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 and a colorful crunch from Reese’s Pieces candy. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, this quick bread is not only easy to make but also delivers a flavor explosion that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or looking for a fun family activity, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious bread in no time.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The pairing of peanut butter and banana creates a rich, mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
• Fun and Colorful: The addition of Reese’s Pieces adds a pop of color and crunch, making it visually appealing.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert with the sweet glaze drizzled on top.
• Perfect for Sharing: This bread makes a great gift for friends and family or can be served at gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delightful bread, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process and ensure better results.

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 maintain the shape of your bread.
• Mixing bowls: Using various sizes allows you to mix ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking for consistent results.
• Spatula: A spatula helps fold ingredients gently without deflating your mixture.

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. This ensures that the bread bakes evenly once it’s ready to go in.

Step 2: Prepare Your Loaf Pan

Grease an 8.5 x 4.5 inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking after baking.

Step 3: Mix 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. Fold in the mashed bananas until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Next:
1. Sift in the flour and baking powder into the wet mixture.
2. Mix until just combined; be careful not to over-mix.

Step 5: Add Reese’s Pieces

Gently fold in the Reese’s Pieces candy to distribute them throughout the batter.

Step 6: Bake

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula:
1. Bake for 45 minutes to 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Step 7: Make the Glaze

In a microwave-safe bowl:
1. Whisk together peanut butter, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth.
2. Microwave for about 30 seconds; stir well. Repeat heating in additional intervals until heated through but not boiling.

Step 8: Drizzle and Serve

Drizzle the warm glaze over your cooled loaf while it’s still slightly warm for an extra touch of sweetness!

Enjoy 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 at breakfast, as a snack, or for dessert, these suggestions will enhance your experience.

For Breakfast

• Pair with coffee or tea for a delicious morning boost.
• Serve warm with a pat of butter for extra flavor.

As a Snack

• Slice it and top with sliced strawberries or bananas for added freshness.
• Enjoy with a dollop of yogurt for creamy goodness.

For Dessert

• Warm it slightly and serve with vanilla ice cream.
• Drizzle chocolate sauce on top for an indulgent treat.

At a Gathering

• Cut into bite-sized pieces for easy sharing at parties.
• Present on a decorative platter to impress guests.

How to Perfect Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread

To achieve the best results with your Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread, follow these helpful tips.

• Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the bread light and fluffy.
• Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick; it should come out clean when the bread is done baking.
• Let it cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan before removing to prevent breaking.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brings brightness and balance.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy contrast.
3. Nut Butter Spread: Almond or cashew butter can add another nutty element.
4. Chia Seed Pudding: Light and nutritious, this pudding complements the sweetness of the bread.
5. Smoothie Bowl: Blend up your favorite fruits and top with nuts and seeds for added crunch.
6. Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea provides warmth and enhances flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially with a delicious recipe like Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Skipping the Preheating: Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking. If you skip this step, your bread might not rise properly and could end up dense.

• Not Measuring Ingredients Correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to avoid adding too much or too little of any ingredient.

• Using Overripe Bananas: While ripe bananas add sweetness, overly brown bananas can affect the texture. Look for bananas that are yellow with a few brown spots for the best flavor.

• Ignoring Baking Time: Ovens can vary in temperature. Check your bread a few minutes early by inserting a toothpick; if it comes out clean, it’s done!

• Not Letting It Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its structure and prevents sogginess.

• Skipping the Glaze: The glaze adds an extra layer of flavor and texture. Don’t skip it; it elevates the whole experience of your Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Wrap slices individually for easy access.

Freezing Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread

• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer added texture. It will still taste delicious!

How can I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or other candies. Just be mindful of the overall balance of ingredients.

What can I substitute for Reese’s Pieces?

You can replace them with chocolate chips or other candy pieces if you’re looking for variety.

How do I know when my banana bread is done?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when it’s fully baked.

Final Thoughts

Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Banana Bread is a delightful treat that combines rich flavors with sweetness. It’s versatile enough to enjoy at breakfast or as a dessert. Experiment with different mix-ins and share your creations!