Peanut Butter Loaf
A moist and flavorful peanut butter loaf that combines the richness of peanut butter with a tender crumb. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or a quick treat, this loaf boasts a subtle nutty sweetness and a soft texture, appealing to peanut lovers and those seeking a comforting homemade baking experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Spray a 3-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray; set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine dry ingredients: flour, sugar, and baking powder; set aside.
- In another bowl, beat together the egg, milk, peanut butter, margarine, and vanilla extract until blended.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until moistened.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the loaf is golden and a cake tester inserted in the center comes out dry.
- Let the loaf cool in the pan on a wire rack for 5 minutes.
- Invert the loaf onto the wire rack and cool for 5 minutes.
- Remove the pan and let the loaf cool completely before slicing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter loaf, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. If you prefer a smoother texture, use creamy peanut butter instead of chunky. Adding a pinch of salt enhances the flavor, and you can mix in some chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra richness. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better blending.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices of the peanut butter loaf with a drizzle of honey or a smear of your favorite jam for added sweetness. It pairs beautifully with a side of fresh fruit, like sliced bananas or strawberries, making it a delightful breakfast or snack. For a comforting dessert, enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover peanut butter loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, slice and warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a toaster oven until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Butter Loaf contains roughly 237 calories, with 2g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of calcium (12% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure the blend contains a binding agent like xanthan gum to help maintain the loaf's texture. Follow the same measurements and instructions for the best results.
How can I make this loaf more chocolatey?
To add a chocolatey flavor, stir in half a cup of chocolate chips into the batter before baking. You could also substitute some of the granulated sugar with cocoa powder for a more intense chocolate flavor. Just remember to adjust the liquid slightly if you add dry ingredients.
Is it possible to make this loaf vegan?
Yes, you can make this loaf vegan by substituting the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and using plant-based margarine. Additionally, opt for a non-dairy milk alternative like almond milk for a fully vegan recipe.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).