Peanut Butter Banana Bread
Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Recipes
Peanut Butter Banana Bread is a deliciously moist and flavorful treat that combines the richness of peanut butter with the sweetness of ripe bananas.
Peanut Butter Banana Bread is not only a delightful way to use up overripe bananas, but it also adds a creamy twist with the addition of peanut butter. This recipe is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich peanut butter flavor that complements the natural sweetness of bananas
- Moist and tender crumb that makes every bite irresistible
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy mornings
The Perfect Blend of Flavors
Peanut Butter Banana Bread offers a unique twist on the classic banana bread recipe. The combination of rich peanut butter and naturally sweet ripe bananas creates a harmonious blend of flavors that is both comforting and satisfying. Every bite brings a delightful contrast of textures, from the creamy peanut butter to the soft, moist banana. This recipe elevates traditional banana bread, making it a standout treat for breakfast or a midday snack.
The use of both regular and brown sugar in this recipe not only enhances the sweetness but also adds depth to the flavor profile. Brown sugar contributes a hint of caramel notes, which pairs beautifully with the nutty taste of peanut butter. This thoughtful combination ensures that your banana bread is not only delicious but also memorable.
Why This Recipe is Ideal for Busy Days
In our fast-paced world, finding time to bake can seem like a luxury. However, this Peanut Butter Banana Bread is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy mornings. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious loaf ready to enjoy in under an hour. This makes it an ideal option for those hectic days when you need a nutritious breakfast on the go.
Moreover, this banana bread is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruit for an extra touch. This adaptability means that you can experiment with different flavors while keeping the core recipe simple and straightforward. Whether you are in a rush or have a little more time to spare, this recipe fits seamlessly into your routine.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Once your Peanut Butter Banana Bread has cooled, it's important to store it properly to maintain its delicious moisture and flavor. Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider slicing the bread and freezing individual pieces. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever you crave a tasty treat without the need for any further baking.
When it comes to serving, there are endless possibilities! Enjoy your banana bread plain, or spread a little extra peanut butter on top for an added punch of flavor. You can also serve it with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness. Pairing the bread with a cup of coffee or tea makes for a delightful afternoon snack or breakfast option that is sure to please.
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
Make sure to use ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness!
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, peanut butter, sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Pour into Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep the bread fresh.
Health Benefits of Peanut Butter and Bananas
Both peanut butter and bananas offer a range of health benefits that make this banana bread a wholesome choice. Peanut butter is rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals, making it a great addition to your diet. It can help keep you feeling fuller for longer, making it an excellent choice for breakfast or a snack.
Bananas, on the other hand, are packed with potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. They provide natural sweetness without the need for excessive added sugars, making this bread a healthier alternative to many store-bought options. The combination of these two ingredients creates a delicious treat that also contributes to your overall nutritional needs.
Variations to Try
While the classic Peanut Butter Banana Bread is delightful on its own, feel free to get creative! Consider adding a half-cup of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added crunch and flavor. Chocolate lovers can throw in a handful of chocolate chips to elevate the sweetness and indulgence of this already delicious bread.
For a hint of spice, add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. This will enhance the flavor and provide a warm aroma as it bakes. You can also experiment with different types of nut butter, such as almond or cashew, for a unique twist on the recipe.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter will add a nice texture to the bread!
→ How do I store leftover banana bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze this banana bread?
Yes, you can freeze the banana bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
→ What can I use instead of eggs?
You can substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce if you're looking for an egg-free version.
Peanut Butter Banana Bread
Peanut Butter Banana Bread is a deliciously moist and flavorful treat that combines the richness of peanut butter with the sweetness of ripe bananas.
Created by: Emily Carter
Recipe Type: Sweet Baking Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
For the Banana Bread
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, peanut butter, sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 15g
- Protein: 8g