Are you ready to elevate your banana bread game? This peanut butter banana bread recipe combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the creamy richness of peanut butter, resulting in a moist and flavorful loaf. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon snack, this recipe is simple and satisfying. Let’s get started on this delicious journey!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 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)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 1 loaf, serving approximately 10 slices. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 60 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 180 calories, 7g of fat, 27g of carbohydrates, 2g of fiber, and 4g of protein.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
- Add the peanut butter and melted butter to the mashed bananas.
- Mix in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently.
- If desired, fold in chopped nuts for added texture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the peanut butter with almond butter or any nut butter of your choice. For a healthier option, consider using honey instead of sugar, or you can replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Serving and Pairings
This peanut butter banana bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also enjoy it with a spread of additional peanut butter or your favorite fruit preserves for added flavor.
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. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm it in the microwave.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using overripe bananas can make the bread too mushy.
- Don’t skip greasing the pan; otherwise, the bread may stick.
- Mixing too vigorously can create a dense texture.
- Ensure the baking soda is fresh for proper rising.
- Do not open the oven door frequently while baking.
Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
- Try adding chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Experiment with spices like cinnamon for added flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, frozen bananas work well! Thaw and mash them before adding to the mixture. They may be a bit wetter, so adjust the flour if needed.
How do I know when the banana bread is done?
The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it’s still wet, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Can I make mini loaves instead?
Absolutely! You can divide the batter into mini loaf pans and reduce the baking time to about 30-35 minutes.
What can I do with leftover banana bread?
Leftover banana bread can be toasted and served with butter, or used to make French toast for a delicious breakfast treat.
How should I store banana bread?
Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Conclusion
This peanut butter banana bread recipe is not only simple but also incredibly flavorful. Its moist texture and rich taste make it a favorite among family and friends. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted the next day, it promises to delight your taste buds. Give it a try, and you won’t be disappointed!
Peanut Butter Banana Bread
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 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 mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
- Add the peanut butter and melted butter to the mashed bananas.
- Mix in the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently.
- If desired, fold in chopped nuts for added texture.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
