There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through the kitchen. It’s a scent that evokes memories of cozy mornings and cherished family gatherings. Now, imagine elevating that classic comfort with the creamy richness of peanut butter and the delightful surprise of semi-sweet chocolate chips. This Rich Peanut Butter Banana Bread with Chocolate Chips is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a heartwarming experience that brings together the best of nostalgic flavors and indulgent twists.
Drawing from your love for peanut butter and banana recipes (like the Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars, and Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Muffins) and chocolatey treats (like the Healthy Brownie Baked Oatmeal ), this banana bread is a must-bake. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Banana Bread Recipe
- Moist and Flavorful: The combination of overripe bananas and creamy peanut butter ensures a moist crumb and a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Chocolatey Delight: Semi-sweet chocolate chips add pockets of melty goodness, making each bite a delightful surprise.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common pantry ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a dessert. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk.
- Freezer-Friendly: Bake ahead and freeze slices for a quick grab-and-go option during busy mornings.
What you will need + Smart Substitutions
- 3 medium overripe bananas, mashed
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup canola oil
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Ingredient Substitutions
- Bananas: If you’re short on bananas, unsweetened applesauce can be a substitute (½ cup applesauce per banana), but note that the flavor and texture will differ.
- Peanut Butter: Almond or cashew butter can be used for a different nutty profile. For a nut-free version, sunflower seed butter is a great alternative.
- Canola Oil: Melted coconut oil or vegetable oil can replace canola oil. For a lighter version, unsweetened applesauce can be used, though the texture may be slightly denser.
- Egg: For a vegan option, use a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water).
- Flour: Whole wheat flour can be used for added fiber, but expect a denser loaf. Gluten-free all-purpose flour blends can also be used for a gluten-free version.
- Chocolate Chips: Dark chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can be used based on preference.
Step-by-Step Instructions (with Pro Tips)
Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or oil, or line with parchment paper for easier removal.
Tip: Use parchment with overhang for clean lifting, a technique you’ve preferred in recipes like the Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Bars .
Mix Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 mashed medium overripe bananas (about 1 cup), ½ cup creamy peanut butter, ¼ cup canola oil, 1 large egg, ½ cup granulated sugar, and ¼ cup brown sugar. Mix with a spatula or whisk until smooth and well combined.
Tip: Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and easy mashing, a method you’ve appreciated in recipes like the Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Muffins.
Add Dry Ingredients
- Stir in 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, ½ tsp baking soda, ½ tsp baking powder, and ½ tsp salt until just blended. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
Tip: Mix until no flour streaks remain.
Fold in Chocolate Chips
- Gently fold in 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
Tip: Reserve a few chips to sprinkle on top for a prettier finish.
Pour and Spread
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly with a spatula for consistent baking.
Tip: Smooth the top for an even rise.
Bake
- Bake for 60–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If browning too quickly, cover with foil after 50 minutes.
Tip: Check at 60 minutes to avoid overbaking; ovens vary.
Cool and Slice
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely (about 1 hour) before slicing into 10 even slices.
Tip: Cool fully to prevent crumbling when slicing.
Topping Suggestions
- Peanut Butter Drizzle: Warm a few tablespoons of peanut butter and drizzle over the cooled loaf for an extra nutty touch.
- Chocolate Ganache: Melt chocolate with a bit of cream and pour over the top for a decadent finish.
- Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle chopped peanuts or walnuts on top before baking for added crunch.
- Banana Slices: Decorate the top with thin banana slices before baking for a visually appealing presentation.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 300
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 5g
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store & Reheat
Storage:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- Microwave: Heat a slice on high for 15-20 seconds.
- Oven: Wrap in foil and warm in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes.
What to Serve with Peanut Butter Banana Bread
- Greek Yogurt: Vanilla or plain for a creamy contrast.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries or blueberries for tartness.
- Coffee: Espresso or latte to complement chocolate.
- Milk: Dairy or plant-based, perfect for pairing.
- Smoothie: Banana or berry for a nutrient boost.
FAQs
Can I use unripe bananas?
Overripe bananas are sweeter and easier to mash, but unripe ones can work if blended smooth. Add 1–2 tbsp extra sugar for sweetness.
Can I make vegan peanut butter banana bread?
Yes! Swap egg for a flax egg, use vegan chocolate chips, and ensure peanut butter is vegan-friendly. Replace brown sugar with maple syrup if desired.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Yes! Fold in ½ cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or peanut butter chips with the chocolate chips. Keep total mix-ins to 1 cup, a customization you’ve liked in recipes like the Peanut Butter S’mores Oatmeal Cookie Bars (May 21, 2025).
How do I prevent the peanut butter banana bread from being too dense?
Measure flour accurately (spoon and level), avoid overmixing, and ensure bananas are well-mashed. Bake until a toothpick comes out clean.
Peanut Butter Banana Bread with Chocolate Chips
Equipment
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- Cooking spray or oil (for greasing)
- Large mixing bowl (for wet ingredients)
- Spatula (for mixing and spreading)
- Fork or potato masher (for mashing bananas)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wire rack (for cooling)
- Optional: Parchment paper (for easier removal)
- Optional: Whisk (for smoother mixing)
Ingredients
- 3 medium overripe bananas mashed
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup canola oil
- 1 whole large egg
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mix mashed bananas, creamy peanut butter, canola oil, egg, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined.
- Stir in all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until just blended, then fold in chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 60-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
This Rich Peanut Butter Banana Bread with Chocolate Chips is more than just a delightful treat; it’s a fusion of classic comfort and indulgent flavors. Whether you’re enjoying a slice with your morning coffee, packing it in a lunchbox, or savoring it as an evening dessert, this bread is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Its moist texture, combined with the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate, makes it a hit for all ages. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let the baking begin!
