Intro

The first time I made Peanut Butter Banana Bread Recipe, it was one of those quiet afternoons when the kitchen feels like a sanctuary. Rain tapped gently against the window, a mug of coffee steamed beside me, and three overripe bananas stared me down from the counter, freckled and sweet-smelling.

As a female chef who’s spent years cooking professionally, I still believe some of the best recipes are born at home, barefoot, apron on, music low.

I mashed those bananas by hand, stirred in a generous spoonful of peanut butter, and the moment the batter came together, I knew this was something special. The aroma alone—nutty, warm, comforting—felt like a hug.

This Peanut Butter Banana Bread Recipe isn’t just another loaf to slice and forget. It’s the kind of bake that fills your house with nostalgia, makes neighbors curious, and has you sneaking back into the kitchen for “just one more slice.”

Think tender crumb, deep banana flavor, and that unmistakable richness peanut butter brings. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just looking for an easy win, this is one of those recipes that feels like it’s been waiting for you.

What is Peanut Butter Banana Bread Recipe?

At its heart, Peanut Butter Banana Bread Recipe is a cozy twist on traditional banana bread. You take the classic sweetness of ripe bananas and weave in creamy peanut butter, creating a loaf that’s richer, slightly nutty, and incredibly satisfying.

The banana keeps everything moist and soft, while the peanut butter adds body and a subtle savory edge that balances the sugar beautifully.

What makes this recipe unique is its versatility. It can be as simple or as indulgent as you like—keep it pure and classic, or add chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or a swirl of extra peanut butter on top. I like to think of it as the meeting point between comfort food and bakery-style treat. It’s familiar, but with a little wink of surprise.

Why I Love Making This at Home

As a chef, I test recipes constantly, but the homemade Peanut Butter Banana Bread Recipe has a special place in my rotation. It’s forgiving, adaptable, and practically impossible to mess up.

Even on days when I’m tired, this loaf comes together easily, and the payoff is huge. The smell alone—bananas caramelizing, peanut butter warming in the oven—can turn a rough day around.

It’s also a recipe I love sharing. I’ve wrapped slices in parchment for friends, served it warm with coffee for brunch guests, and even toasted leftovers with a little butter for breakfast. Every time, someone asks for the recipe. That’s how I know it’s a keeper.

Equipment List

You don’t need fancy tools for this easy Peanut Butter Banana Bread Recipe. Simple, reliable kitchen basics are perfect.

Mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
Whisk or wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Rubber spatula
Fork or potato masher (for bananas)
Loaf pan (9×5 inch)
Parchment paper or nonstick spray
Cooling rack

Ingredients

These ingredients are designed to work beautifully together and are suitable for recipe schema use.

3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 ½ cups)
½ cup creamy peanut butter
½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
¾ cup brown sugar
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt

Optional Ingredients:

½ cup chocolate chips
¼ cup chopped peanuts
1 teaspoon cinnamon
Extra peanut butter for swirling on top

Instructions

Step 1: Warm Up the Kitchen

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This is when the kitchen starts to feel alive—oven humming, anticipation building.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until mostly smooth with a few small lumps. Those little bits melt into the loaf, giving pockets of banana sweetness.

Step 3: Add the Richness

Stir the peanut butter and melted butter into the bananas. The mixture should look glossy and thick, and you’ll immediately smell that nutty aroma blooming.

Step 4: Sweeten and Smooth

Whisk in the brown sugar and granulated sugar until well combined. Add the eggs and vanilla, mixing until the batter looks silky and cohesive.

Step 5: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures even rise and balanced flavor.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Stop as soon as you don’t see dry streaks—overmixing is the enemy of tender banana bread.

Step 7: Customize the Loaf

Fold in any optional ingredients like chocolate chips or peanuts. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and, if you like, swirl a little extra peanut butter on top.

Step 8: Bake and Breathe It In

Bake for 55–65 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. The top should be golden and slightly cracked.

Step 9: Cool (If You Can)

Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack. This is the hardest part—waiting—but it helps the flavors settle.

Flavor and Texture Notes

One of the joys of this classic Peanut Butter Banana Bread Recipe is its texture. The crumb is tender and moist without being heavy. Peanut butter gives it structure, while bananas keep everything soft. The crust develops a gentle chew, especially around the edges, which contrasts beautifully with the fluffy interior.

Serving Suggestions

I’ve served this loaf in more ways than I can count:

Warm slices with butter
Toasted with honey
Alongside coffee or tea
As a dessert with vanilla ice cream

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This bread keeps wonderfully:

Store at room temperature, wrapped, for up to 3 days
Refrigerate for up to 1 week
Freeze slices individually for up to 3 months

Variations to Try

If you like experimenting, here are some ideas:

Use crunchy peanut butter for extra texture
Add a banana slice topping before baking
Swirl in Nutella for a decadent twist
Make muffins instead of a loaf

FAQs

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Results may vary slightly but still delicious.

Can I reduce the sugar?
You can cut the sugar by about ¼ cup total, especially if your bananas are very ripe.

What peanut butter works best?
Creamy peanut butter gives the smoothest texture, but natural peanut butter works too—just stir it well first.

Why did my bread sink?
This usually happens from underbaking or opening the oven too early. Make sure it’s fully set before removing.

Is this really an easy recipe for beginners?
Absolutely. This easy Peanut Butter Banana Bread Recipe is forgiving and great for first-time bakers.

Final Thoughts

Every time I bake this loaf, I’m reminded why I fell in love with cooking in the first place. Peanut Butter Banana Bread Recipe is simple, comforting, and deeply satisfying—exactly what home baking should be. If you make it, I hope it fills your kitchen with warmth and your heart with the same joy it brings me.