What do you get when you marry America’s favorite candy with one of its most iconic comfort foods? The answer is this decadent, dreamy Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread.
This recipe was born out of one of those kitchen experiments gone wildly right. A couple of ripe bananas sat too long on the counter, and a bag of chopped Reese’s called to me from the pantry. The result? A moist, flavorful banana bread studded with peanut butter chocolate bliss that quickly became a family favorite.
Whether it’s a rainy day, a potluck treat, or just because you deserve it—this loaf brings the cozy nostalgia of banana bread with a bold, candy-kissed upgrade.
Why You’ll Love This Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread
- Moist, sweet, and loaded with peanut butter flavor
- A creative way to use overripe bananas
- Perfect balance of salty-sweet chocolate and banana
- Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or gifting
- A fun recipe for holidays, back-to-school, or bake sales
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe makes 8 thick slices of soft, gooey banana bread:
Wet Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients:
- 1½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
Mix-Ins:
- 1 cup chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
- ¼ cup peanut butter chips (optional, but highly recommended)
Optional Toppings:
- Extra Reese’s chunks or a peanut butter drizzle
- Chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for crunch
Tip: You can use creamy peanut butter to swirl into the batter or top the loaf before baking for extra richness.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Loaf pan (8×4 or 9×5 inch)
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Cooling rack
How to Make Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line your loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash the bananas with a fork. Add sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla. Whisk until smooth and combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly fold the dry mixture into the wet batter until just combined.
Step 4: Add the Good Stuff
Gently fold in the chopped Reese’s and peanut butter chips. Reserve a handful of each to sprinkle on top.
Step 5: Pour & Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Top with extra candy pieces. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean (a little chocolate smudge is OK!).
Let the loaf cool for 10 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips for Perfect Banana Bread
- Use very ripe bananas: The blacker the peel, the sweeter and softer the fruit.
- Don’t overmix: Stir gently until just combined to keep the bread tender.
- Watch the bake time: All ovens vary—start checking at 50 minutes.
- Cool before slicing: Warm bread may crumble; patience pays off.
Delicious Variations
PB&J Banana Bread
Swirl in raspberry jam with the batter and top with crushed peanuts.
Reese’s Banana Muffins
Bake in muffin tins for 18–20 minutes. Great for portion control and freezing!
Double Chocolate Banana Bread
Add ¼ cup cocoa powder and swap peanut butter chips for dark chocolate chips.
Crunchy Peanut Butter Twist
Use crunchy peanut butter instead of chips for texture and extra nutty flavor.
Perfect for Every Season
Winter
Serve warm with hot cocoa or coffee. Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for holiday flair.
Summer
Slice, chill, and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cold milk.
All-Year Comfort
Perfect for school lunchboxes, road trip snacks, or cozy Netflix nights.
Nutrition Facts (per slice)
- Calories: ~340
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 39g
- Sugar: 23g
- Protein: 5g
This recipe leans into indulgence—just how it should be.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
How to Store
- Room temperature: Up to 3 days in an airtight container
- Fridge: Up to 1 week
- Freezer: Up to 3 months (wrap slices individually)
Reheating
Microwave slices for 15–20 seconds for that just-baked warmth and gooey center.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes—but it’s runnier, so reduce the oil slightly or avoid swirling.
Can I substitute oil with butter?
Yes, melted butter works and adds rich flavor. Use the same measurement (½ cup).
Can I make this gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute—results may vary slightly in texture.
Can I use mini Reese’s?
Absolutely! They melt in beautifully and make every bite magical.