The rich, moist texture of this Peanut Butter Banana Bread makes it stand out from your typical banana loaf. The blend of creamy peanut butter and ripe bananas creates a nostalgic flavor that feels like a warm hug. This is the perfect recipe for cozy weekends, family brunches, or even as a quick grab-and-go breakfast.
You’ll love how simple it is to make — no mixer required, and everything comes together in one bowl. Plus, it’s versatile. Toss in some chocolate chips, a sprinkle of chopped peanuts, or enjoy it plain. This bread gets even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead option for busy weeks. One bite, and you’ll be hooked on this peanut butter twist to a classic favorite.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
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½ teaspoon baking soda
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¼ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
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⅓ cup creamy peanut butter
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½ cup granulated sugar
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¼ cup light brown sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
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3 ripe bananas, mashed
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½ cup sour cream
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Optional: ½ cup chopped peanuts or chocolate chips
Directions:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
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In a large bowl, combine melted butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Whisk until smooth.
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Add eggs and vanilla extract to the wet mixture and mix until fully combined.
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Stir in mashed bananas and sour cream until incorporated.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing.
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Fold in chopped peanuts or chocolate chips if using.
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Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
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Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 10 slices
The Magic of Peanut Butter Banana Bread
Peanut Butter Banana Bread brings together two beloved flavors in one comforting, tender loaf. This delicious combination is not just a treat for your taste buds—it also fills your home with the most inviting, nostalgic aroma that instantly reminds you of warm kitchens and cozy afternoons. The blend of creamy peanut butter with sweet, ripe bananas creates a moist, rich texture that feels like a cross between cake and traditional quick bread.
What makes this loaf so appealing is how simple and accessible the ingredients are. Ripe bananas, a pantry staple, become even more valuable when they’ve passed their prime for snacking. Peanut butter, with its nutty depth, complements banana’s natural sweetness, turning a humble loaf into something truly special. Whether you’re baking this for your family, guests, or just as a personal indulgence, it’s a recipe that never disappoints.
Why This Bread is a Favorite for All Ages
Peanut Butter Banana Bread is universally loved because it offers a familiar flavor profile with a fun twist. Banana bread is already a comfort food classic, but the addition of peanut butter gives it extra richness and an unmistakable, nutty character. Kids enjoy it because it tastes like a treat, and adults love it for its simplicity and satisfying flavor.
It’s also a great recipe to get creative with. Add-ins like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a swirl of jam can transform the loaf and add variety to each batch. For those with dietary needs, it’s easy to substitute certain ingredients—use a dairy-free butter or sour cream alternative to make it suitable for lactose-intolerant folks, or choose a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
Texture and Taste: What to Expect
This bread is incredibly moist thanks to both the mashed bananas and sour cream, while the peanut butter adds a soft density and depth of flavor that lingers with each bite. It’s not overly sweet, which allows the nutty undertones to shine through. The exterior develops a slight crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior. Each slice holds together well, making it perfect for slicing, toasting, or enjoying warm right out of the oven.
Whether served as-is or with a touch of butter or honey, it delivers a perfect balance between sweet and savory. The combination of peanut butter and banana also brings out natural umami tones, making this loaf deeply satisfying without needing frosting or glaze.
Perfect for Any Time of Day
One of the best things about Peanut Butter Banana Bread is its versatility. It works well as a breakfast item, a snack, or even dessert. Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or tea for a quick breakfast. Serve it as an afternoon snack for the kids with a cold glass of milk, or pack it for lunch. You can even dress it up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a simple dessert after dinner.
It also holds up beautifully for several days, making it ideal for meal prep or make-ahead situations. In fact, many people find that banana bread tastes even better the next day, after the flavors have had time to settle and deepen.
Storage and Freezing Tips
Peanut Butter Banana Bread stores very well, whether you want to enjoy it over a few days or save some for later. Once the loaf has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place the wrapped loaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
To freeze, wrap individual slices or the entire loaf in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag. Label it with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, let it thaw at room temperature or pop it in the microwave or toaster oven for a quick warm-up.
Make It Your Own: Variations to Try
One of the joys of baking is putting your own twist on classic recipes. With Peanut Butter Banana Bread, there’s endless potential for customization:
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Chocolate Chips: Add a ½ cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a richer, dessert-style loaf.
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Swirled Jam: Add a few dollops of strawberry or raspberry jam to the batter and swirl before baking for a peanut butter and jelly-inspired version.
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Crunchy Toppings: Sprinkle chopped peanuts or granola on top before baking for added texture and visual appeal.
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Spices: Cinnamon is already included, but feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg, cloves, or cardamom to warm things up even more.
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Mini Loaves or Muffins: Pour the batter into muffin tins or mini loaf pans for portable treats—just reduce the baking time accordingly.
Nutritional Benefits
While this is a comfort food, Peanut Butter Banana Bread has some nutritional perks. Bananas are rich in potassium, fiber, and natural sweetness. Peanut butter contributes protein and healthy fats, making the bread more filling and providing longer-lasting energy. Using sour cream gives the bread moisture without needing extra oil, and you can adjust the sugar levels based on your preference.
Of course, if you want to take it a step further, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a portion of the all-purpose flour, use natural peanut butter without added sugars, or include ground flaxseed or chia seeds for an extra health boost.
Great for Sharing and Gifting
Peanut Butter Banana Bread also makes a thoughtful and tasty homemade gift. Wrapped in parchment and tied with a bit of twine, a loaf is a heartfelt offering for a new neighbor, a thank-you to a friend, or even a holiday or teacher’s gift. It travels well and looks beautiful sliced and stacked in a bakery-style box.
If you’re hosting a brunch or family gathering, slice the bread and serve it alongside other baked goods for an easy, crowd-pleasing spread. You could even turn it into French toast or sandwich two slices with a layer of Nutella or cream cheese for a decadent treat.
Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe
The best recipes are the ones that become part of your regular rotation—and this one fits that mold. It’s approachable, forgiving, and endlessly adaptable. Once you make it, you’ll start spotting overripe bananas on your counter and smile, knowing exactly what to do with them. This is the kind of recipe that makes baking feel joyful, not intimidating.
Even if you’re not a seasoned baker, this loaf gives you a chance to whip up something delicious with just a few simple tools and ingredients. The results are impressive and satisfying, and the process itself is therapeutic and rewarding.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Banana Bread is the ultimate comfort bake—a simple yet satisfying recipe that combines the best of both worlds: the natural sweetness of bananas and the rich nuttiness of peanut butter. Whether you’re baking it for yourself, your family, or to share with others, it’s a guaranteed hit.
This recipe is adaptable, forgiving, and full of personality. With endless variation options, a moist texture that lasts for days, and a flavor that only gets better over time, it’s no wonder so many people make this bread over and over again. Keep this one in your recipe box—you’ll reach for it every time those bananas start to spot.
Let your creativity shine, enjoy the process, and share the love—because nothing says home quite like a freshly baked loaf of Peanut Butter Banana Bread.