The Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. This bread is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Its unique texture and flavor make it a standout choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of peanut butter and Reese’s Pieces creates a deliciously sweet and nutty taste.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy it warm with butter, as a dessert, or even toasted with a spread.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids will love the fun colorful candy pieces mixed throughout the bread.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make it in advance and store it for an easy grab-and-go snack throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into baking, it’s essential to gather your tools. Having everything ready ensures a smooth process from start to finish.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Loaf pan (8.5×4.5 inches)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Loaf pan: The right size ensures even cooking and helps maintain the shape of your bread.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to mix wet and dry ingredients separately, ensuring better incorporation.
- Microwave-safe bowl: Perfect for melting ingredients like peanut butter without burning.
Ingredients
For the Bread:
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 cup Reese’s Pieces candy
For the Glaze:
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
How to Make Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your bread bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan
Grease your 8.5×4.5 inch loaf pan thoroughly to prevent sticking once your bread is baked.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, beat together the creamy peanut butter and sugar until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add in the egg and melted butter, mixing well. Then incorporate the mashed bananas into the mixture until fully blended.
Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients
Sift in the flour and baking powder into your mixture. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Fold in Candy
Gently fold in the Reese’s Pieces candy, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake for about 45 minutes to 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool Down
Once baked, remove the loaf from the pan and let it cool on a wire rack before glazing.
Step 9: Prepare the Glaze
In a microwave-safe bowl, whisk together peanut butter, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth. Microwave in intervals of 30 seconds, stirring each time until heated through.
Step 10: Drizzle Over Loaf
Drizzle the glaze over your cooled banana bread for an extra layer of sweetness before serving!
How to Serve Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread
Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a breakfast option or a sweet snack, this bread is versatile and sure to please everyone.
For Breakfast
- Toast with Butter: Serve warm slices with a pat of butter for a rich and creamy start to your morning.
- Nutty Spread: Spread additional peanut butter on top for an extra boost of flavor and protein.
As a Snack
- With Fresh Fruit: Pair slices with bananas or strawberries for a refreshing contrast.
- Ice Cream Sandwich: Use two slices to create an ice cream sandwich, adding your favorite flavor for a fun dessert.
For Dessert
- Topped with Glaze: Drizzle the homemade glaze over the bread for added sweetness.
- Serve with Coffee: Enjoy a slice alongside your favorite coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
How to Perfect Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread
Perfecting your Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread can elevate this delicious recipe. Here are some tips to ensure you get the best results every time.
- Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that all ingredients, especially eggs and butter, are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Don’t Overmix Batter: Gently fold in ingredients to avoid tough bread; mix until just combined.
- Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking conditions; ovens can vary in temperature.
- Cool Properly: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to prevent sogginess.
Best Side Dishes for Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread
Pairing side dishes with your Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options that complement its rich flavors.
- Greek Yogurt: A creamy serving of Greek yogurt adds tanginess and pairs well with sweet banana bread.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad will brighten up your plate and add vibrant colors along with refreshing flavors.
- Honey Drizzled Ricotta: Spread ricotta cheese on the bread and drizzle honey on top for a deliciously decadent experience.
- Chia Seed Pudding: A light chia pudding offers a nutritious contrast and makes for an attractive presentation alongside the bread.
- Granola Parfait: Layer granola with yogurt and fruit in a glass for a satisfying crunch that complements the soft texture of the banana bread.
- Herbal Tea: Serve slices of banana bread with soothing herbal tea like chamomile or mint for relaxation and enjoyment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can sometimes be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when making Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread.
- Boldly skip the preheating: Not preheating your oven can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat to ensure your bread cooks evenly.
- Ignoring banana ripeness: Using under-ripe bananas may result in a less sweet bread. Choose overripe bananas for maximum flavor and sweetness.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make the bread dense. Mix until just combined for a lighter texture.
- Neglecting the cooling time: Cutting into the bread too soon can cause it to crumble. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack for better slices.
- Not measuring ingredients properly: Incorrect measurements can alter the texture and taste. Use proper measuring tools for accuracy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep it at room temperature if you plan to consume within 2 days.
Freezing Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread
- Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm throughout.
- Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for about 15-20 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread?
Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread is a delicious quick bread combining ripe bananas, creamy peanut butter, and sweet Reese’s Pieces candy, creating a delightful treat.
How do I store Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate it for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze it tightly wrapped.
Can I customize this recipe?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, use different candies, or substitute with other nut butters like almond or cashew butter for unique flavors.
Is this bread suitable for breakfast?
Yes! This bread makes a tasty breakfast option or snack. Its combination of flavors provides energy and satisfaction any time of day.
How long does it take to make?
The total time from prep to baking is about 1 hour and 40 minutes, making it a relatively quick recipe for a homemade treat.
Final Thoughts
Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread offers a delightful mix of flavors that everyone will enjoy. It’s perfect as a snack or dessert and allows plenty of room for customization. Try adding your favorite nuts or different candies to make it truly your own!
Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread, a scrumptious treat that combines the creamy goodness of peanut butter with sweet, ripe bananas and colorful candy pieces. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, making it a versatile addition to any meal. With its rich texture and irresistible taste, this banana bread is sure to be a hit among family and friends. Whether served warm with a pat of butter or drizzled with a sweet peanut butter glaze, it’s an enjoyable treat for all occasions.
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 large egg
- 2 large ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 cup Reese's Pieces candy
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8.5×4.5-inch loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and sugar until well blended.
- Add the egg and melted butter; mix thoroughly before incorporating the mashed bananas.
- Sift in flour and baking powder; stir gently until just combined.
- Fold in the Reese's Pieces candy evenly throughout the batter.
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cooling on a wire rack before glazing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 195
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: For added flavor, try using different nut butters or mix in chopped nuts along with the candy. Ensure your bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor.