Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread is a delightful treat that combines the creamy goodness of peanut butter with the sweetness of ripe bananas. This unique bread is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack any time of day. With its colorful burst of Reese’s Pieces candy, it adds a fun twist to traditional banana bread. This recipe is not only simple but also versatile enough to impress guests at brunch or to enjoy with your morning coffee.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 10 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy bakers.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of peanut butter and banana creates a rich flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
• Fun and Colorful: The addition of Reese’s Pieces adds a playful touch and makes this bread visually appealing.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm, toasted, or drizzled with glaze for an extra treat.
• Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for potlucks or gatherings, this bread will surely be a crowd-pleaser.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread, having the right tools can make all the difference in your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Whisk
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: A good quality loaf pan ensures even baking and helps give your bread the ideal shape.
• Mixing bowls: Using various sizes makes it easier to mix ingredients without spilling.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your bread.

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.

Step 2: Prepare the Pan

Grease an 8.5 x 4.5 inch loaf pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
1. Beat together the peanut butter and sugar until well combined.
2. Add in the egg and melted butter; mix well.
3. Stir in the mashed bananas until evenly incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Next:
1. Sift together flour and baking powder into the mixture.
2. Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing.

Step 5: Add Reese’s Pieces

Gently fold in the Reese’s Pieces candy into your batter.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan:
1. Spread evenly using a spatula.
2. Bake in preheated oven for 45 minutes to 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool

Once baked, remove from the pan and let cool on a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare Glaze

For the glaze:
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth.
2. Microwave for 30 seconds; stir and repeat in additional 30-second intervals until heated through.

Step 9: Drizzle Glaze Over Bread

Finally, drizzle the warm glaze over your cooled banana bread before slicing and serving.

Enjoy every bite of your delicious Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread!

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 you’re serving it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these suggestions will enhance your experience.

With Creamy Spread

• Cream Cheese: Spread a layer of cream cheese for added creaminess and a tangy flavor.
• Nut Butter: Top with almond or cashew butter for a nutty twist.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: Drizzle honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.

As a Dessert

• Ice Cream: Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.
• Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle melted chocolate sauce on top for an indulgent treat.
• Whipped Cream: Add whipped cream as a light topping to balance the flavors.

Breakfast Option

• Yogurt Parfait: Layer slices with yogurt and fresh fruits for a nutritious breakfast.
• Smoothie Bowl: Blend leftover banana bread into a smoothie bowl topped with fruits and granola.

How to Perfect Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Perfecting your Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread takes just a few simple tweaks. Follow these tips to achieve the best results.

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and moister your bread will be.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Accurate measurements ensure the perfect texture and flavor balance.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
• Cool Completely Before Slicing: Allow the bread to cool fully on a wire rack to avoid gummy slices.

Best Side Dishes for Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread

Pairing your Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread with side dishes enhances its flavor and makes for a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the bread.
2. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal complements the banana flavors while providing hearty nutrition.
3. Greek Yogurt: Creamy Greek yogurt adds protein and tang, making it a perfect side.
4. Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy pudding offers texture and is rich in nutrients, pairing well with banana bread.
5. Granola: Crunchy granola can be sprinkled on top of yogurt or eaten on its own as a crunchy side.
6. Cottage Cheese: A serving of cottage cheese provides protein and pairs nicely with sweet flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind:

• Bold measurement errors: Always double-check your ingredient measurements. Using too much or too little can alter the texture and taste of the bread.

• Bold neglecting ripe bananas: Using unripe bananas can lead to a less sweet and flavorful bread. Opt for very ripe bananas for the best results.

• Bold overmixing the batter: Stirring too much can result in dense bread. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.

• Bold skipping the cooling time: Don’t rush to slice the bread immediately after baking. Allow it to cool on a wire rack to avoid a gummy texture.

• Bold ignoring the baking time: Every oven is different, so check for doneness early. Adjust baking time as needed based on your specific oven.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Keeps well for up to 5 days.

Freezing Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
• Bold Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for about 15-20 seconds.
• Bold Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread:

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead?

Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will add texture and enhance flavor, making it even more delightful!

How do I know when my banana bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread is ready!

What can I substitute for Reese’s Pieces candy?

You can use other chocolate candies or chopped nuts if you want an alternative mix-in while still keeping it delicious.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, substitute flax eggs for the egg and use plant-based butter for a vegan version of this tasty bread.

Final Thoughts

Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread is an irresistible treat that blends sweet and savory flavors perfectly. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize with different mix-ins like nuts or alternate candies. Give it a try and enjoy every bite!