As I stood in my kitchen, a potent aroma of roasted chocolate met my senses and whisked me away to my childhood, where banana bread was a staple of comfort. Today, I’m thrilled to share my take on the classic treat: Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread. Not only is this recipe indulgent and moist, but it also transforms overripe bananas into a culinary delight, making it a perfect excuse to skip the fast-food line. With its simple preparation, this bread is quick to whip up, ensuring you can enjoy a slice (or two) before you know it. Curious about how chocolate and peanut butter meld into a cake-like wonder? Let’s dive in and explore all the delicious details together! Why Is This Banana Bread So Irresistible? Decadent Flavor: This Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread is a true indulgence, combining rich chocolate with creamy peanut butter for an unforgettable taste sensation. Moist & Tender: Thanks to overripe bananas, each slice remains incredibly moist, resembling a delightful cake. Simple Prep: You don’t need to be a baking expert—this easy recipe is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their banana bread game. Versatile Uses: Enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert. You can serve it warm or toasted with a touch of peanut butter, making it endlessly adaptable. Time-Saving: With a quick prep time and the baking done in about an hour, you’ll have a warm, comforting loaf ready in no time! If you’re looking for more delicious bread ideas, be sure to check out my Butter Chicken Discover or try a twist with Nutella Banana Bread! Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread Ingredients For the Batter • Peanut Butter – Adds creaminess and flavor; opt for a creamy brand like Skippy for best results. • Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps with moisture retention. • Mashed Bananas – Contributes natural sweetness and moisture; ensure they are overripe for optimal flavor. • Vegetable Oil – Keeps the bread moist; can be substituted with melted coconut oil. • Eggs – Acts as a binding agent for structure. • Vanilla – Enhances the overall flavor profile. • All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the bread. • Cocoa Powder – Provides chocolate flavor; ensure it is unsweetened for balanced taste. • Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent to help the bread rise. • Salt – Balances flavor and enhances sweetness. Optional Garnishes • Banana Slices – For garnish and added texture. For the Drizzle • Creamy Peanut Butter – Adds extra indulgence on top; avoid natural varieties which don’t melt well. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, take a large loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, which helps prevent sticking. This simple step will make it easier to remove your delectable Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread once it’s baked to perfection. Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine slightly melted creamy peanut butter, sugar, and the mashed overripe bananas. Add in the vegetable oil and eggs, stirring well until all ingredients are thoroughly blended. You should see a smooth consistency develop—this forms the luscious base for your bread. Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients Next, stir in the unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined; you should see the rich chocolate color coming through. This blend of dry ingredients will add that delightful indulgence to your Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread while ensuring it rises beautifully in the oven. Step 4: Fold in the Flour Now, gently fold in the all-purpose flour into your moist mixture. Be careful not to overmix, as you want the batter to remain light and airy. Stop when the flour is just incorporated, leaving a few flour streaks for a tender and soft loaf. Step 5: Pour and Garnish Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top for an even bake. If desired, scatter banana slices atop the batter for an extra touch of sweetness and a lovely presentation. These will caramelize slightly while baking, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread. Step 6: Bake to Perfection Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 55 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center; it should come out clean. This indicates that your decadent creation is ready to be taken out and enjoyed. Step 7: Cool and Transfer Once baked, allow your Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread to cool in the pan for about 20 minutes. This will help it set and make it easier to remove. After cooling, gently transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before drizzling with peanut butter. Step 8: Prepare the Peanut Butter Drizzle For the indulgent drizzle, melt more creamy peanut butter in a microwave-safe bowl for about 30 seconds. Stir until creamy and smooth. When the bread is cool, drizzle the melted peanut butter generously over the top—this extra touch will elevate your chocolate banana bread into a truly decadent treat! Make Ahead Options These Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the wet ingredients and dry ingredients as directed, then store the combined batter in the refrigerator in an airtight container. This not only keeps your ingredients fresh but also allows the flavors to meld even more, enhancing the taste! When you’re ready to bake, just pour the chilled batter into your prepared loaf pan and add optional banana slices on top before baking as directed. This way, you can enjoy a fresh, decadent loaf with minimal fuss, just when you need it! Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread Variations Feel free to get creative with your Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread—each twist can introduce a whole new yummy experience! Nutella Swirl: Gently fold in swirls of Nutella for an extra-chocolatey treat that adds a delightful hazelnut flavor. Chocolate Chips: Add a handful of chocolate chips for melt-in-your-mouth pockets of gooeyness in every slice. Who doesn’t love extra chocolate? Almond Butter: Swap peanut butter for almond butter for a different nutty flavor. This change also brings a unique richness to your bread. Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to turn up the heat for an unexpected but delightful flavor combination. Whole Wheat Option: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier version that is just as delicious while adding extra nutrients. Caramelized Bananas: Sauté banana slices in a bit of butter and brown sugar before adding them to the mix to create a rich flavor that elevates the bread. Chunky Peanut Butter: Use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy for added texture and nutty bites throughout. It’s a fantastic compromise for peanut butter lovers. Coconut Twist: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical vibe that elevates this bread to a whole new level of deliciousness. The added chewiness is a delightful surprise! If you’re craving more delightful bread ideas, try my Baked Lemon Butter or savor the comforting embrace of Banana Bread Old. What to Serve with Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread Indulging in a slice of Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread opens the door to a world of comforting pairings. Fresh Berries: Bright and tart, a handful of berries adds a refreshing contrast to the rich bread, enhancing each bite. Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of yogurt on the side brings a tangy creaminess that complements the chocolate and peanut butter beautifully. Coffee or Espresso: The rich, bold flavors of coffee elevate the sweetness of the banana bread, creating a perfect breakfast duo. Nutty Granola: For a satisfying crunch, sprinkle some granola on top or serve it on the side; it introduces delightful texture. Chocolate Chip Ice Cream: The warmth of the bread with a scoop of cold chocolate chip ice cream creates a heavenly dessert experience. Chopped Nuts: Adding walnuts or pecans gives a lovely crunch and nutty flavor, making each slice even more indulgent. Coconut Whipped Cream: A light dollop of coconut cream adds a tropical twist, balancing the rich flavors with a hint of sweetness. Honey Drizzle: Drizzling honey over the top brings an added layer of sweetness that enhances the moisture of the bread while enhancing the peanut butter. Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea offers a gentle flavor that won’t overpower the banana bread, making it a relaxing snack or treat. Storage Tips for Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread Room Temperature: Store your Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil at room temperature for up to 3 days for the best flavor and texture. Fridge: If you want to keep it a bit longer, refrigerate the bread for up to a week. Just remember to wrap it well to maintain its moisture! Freezer: For extended storage, slice the loaf and freeze individual pieces in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or toast straight from the freezer for a delightful treat! Reheating: Enjoy the bread warm by gently reheating slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or pop them in the toaster for a delightful warm snack! Expert Tips for Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread Ripeness Matters: Use very ripe bananas for the sweetest and most flavorful bread. The darker the peel, the better the taste! Don’t Overmix: When adding the all-purpose flour, mix just until combined to maintain a light and tender crumb in your Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread. Cooling Time: Allow the loaf to cool for at least 20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This step helps set the bread and prevents it from breaking. Perfect Peanut Butter Drizzle: Melt creamy peanut butter for the drizzle, ensuring to choose a variety that melts easily. Natural peanut butter may not provide the desired consistency. Flavor Boost: Remix your recipe by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra flavor twist in your banana bread creation! Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right bananas for this recipe? For the best results in your Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread, choose bananas that are very ripe, with plenty of brown spots and even some black skin. These overripe bananas are sweeter and will give your bread the moist texture it’s known for. If you don’t have any on hand, simply leave a few bananas at room temperature for a couple of days until they reach that ideal ripeness. What is the best way to store Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread? You can keep your banana bread fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and storing it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, refrigerate it, where it will remain delightful for up to a week. Just make sure to wrap it well to minimize drying out! Can I freeze Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread? Absolutely! To freeze, slice the bread and place it in a zip-top bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you want to indulge, simply remove a slice and thaw at room temperature, or pop it straight into the toaster for a warm, comforting treat. What should I do if my banana bread doesn’t rise? If your Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread doesn’t rise as expected, first ensure that your baking soda is fresh and not expired. Overmixing the batter can also cause it to become dense. When adding the flour, mix just until combined—this will maintain a lighter texture. Lastly, always check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer to ensure it’s accurate! Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies? While this recipe features peanut butter, which is not suitable for those with nut allergies, you can substitute it with sunbutter (sunflower seed butter) or soy nut butter for a nut-free version. These alternatives will provide a similar creamy texture, allowing everyone to enjoy this delicious Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread without worry. How can I incorporate other flavors or variations into this recipe? You can easily personalize your Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread! Consider adding chocolate chips for bursts of chocolatey goodness, or mix in nuts for a delightful crunch. For a fun twist, try incorporating spices like cinnamon or cardamom, or even substitute half the cocoa with nutella for a Nutella Banana Bread variation! Decadent Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread for Sweet Days Indulge in the Chocolate Peanut Butter Banana Bread, a delightful blend of rich chocolate and creamy peanut butter, perfect for sweet days. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 55 minutes minsCooling Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Batter1 cup Creamy Peanut Butter Opt for a creamy brand like Skippy for best results.1 cup Sugar Provides sweetness and helps with moisture retention.3 medium Mashed Overripe Bananas Contributes natural sweetness and moisture.1/3 cup Vegetable Oil Keeps the bread moist; can be substituted with melted coconut oil.2 large Eggs Acts as a binding agent for structure.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Enhances the overall flavor profile.1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour Gives structure to the bread.1/2 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder Provides chocolate flavor.1 teaspoon Baking Soda Acts as a leavening agent.1/2 teaspoon Salt Balances flavor and enhances sweetness.Optional Garnishes1 medium Banana Slices For garnish and added texture.For the Drizzle1/2 cup Creamy Peanut Butter Adds extra indulgence on top. Equipment Loaf Panmixing bowlwhiskmeasuring cupsmeasuring spoonsParchment paper Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a large loaf pan with parchment paper.In a large mixing bowl, combine slightly melted creamy peanut butter, sugar, and mashed overripe bananas. Add in the vegetable oil and eggs, stirring until smooth.Stir in cocoa powder, baking soda, salt, and vanilla extract until just combined.Gently fold in all-purpose flour until just incorporated, being careful not to overmix.Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Optionally, add banana slices on top.Bake for about 55 minutes, checking for doneness by inserting a knife into the center.Allow to cool in the pan for 20 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.Melt more creamy peanut butter in a microwave for about 30 seconds and drizzle over the cooled bread before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 6gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 5mg NotesUse very ripe bananas for the sweetest bread. Avoid overmixing the flour to maintain a light texture. Store wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for best flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
