Are you ready to elevate your banana bread game? This peanut butter banana bread recipe is a scrumptious blend of creamy peanut butter and ripe bananas, creating a moist, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. With simple ingredients and an easy process, you’ll have a delicious, homemade bread that will impress your family and friends. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 cup sugar (or brown sugar)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 8 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 60 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately:
– Calories: 200
– Protein: 4g
– Fat: 8g
– Carbohydrates: 32g
– Fiber: 2g
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
- Add the melted butter to the mashed bananas and mix well.
- Stir in the peanut butter until fully combined.
- Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the mixture and mix until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined.
- If using, fold in the chopped nuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute almond butter for peanut butter for a nut-free option. Additionally, you can use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a healthier sweetener.
Serving and Pairings
This peanut butter banana bread is delightful on its own but pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also serve it with fresh fruit or yogurt for a complete breakfast.
Storage and Reheating
Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the batter can make the bread tough.
- Not using ripe bananas will result in less sweetness.
- Forgetting to grease the pan may cause sticking.
- Baking at too high a temperature can burn the outside.
- Not checking for doneness can lead to undercooked bread.
Helpful Tips
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a rack.
- For an added touch, drizzle melted chocolate on top.
- Experiment with adding chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, natural peanut butter can be used, but it may affect the bread’s texture slightly due to its oil content.
How do I know when the banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bread is done.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.
How long does this bread last?
When stored properly, it can last up to 3 days at room temperature or 3 months in the freezer.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Yes, adding chocolate chips is a great way to enhance the flavor. Just fold them into the batter before baking.
Conclusion
This peanut butter banana bread recipe is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and banana in a moist, delicious loaf. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the bake and savor each slice!
Peanut Butter Banana Bread
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas mashed
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
- Add the melted butter to the mashed bananas and mix well.
- Stir in the peanut butter until fully combined.
- Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the mixture and mix until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined.
- If using, fold in the chopped nuts.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
