There’s something undeniably cozy about freshly baked banana bread wafting through the kitchen. Now, imagine taking that classic comfort and transforming it into an indulgent treat with the addition of creamy peanut butter and rich, sweet mini peanut butter cups. This Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread is a delightful twist on a traditional favorite that will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a special dessert, this loaf is sure to become a staple in your home.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread is not just any banana bread; it’s a flavor explosion in every slice. The combination of sweet, ripe bananas with the velvety richness of peanut butter and the delightful crunch of peanut butter cups makes for an irresistible treat. It’s moist, fluffy, and oh-so-satisfying. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter! The best part? It’s easy to make and can be whipped up in just one bowl, which means less cleanup for you.

Ingredients at a Glance

1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup butter, softened
3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 1/2 cups mashed banana (about 3 ripe bananas)
2 tablespoons sour cream
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (8-ounce) package mini peanut butter cups, about 1 1/2 cups
1/2 cup whipped peanut butter
1/2 to 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional)

Tools of the Trade

Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for combining all your ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success!
Loaf Pan: A standard 9×5 inch loaf pan works perfectly for this recipe.
Rubber Spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of the bowl and folding in the peanut butter cups.
Whisk: For blending the wet ingredients smoothly.

Cook Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread Like This

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes with a hand mixer or stand mixer.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Bananas

Add the eggs, mashed bananas, sour cream, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.

Step 6: Fold in the Peanut Butter Cups

Gently fold in the mini peanut butter cups, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Add Whipped Peanut Butter

If you like, mix in the whipped peanut butter for an extra creamy texture. You can also sprinkle a little granulated sugar over the top if you desire a sweeter crust.

Step 8: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy your Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread with a slather of additional peanut butter or a drizzle of honey!

Dietary Customizations

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
Lower Sugar: Reduce the amount of sugar or use a sugar substitute to fit your dietary needs.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter, and choose a dairy-free yogurt for the sour cream.
Nut-Free: Omit the peanut butter and replace it with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

As with any baked good, there are a few common issues to watch for:

Overmixing: This can lead to dense banana bread. Mix until just combined.
Dry Bread: If you find your bread is dry, check your oven’s temperature with a thermometer, as it may be too hot.
Burnt Tops: If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil halfway through baking.
Unripe Bananas: Make sure your bananas are fully ripe for the best flavor and moisture content.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To keep your Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread fresh, follow these guidelines:

Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, but it may dry out slightly.
Freezer: Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid from the bananas before mashing them.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

You can use Greek yogurt, buttermilk, or even a non-dairy yogurt as a substitute for sour cream in this recipe.

How do I know when my banana bread is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready to come out of the oven.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Yes! Feel free to add chopped walnuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.

Keep Cooking

Sally’s Baking Addiction – for more sweet treats and baking inspiration.
Pinch of Yum – discover delicious recipes that make cooking easy and fun.
Minimalist Baker – check out simple, quick recipes that cater to various dietary needs.

The Last Word

Baking is not just about creating something delicious; it’s about the joy of sharing and enjoying food with loved ones. This Peanut Butter Cup Banana Bread is the perfect way to bring a little sweetness into your life. With its delightful flavors and tender crumb, it’s a recipe that you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the aroma of baking banana bread fill your home. Happy baking!