Classic Peanut Butter Soft Bread

Peanut butter bread is a nostalgic treat that delivers all the comfort of a classic loaf with rich nutty flavor perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. No mixer required and made with simple ingredients this bread is delightfully moist and satisfying every time I make it for a weekend brunch it disappears in minutes.

I first made this when my kids wanted something sweet but I was out of bananas we all agreed it was an instant classic and it quickly became a family favorite for school lunches and busy mornings.

Ingredients

• Flour: gives the bread structure use white all purpose for a lighter loaf or spelt for a wholesome touch make sure flour is fresh and not packed too tightly when measuring
• Protein powder or extra flour: helps add a bit of nutrition and softens the crumb I like to use a neutral flavored plant protein
• Sugar: gives just the right touch of sweetness a natural unrefined sugar works well if you prefer
• Baking powder: ensures the bread rises evenly always check the date on your baking powder for freshness
• Salt: sharpens flavors and balances the sweetness use a fine sea salt for best results
• Baking soda: reacts with the liquids for extra lift make sure there are no clumps
• Water: keeps the batter moist and comes together easily filtered water is best if your tap has a strong taste
• Peanut butter: is the star creamy natural peanut butter works best for mixing if it seems stiff give it a gentle warm before measuring
• Egg or flax egg: adds richness and binds the bread together flax egg is a great vegan option just mix ground flax with water
• Cinnamon: is optional but lovely for a cozy note
• Mini chocolate chips, chopped peanuts or raisins: make excellent add ins for extra treats I sometimes use roasted peanuts for a little crunch

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pan:

Grease a nine by five inch loaf pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal you want the bread to release without sticking or pulling apart

Warm the Peanut Butter:

If your peanut butter is very stiff or cold warm it gently so it stirs easily pourable peanut butter blends better and gives you a smoother batter

Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl combine the flour protein powder sugar baking powder salt baking soda and optional cinnamon whisk until everything is evenly distributed and there are no lumps

Combine Wet Ingredients:

In a separate bowl whisk together the water peanut butter and egg or flax egg mix until smooth if using flax egg give it a minute to thicken

Stir Wet Into Dry:

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients gently fold with a spatula until just combined do not overmix or the loaf may turn dense you just want everything moistened

Add Any Extras:

Fold in mini chocolate chips chopped peanuts or raisins if using distribute them gently for even bites throughout the loaf

Bake the Bread:

Spoon the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top bake at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit for forty five minutes or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean

Cool and Remove:

Let the bread cool in the pan until just warm then run a knife around the edges and turn it out onto a rack full cooling prevents crumbling

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I love using a chunky natural peanut butter for pockets of rich flavor every time someone tries this bread for the first time I get asked for the recipe I still remember my son smearing his warm slice with extra peanut butter and closing his eyes in happiness

Storage Tips

After the bread cools completely wrap it tightly in plastic or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for longer storage refrigerate slices or freeze them separated by parchment paper so you can grab one any time you need a snack

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of peanut butter try almond or sunflower seed butter for a different but equally delicious loaf gluten free flour blends can be used just check for one made for baking if you need it egg free the flax egg swap works perfectly and keeps the loaf moist

Serving Suggestions

Slice thick for breakfast with a smear of jam or extra peanut butter try toasting slices lightly for a warm nutty snack the bread also makes a fun base for sweet sandwiches with banana slices and honey or with dark chocolate chips for dessert

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Cultural and Historical Context

Peanut butter bread dates back to the depression era when eggs and fats were scarce cooks turned to peanut butter for its protein and richness making this loaf a beloved part of American baking tradition its simplicity and comfort remain just as appealing today

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different nut butter instead of peanut butter?

Yes, almond or cashew butter can be substituted for peanut butter, though the flavor profile will change slightly.

→ How should I store leftover bread?

Keep bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Is it possible to make this bread gluten free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten free blend to suit your dietary needs.

→ What toppings pair well with peanut butter bread?

Spread with fruit jam, a drizzle of honey, or extra peanut butter. Sliced bananas or berries also complement it nicely.

→ Can I bake this bread without eggs?

Yes, use a flax egg or extra water in place of a regular egg for a vegan-friendly option.

→ How do I make the bread sweeter for dessert?

Increase the sugar to one cup and add chocolate chips before baking for a dessert-style loaf.