Introduction
Who doesn’t love the classic trio of chocolate, peanut butter, and banana? These three flavors come together in a mouthwatering chocolate peanut butter banana bread that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you need a quick breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a comforting dessert, this recipe ticks all the boxes. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas pairs perfectly with creamy peanut butter and rich cocoa to create a moist and flavorful bread that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
This recipe offers a delicious way to use overripe bananas and turns them into a treat the whole family will enjoy. With a tender crumb and delightful bursts of chocolate in every bite, it’s sure to become a favorite. Ready to bake? Let’s dive into this irresistible chocolate peanut butter banana bread recipe!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
- Stir in the peanut butter, sugar, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In another bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in the chocolate chips, if using.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Prepare
- Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients and ensure your bananas are overripe for maximum sweetness. Preheat your oven and prepare the loaf pan.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: Mash bananas in a large bowl until smooth. Combine peanut butter, sugar, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir well to create a creamy mixture.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix gently to avoid overmixing, which can make the bread dense.
- Add Chocolate Chips (Optional): For extra indulgence, fold in chocolate chips before pouring the batter into the pan.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool before slicing for the best texture and flavor.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
- Cooling Time: 10-15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings
This recipe makes approximately 8-10 slices, depending on thickness.
FAQs
1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy? Yes, crunchy peanut butter works well if you want added texture in your banana bread.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
3. How do I store the banana bread? Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
4. Can I freeze banana bread? Yes, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
5. What can I use as a substitute for butter? You can substitute the melted butter with an equal amount of coconut oil or vegetable oil.
Chocolate peanut butter banana bread is the ultimate comfort food. It combines the best of rich chocolate, nutty peanut butter, and sweet bananas into a moist and delicious loaf that’s perfect for sharing. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is easy to follow and consistently yields impressive results. Enjoy it with a cup of coffee in the morning or as a dessert topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Not only does it satisfy sweet cravings, but it’s also a fantastic way to use up ripe bananas. The addition of chocolate chips makes it even more indulgent, but feel free to customize it to your liking. Make this delightful treat today and watch it disappear slice by slice! Happy baking!