Peanut butter banana bread is the ultimate comfort bake. It’s soft, tender, and loaded with the sweet banana flavor we all love, plus the rich, nutty swirl of peanut butter. It’s an irresistible combo that makes every slice taste special.
What makes this loaf stand out is the balance of flavors and textures. The bananas keep it moist, while the peanut butter adds depth and just the right touch of salty sweet indulgence. It’s delicious plain, but even better with a smear of butter, Nutella, or jelly.
If you’re a fan of easy sweet breads, be sure to try our Cream Cheese Banana Bread, Blueberry Bread, Snickerdoodle Bread, and Zucchini Bread next. They’re all favorites at our house!
Why we think you’ll love it:
- Loved by all. Family approved and kid friendly with the peanut butter twist.
- Easy. Simple ingredients and one bowl mixing make cleanup easy.
- Make ahead. Freezer friendly for grab and go breakfasts or snacks.
Peanut Butter Banana Bread Ingredients
- Sugar (1 cup) – Sweetens the loaf and balances the peanut butter’s saltiness.
- Unsalted butter, salted (½ cup) – Adds richness and tender texture.
- Creamy peanut butter, divided (½ cup) – Infuses nutty flavor into the batter and creates a pretty swirl on top.
- Eggs (2) – Bind the ingredients together and give structure.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) – Rounds out the flavors with a warm note.
- Milk (3 tablespoons) – Keeps the batter smooth and prevents dryness.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups) – Forms the base of the bread with structure and softness.
- Salt (½ teaspoon) – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
- Baking soda (½ teaspoon) – Helps the bread rise properly.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon) – Gives extra lift and lightness.
- Bananas (3 overripe and mashed) – Bring natural sweetness and keep the bread moist. You can wait for the bananas to brown on their own, but that can take several days. To speed up to process naturally you can place the bananas in a brown paper bag or you can ripen bananas in the oven or microwave.
How to Make Peanut Butter Banana Bread
PREP. Preheat the oven to 325°F. Grease a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper, then set aside.
(The best way that I’ve found to prevent the bread from sticking to the bread pan is to spray the pan with cooking spray, then line it with parchment paper, making sure that it overhangs a little on each side).
WET INGREDIENTS. In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the sugar, butter, and ¼ cup peanut butter until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, vanilla, and milk, and mix until smooth.
DRY INGREDIENTS. Add the flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder, and mix until just combined. Fold in the mashed bananas and pour into the prepared loaf pan. (I like to add the bananas last so there are still some small chunks of banana in the finished bread.)
SWIRL. Scoop the remaining ¼ cup peanut butter into a Ziploc bag, and cut the corner off the bag. Pipe three lines of peanut butter across the top of the batter, then drag a toothpick or skewer through the batter to swirl the peanut butter.
BAKE. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
Kristyn’s Recipe Tips
- Use super ripe bananas. The darker and spottier, the better! They mash easily and add natural sweetness.
- Don’t over-mix. Mix the dry and wet ingredients until just combined so the bread stays soft and tender.
- Swirl smartly. For the prettiest swirl, make three even lines of peanut butter and gently drag a toothpick back and forth.
- Check early. Start testing at 55 minutes, since oven times vary. You don’t want to dry it out.
- Make ’em mini. Try baking in mini loaf pans or muffin tins for quick snacks and gifting.
Peanut Butter Banana Bread Recipe
Video
Ingredients
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter divided
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 3 bananas overripe and mashed
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F. Grease a 9 x 5 loaf pan and line with parchment paper, then set aside.
- In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, cream together the sugar, butter, and ¼ cup peanut butter until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, vanilla, and milk, and mix until smooth.
- Add the flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder, and mix until just combined. Fold in the mashed bananas and pour into the prepared loaf pan.
- Scoop the remaining ¼ cup peanut butter into a ziplock bag, and cut the corner off the bag. Pipe three lines of peanut butter across the top of the batter, then drag a toothpick or skewer through the batter to swirl the peanut butter.
- Bake 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
Notes
- Use extra-ripe bananas for the sweetest, richest flavor.
- For a crunchy twist, substitute crunchy peanut butter or add chopped nuts.
- Swirl extra peanut butter on top before baking for a bakery-style look.
- Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months—perfect for make-ahead breakfasts.
- Try baking in mini loaf pans or muffin tins for quick snacks and gifting.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Recipe FAQ
If your bread comes out of the oven with a crack on top – it turned out just right! It will expand when cooking and let steam out of the top. If the top has already formed a crust then it cracks to allow the steam to escape.
With just a couple of adjustments, you can make muffins. Fill each muffin tin ⅔ of the way full add a bit of peanut butter on top and bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
No need to store in the refrigerator, simply keep the bread on the counter in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic for a few days.
Wrap in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place in a Ziploc bag in the freezer for up to 3-4 months.
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This recipe was originally published July 2018.
Looks good but could I make it with gluten free flour please?
Yes, you can usually substitute a 1 to 1 gluten free flour blend in this recipe and it should work well. If you can, use a blend that includes xanthan gum for the best texture. Hope you enjoy it!
This was such a hit with my son and his friends, moist crumb, crunchy top. So happy I tried this recipe. Well earned 5plus stars
I’m glad it was a hit with your son and his friends. Thanks so much for the 5 plus stars!
Just made the bread oh my my moist and delicious 😋 little banana little peanut butter will be making alot
Delicious recipe! Perfection thank you
Hi there I have tried your Recipe it is in my Oven right Now Thankyou for Sharing it in here HUGS Patricia
I made this a couple days ago to use up some bananas, and it’s incredible. I added 1/2 tsp cinnamon and baked it in a 8.4 x 6.4 inch pan and it still came out perfect.
I made this and took it into work and my boss said it’s the best banana bread he’s ever had. I’ve made it like 10 times now; I even buy mushy bananas on purpose just to make this recipe haha. It’s very moist and rich, and super easy to make. 10/10
Could I make this in a 9×13 cake pan instead? What temperature and baking time would you recommend? I want to take it to a potluck and cut in two inch squares
I love peanut butter and banana bread so nice and soft and moist. I couldn’t eat one slice right away I had to eat too. Thank you again.
This PB Banana loaf is super moist. So delicious.
Thanks
I think the nutritional information is incorrect. A serving at 10 grams would be a little more than 2 1/2 teaspoons. Just a mom of a Type 1 Diabetic trying to prevent lows 😉 In process of making this, so I will have the weighted value when done if interested. Dough was amazing!! Fantastic flavor!!
Amazing. Thank you. I separated the mix and added mini chocolate chips to half. However, this recipe stands on its own💙
I converted this to gluten free/vegan and substituted the egg for 1/2 cup applesauce. This was amazing. Thank you for this recipe. I printed and saved it in our favorites binder.
Thanks for the tip to make it gluten free/vegan. I’m so glad you loved the bread!!
It’s very good, however I wonder what I could add or change to make it abit more moist? Anyone have suggestions? Instead of making a large loaf I made them in small single loaves.
I’ve made this recipe at least 5 times now! I can’t get enough of it. The peanut butter swirl on top comes out so rich and gives it a little crunch, and the inside is super moist (Sometimes it needs to bake 5-10 min extra but it always ends up rising really big and beautifully.) I wasn’t the biggest banana bread fan until I had brown bananas one day and found this recipe, now it’s one of my favorites.
Oh I’m so happy to hear that!! Thanks for sharing!
I love this bread! it is moist and very peanut buttery…..thank you for the recipe!
The best best! Make this all the time! I use 1/2 sugar and half 1/2 brown sugar in mine!
Yummy!!
I LOVE banana & peanut butter smoothies, and homemade ice cream, but THiS bread is like a slice of heaven!!! Thank you for sharing!! My husband said he likes this better than any banana bread I’ve ever made! ♥️
I made this today oh my gosh delicious ! I took a chance and went ahead and doubled the recipe. Made it just as posted.
Next time I may add a bunch of nuts because we like nuts.
The best banana bread recipe I have found so far! I add chocolate chips to mine as well!!!
Mmm I bet the addition of the chocolate chips is amazing! So glad you love this recipe!
In my almost 80 years I’ve made several banana breads. Without a doubt this is the best ever banana bread recipe. Ten stars, thank you very much.
Oh what a compliment! Thank you so much! I’m glad you enjoyed the bread recipe!
I just made this and added peanut butter chips. FANTASTIC!!
Mmm sounds delicious! So glad you enjoyed the bread recipe!
The best banana bread ever! It was my first attempt and there’s no need to say it won’t be the last time I bake this! Amazing!
This is the BEST banana bread i have made ever! The family loved it! I did not put the extra peanut butter on top, and i added a few chocolate chips. So moist and delicious!
I’m so glad you and your family enjoyed the bread! Thanks for sharing what you did.
I had never baked a peanut butter and banana loaf. It looks delightful.
Hope you enjoy!!
Can you use this for cupcakes too?
We have made these in mini loaves before and they turn out great! I imagine they would work well in cupcake/muffin form too. You’ll just want to reduce the baking time keep an eye on them. You’ll know they are done by inserting a toothpick that comes out clean. You’ll have to let us know how they turn out!
It’s absolutely AWESOME! I made it today and it was my first attempt at banana bread; no need to say I won’t be looking for other recipes!
Oh I’m so happy to hear you loved the recipe!!
Added double pnut butter, two bananas and sprinkled peanuts on top. Looks and tastes fab!!
Mmmm sounds delicious! So glad you enjoyed the bread. Thanks for sharing what you did.
This is my go-to snack on the golf course. Powers me through 18 holes and improves my game!
Oh I love this! So glad you enjoy the bread + helps your golf game too! 😉
This is a great recipe! For a lighter loaf, I’ve halved the sugar and done 2/3 cup of butter, no peanut butter, and it comes out great! Then I’m able to add on butter, cream cheese, or jam, etc. on top if I so feel like it.
Sounds tasty! Glad to hear you enjoyed the recipe!
Delicious bread – sweet and salty as promised, the family loved it! , I used a reusable piping bag to save on the plastic – same great result, easier on the planet!
I’m so glad you enjoyed the recipe! Thanks for sharing what you did!
I have used this recipe a few times and I am very happy with it. Have tried others. This is by far the best.
I’m so glad you enjoy it so much! Thanks for sharing!
This was both absolutely beautiful and delicious. Made it with the Sisters at the convent I work at and everyone loved it.
Thank you for sharing! I’m so glad you all enjoyed the bread!
I’d give you 10 stars if I could, it’s perfect 😀😋
That is so sweet!! Thank you so much! Glad you enjoyed the bread.
What type/brand of peanut butter is best to use?
I prefer the Jiffy Creamy peanut butter. 🙂
I love banana bread. I also love peanut butter so this should be a very interesting bread. I can’t wait to make it 💜
It’s such a great combo! I hope you like it too! Let me know how it goes.
I made this recipe using Bob’s Red Mill 1 to 1 gluten free flour instead. I put all of the peanut butter into the mix instead of piping half into the middle and it’s absolutely, amazingly delicious!! I had people fighting over the last piece so today I’m doubling the recipe and making muffins instead of bread. I’m certain they’ll be fantastic!!!
Thank you for sharing what you did!
Not too sweet with a slightly salty peanut butter finish. Texture is fantastic- nice and moist right out of the oven. No need to wait a day to develop flavors like some banana breads. This will definitely go into our regular recipe rotation!
Thank you for sharing that 🙂
Just made this and wow is it amazing! I did a couple tweaks. I did half cup white sugar and half cup brown sugar and I used buttermilk instead of regular. Also added a few shakes of cinnamon to final batter and mixed it in. Fabulous!!! Oh and one more tip for anyone who is reading. I added cinnamon to a tub of cool whip and mixed it in. Then topped my hunk of the yummy warm bread with it. Heavenly!!!!!
Perfect!! Thank you for sharing what you did!
Tried this recipe and it is delicious, my husband and loved it! Guess what I am making for Christmas gifts for family and a few friends. Thank you, best we ever had. Merry Christmas!
Awe, thank you so much!! I love to hear that!
How much in cups do you suppose 3 bananas would be? Mine are pretty large.
Not sure in measurements, but that should still be ok 🙂
So good. Did half the sugar and it’S perfect for our palate.
Great!! Glad you tried it! Thank you so much 🙂
So delicious! I used crunchy peanutbutter– added about 1/2 cup in the batter (instead of 1/4 c) and used on;y 2 bananas— still came out great!
Glad you shared what you did! Thank you!
I aDded 1/2 cup chopped nuts, 1/2 cup chocolate chips and a layer of STRAWBERRY jam in the middle! My kids are in love! I would swirl the jam with the bottom layer of Dough next time.
Great idea!! Thank you for sharing that! Happy your kids liked it!
I love this peanut butter banana bread recipe of yours i added extra 1/3 cup of peanut butter and 1/2 cup raisin and it turned out perfect. And btw i used crunchy peanut butter.
Good idea! Thank you for trying it! Glad you liked it!
This was so moist and delicious, I’m really glad I took the risk & made two loaves right from the get-go. It was such a nice change from plain banana bread, or the monkey bars I normally make with leftover ‘nanners. I did have to increase the bake time by about 15 minutes (for a total of 85 minutes in the oven) but that was probably due to having two loaves in at once, plus my oven is wonky. My husband & I both agreed that the peanut butter on top wasn’t great, so next time I’ll either leave it off completely or use Nutella. Thank you for the yummy recipe!
You are so welcome! I am glad you gave it a try 🙂
aBSOLUTELY TOP NOTCH! THANKS FOR SHARING!
Oh, I am so glad you think that! Thank you for letting me know!
The BEST banana bread recipe ever, and we have tried plenty! this just became a forever recipe in our house. thank you!
Awe, I am so glad you like it! Thank you for sharing that!
To dry for me. It is tasty but not moist. I MIght have to EXPLORE with the ingredients.
Thanks for trying it!
I used self raising flour so i opted out baking powder, and also Reduced about 30% sugar, the cake is so good! Moist and fluffY, cant get enough of it. Thank you for the recipe ?
Thanks for sharing what you did! Glad it worked 🙂
Excellent!
Happy you think that! Thank you for letting me know 🙂
I have this in the oven now and hope it turns out as lovely and delicious as yours. P.S. I tried to email this recipe but the link doesn’t seem to be working. Can you help? Thanks, KD
I am sure it will 🙂 As for the link, I am not sure why it wouldn’t be working. It seems ok on this end.
The link is not working for me either to use email to send it. No error message just doesn’t do anything. The other two links work though.
Doing a lot of quarantine baking lately and made this bread to use up some old banAnas and satisfy a peanut Butter craving. Came out perfect! Love it thank you for the recipie!
I’ve been making a lot of bread too. It give comfort 🙂 So glad it turned out! Thank you!
Awesome recipe! Moist bread with the extra peanut butter kick was so good! Definitely a keeper!
Glad to hear that!! Thank you for letting me know that!
Love this recipe! My banana peanut butter recipe turns out be perfect . It is not too sweet and the consistency is just right and very moist. It is a keeper!
Glad it’s a keeper! Thank you for letting me know!
It’s addictive!!! All of my friends love it
Yay!! It so is! Glad your friends liked it!
I need super peanut flavor. Would i BE able to add 3tbsp or so of peanutbutter powder? Do you think it would ruin the recipe?
I personally have not tried, so I can’t say for sure.
PERFECT! WISH I COULD POST A PICTURE OF THIS. IT LOOKED BEAUTIFUL! THE BATTER WAS A LITTLE THICK SO I ADDED A SMALL AMOUnT OF PEANUT BUTTER LIQUOR AND BANANA EXTRACT. I ALSO ADDED A HANDFUL OF LEFTOVER CHOPPED WALNUTS. COOKED PERFECTLY AT THE DIRECTED TEMPERATURE AND TIME (60 MINUTES). TENTED WITH TINFOIL HALFWAY THROUGH TO KEEP IT FROM BROWNING TO MUCH. PREP TIME IS AT LEAST 15 MINUTES – NOT 8. MADE SOME CINNAMON HONEY BUTTER TO GO WITH IT. THIS DOES NOT HAVE A STRONG BANANA FLAVOR, BUT IT IS DELICIOUS JUST THE SAME. IT’S MOIST BUT STILL HOLDS TOGETHER. TO THOSE WHO GASP AT THE CALORIE CONTENT, 1/10 OF A LOAF IS LESS THAN A PIECE OF TRIPLE LAYER CHOCOLATE CAKE. INSTEAD OF AVOIDING RICH FOOD, WE CHOSE TO ENJOY IT IN MODERATION. THANKS FOR SHARING THIS LOVELY RECIPE.
You are so welcome!! Thank you for sharing that!! That sounds great!
ThIs sounded amazing until i got to the nutritional facts. Please tell me That’s for the whole bread? But even then it’s quite high.
I had some over ripe bananas I wANTED TO USE because my guest kept asking about them. I searched and found this recipe. We are happy I found it. This recipe is easy and very DELICIOUS.
I am glad you found it, too! Thank you for sharing that!
even after i had to swap some baking powder for soda since my pantry was lacking this bread was amazing! will probably be making it once or twice a week depending on if my kids slow down on it ever.
Thank you for sharing that!!
Have yet to try… looking at the calOries.. and nutritional information i was taken back a bit! Is it accu?
Super fun twist on banana bread- my family couldn’t say enough about it! Will def make again!
Yay!! I am glad your family liked it!! Thank you!
Tried this recipe the other day and my kids could smell it baking and made my whole house smell delicious! Easy to make. They ate the whole thing before I could get a picture of it! Husband said no need to try any other banana bread recipe, this ones a winner!!!
Love hearing that!! I am so glad everyone loved it. Thank you so much for letting me know!
Looks really yummy!! Wondering have you done this recipe with Nutella instead of the peanut butter?
I have not, but I bet it would be good! If you try it, I’d love to know what you think!
Are the nutrition facts correct? Usually it’s based on a serving. Is this list for the entire loaf? So I would divide by 10 to get the per serving facts?