Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Two perennial favorites combine to create this moist, tender Peanut Butter Banana Bread. It’s easy to make and impossible to resist! Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this recipe showcases the delightful combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet banana. The bread is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to enjoy it in various ways.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward with minimal prep time, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of ripe bananas and creamy peanut butter creates a rich, moist texture that everyone will love.
• Versatile Options: Add your favorite nuts or even chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy brunch or a lunchbox treat, this banana bread fits right in.
• Freezes Well: You can easily store leftovers in the freezer for a quick snack later.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth, you’ll need some essential tools. These items will help you achieve the best results in creating your delicious peanut butter banana bread.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Loaf pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool makes it easy to cream together the butter, sugar, and peanut butter until fluffy.
• Loaf pan: A good-quality loaf pan ensures even baking and helps your bread maintain its shape.

Ingredients

For the Bread

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

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 easier removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl:
* Whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

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

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

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

Step 5: Fold in Bananas

Gently stir in the mashed bananas using a rubber spatula. If desired:
* Fold in chopped nuts for added texture.

Step 6: Bake

Spread the batter evenly into the 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

Remove from the oven and cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 10 minutes. Then transfer the bread directly onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your delicious 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 prefer it plain or with toppings, there are plenty of serving suggestions to suit your taste.

Toasted with Butter

• Spread a thin layer of butter on warm slices for a rich, creamy flavor that enhances the taste of the bread.

With Fresh Fruit

• Add sliced bananas or berries on top for a burst of freshness and a colorful presentation.

Pair with Yogurt

• Serve a slice alongside a bowl of your favorite yogurt, creating a perfect balance between sweet and tangy flavors.

Drizzled with Honey

• A light drizzle of honey adds extra sweetness, making each bite even more irresistible.

Accompanied by Nuts

• Garnish with chopped nuts for added crunch and texture. This complements the soft banana bread beautifully.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter Banana Bread

To achieve the perfect peanut butter banana bread, follow these simple tips. They enhance flavor and texture while ensuring the bread turns out moist and delicious.

• Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for optimal taste.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the bread tender. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.

• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center to check if it’s done. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready!

• Cool Properly: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its shape and prevents sogginess.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Pairing side dishes with your peanut butter banana bread can elevate your meal experience. Here are some tasty options that complement its flavors well.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of the bread.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a satisfying breakfast option.
3. Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy pudding brings an extra dose of nutrition and pairs well with the sweetness of banana bread.
4. Nut Butter Spread: Enhance each slice by adding different nut butters like almond or cashew for unique flavors.
5. Smoothie Bowl: A refreshing smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds goes perfectly as a side dish.
6. Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea provides a soothing contrast to the sweet flavors in peanut butter banana bread.
7. Milk or Plant-Based Milk: Enjoying your slice with cold milk or almond milk creates a classic pairing that many love.
8. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal drizzled with honey can serve as an excellent start to your day alongside banana bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making peanut butter banana bread is simple, but avoiding common mistakes can elevate your baking.

• Skipping the Overripe Bananas: Using unripe bananas will lead to a less sweet and flavorful bread. Always use overripe bananas for the best results.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, and improper measurements can ruin the texture of your bread. Always use measuring cups and spoons.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can make the bread dense and tough. Mix just until combined for a lighter texture.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Every oven is different; if your oven runs hot or cold, it may affect baking time. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
• Not Testing for Doneness: Relying solely on time can be misleading. Always check with a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean when done.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap for easy grabbing.

Freezing Peanut Butter Banana Bread

• Slice the bread before freezing for convenience.
• Use a freezer-safe bag or container; it can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Peanut Butter Banana Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat slices for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Peanut Butter Banana Bread.

Can I make Peanut Butter Banana Bread without eggs?

Yes, you can use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute or try applesauce for moisture.

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

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready!

What can I add to Peanut Butter Banana Bread?

You can customize your bread by adding chocolate chips, dried fruits, or seeds for extra texture.

How do I prevent my Peanut Butter Banana Bread from sticking?

Make sure to grease your loaf pan well or line it with parchment paper before pouring in the batter.

Final Thoughts

This Peanut Butter Banana Bread recipe combines two beloved flavors into one delightful treat. Its versatility allows you to customize it with nuts or chocolate chips, making it perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Try this easy recipe today and enjoy a slice of moist deliciousness!

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: Alexia
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors with this Peanut Butter Banana Bread. This moist and tender loaf blends the richness of creamy peanut butter with the natural sweetness of overripe bananas, making it an irresistible treat for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Customize it with your favorite nuts or chocolate chips for an extra burst of flavor! Plus, it stores beautifully in the freezer, allowing you to enjoy a slice whenever a craving strikes.

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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 banana (about 3 or 4 medium bananas)
• Optional: 1/2 to 2/3 cups chopped nuts

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9" x 5" loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter with brown sugar and peanut butter until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture alternately with sour cream until just combined. Gently fold in mashed bananas and optional chopped nuts.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for about 50 to 55 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Allow cooling in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 11g
• Sodium: 160mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 30mg