avoid food waste and enjoy something delicious.
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Freezer-friendly: You can bake in batches and freeze slices for later snacking.
Ingredients List
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make peanut butter banana bread:
Dry Ingredients
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1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
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1 tsp baking soda
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
Wet Ingredients
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2–3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
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2 large eggs
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½ cup creamy peanut butter
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½ cup brown sugar, packed
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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⅓ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
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1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Add-Ins
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½ cup chopped peanuts or walnuts
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½ cup chocolate chips
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2 tbsp extra peanut butter for swirling on top
Timing & Servings
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 55–65 minutes
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Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
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Servings: 8–10 slices
Step-by-Step Instructions for Peanut Butter Banana Bread
Step 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.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas with a fork. Add the eggs, peanut butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, oil, and vanilla. Whisk until smooth and well-combined.
Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Gradually stir the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix. If using nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in at this point.
Step 5: Add Swirl (Optional)
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. If desired, spoon 2 tablespoons of peanut butter over the top and swirl it gently with a knife.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover loosely with foil during the last 15 minutes.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Best Results
Use Overripe Bananas
The darker and spottier the bananas, the better the flavor and moisture.
Avoid Overmixing
Stirring too much can make the bread dense. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
Add a Crunchy Topping
Try topping the loaf with chopped peanuts, a sprinkle of oats, or even a streusel for texture.
Variations to Try
Peanut Butter Chocolate Banana Bread
Add ½ cup of chocolate chips and a drizzle of melted chocolate on top before baking.
Peanut Butter Banana Muffins
Divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 18–20 minutes for on-the-go treats.
Gluten-Free Option
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensure your baking soda is gluten-free.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
How to Store
Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
How to Freeze
Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or microwave a slice for 20–30 seconds.
What to Serve with Peanut Butter Banana Bread
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A glass of cold milk or almond milk
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A cup of hot coffee or tea
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Spread of butter or additional peanut butter
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Dollop of Greek yogurt and fresh fruit
Making It Healthier
Reduce Sugar
Use ¼ cup of honey or maple syrup in place of the sugar for a more natural sweetness.
Add Whole Grains
Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for extra fiber.
Use Greek Yogurt
Swap the oil for Greek yogurt to cut down on fat and increase protein.
Baking Tools You’ll Need
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Mixing bowls
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Whisk and rubber spatula
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Measuring cups and spoons
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9×5-inch loaf pan
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Parchment paper (optional)
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Wire cooling rack
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Bread is Too Dense
Most likely caused by overmixing or using too much flour. Be gentle with the batter.
Bread is Dry
Try reducing the baking time slightly or covering with foil if the top browns too quickly.
Loaf Didn’t Rise
Check the freshness of your baking soda. Also, ensure you’re using the correct flour measurements.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but stir it well before using. Natural peanut butter is oilier and can affect texture slightly.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes. Use flax eggs, plant-based milk, and a vegan butter substitute or oil.
What’s the best way to ripen bananas quickly?
Place bananas in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes, until the skins turn black and the flesh softens.
Can I make it into muffins?
Definitely! Reduce baking time to around 18–20 minutes for muffins.
Conclusion
Peanut butter banana bread is a heartwarming treat that brings together the classic comfort of banana bread with the nutty depth of peanut butter. It’s simple, delicious, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re baking for brunch, a snack, or dessert, this loaf will win over everyone who takes a bite.