Peanut Butter Banana Bread Recipe: Moist, Protein-Packed, and Full of Flavor

Banana bread is a timeless comfort treat, but adding peanut butter takes it to a whole new level. This peanut butter banana bread recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich, nutty depth of peanut butter for a loaf that’s soft, moist, and incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert, and it’s a great way to use overripe bananas sitting on your counter.

Why Peanut Butter and Banana Make a Perfect Match

The combination of banana and peanut butter is not just delicious but also balanced. Bananas bring natural sweetness, fiber, and moisture, while peanut butter adds protein, healthy fats, and a creamy texture. When baked together, they create a bread that’s tender, flavorful, and more filling than traditional banana bread.

This recipe is especially ideal for those looking to add more protein to their diet without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re a peanut butter lover or simply want a new twist on a classic recipe, this banana bread will become a go-to in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses common pantry staples and requires no mixer. Here’s everything you’ll need:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (unsweetened preferred)
• 1/3 cup melted butter or coconut oil
• 1/2 cup brown sugar or coconut sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 cup milk or non-dairy milk (if batter is too thick)

Optional add-ins:

• 1/2 cup chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup chopped peanuts or walnuts
• Drizzle of extra peanut butter on top before baking

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas using a fork until smooth. The more ripe your bananas are, the better the flavor and moisture.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
To the mashed bananas, add peanut butter, melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon if using. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. If the batter feels too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it slightly.

Step 5: Add Optional Mix-Ins
Fold in any extras like chocolate chips or chopped nuts. This step is optional, but it adds extra flavor and texture.

Step 6: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top and, if desired, swirl in a spoonful of peanut butter over the surface for a decorative finish.

Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes.

Cooling and Serving

Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps prevent sogginess and allows the crumb to set. Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature.

This bread is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a bit of extra peanut butter or a drizzle of honey.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic and placed in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat gently in the toaster or microwave before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Protein-rich thanks to peanut butter and eggs
• No mixer needed and just one bowl for easy cleanup
• Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas and optional unrefined sugar
• Customizable with mix-ins like chocolate, nuts, or seeds
• Moist and flavorful without being overly dense or greasy

Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the base, you can experiment with these creative twists:

• Gluten-Free Version using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend
• Vegan Banana Bread by replacing eggs with flax eggs and using plant-based milk and butter
• Peanut Butter Swirl Muffins by dividing the batter into muffin tins and adding a swirl of peanut butter on top
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread by mixing in cocoa powder with the dry ingredients

Final Thoughts

Peanut butter banana bread is a delicious upgrade to a classic recipe. It’s easy to make, full of nutrients, and incredibly satisfying for both adults and kids. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a post-workout snack, or with your afternoon coffee, this moist and nutty loaf is a great way to add a little indulgence to your day without going overboard. Try it once, and it might just become your new favorite banana bread recipe.