Born out of the frugal baking era of the 1940s, Peanut Butter Bread is making a well-deserved comeback. With no yeast, no rising time, and a short list of pantry staples, it’s the kind of no-fuss, soft, slightly sweet bread that satisfies peanut butter lovers of all ages.
It’s not just a recipe—it’s a bite of history. And it still works perfectly today, whether you’re serving it with jam, toasting it for breakfast, or just grabbing a slice with your afternoon coffee.
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s something magical about vintage recipes that keep things simple but deeply satisfying. This Peanut Butter Bread uses just 6 ingredients, no mixer required, and yet produces a tender loaf that tastes like comfort itself.
It’s budget-friendly, freezer-friendly, kid-approved, and unapologetically peanut buttery. And the best part? You probably have everything you need in your pantry right now.
📋 Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy—your choice)
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ cup milk
🥄 Ingredient Tips & Swaps
- Make it whole grain: Swap half the flour for whole wheat flour for extra heartiness.
- Dairy-free? Use almond, oat, or soy milk.
- No sugar? Try maple syrup or honey, but reduce the milk slightly to adjust for added liquid.
- Boost the nostalgia: Fold in chopped peanuts or raisins if you like a little texture.
👨🍳 Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard loaf pan (8×4 or 9×5 inches).
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, eggs, flour, and baking powder. Mix until mostly combined.
- Add milk: Stir in the milk and mix until the batter is smooth and thick.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
💡 Tips for Peanut Butter Bread Success
- Don’t overmix. This is a quick bread, so mix until just combined to keep the texture soft.
- Let it rest: Cooling helps the flavors settle and gives you cleaner slices.
- Try it toasted: A toasted slice with butter or jelly is breakfast perfection.
🍽 Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This vintage-style bread shines on its own, but here’s how to take it up a notch:
- Slather with jam or honey for a PB&J-style snack
- Top with banana slices for a protein-packed breakfast
- Serve warm with butter for a nostalgic treat with your afternoon tea
Pair it with other peanut butter favorites:
- The Best Peanut Butter Brownies for a fudgy follow-up
- No-Bake Peanut Butter Oatmeal Bars for a snack-ready companion
- Chocolate Chip Banana Bread to round out your nostalgic baking lineup
- Edible Cookie Dough for spoonable sweet relief
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs for indulgent layering
🧊 Storage & Freezer Tips
- Room temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Fridge: Keeps well refrigerated for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Toast straight from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge.
🥜 More Recipes You’ll Love
Can’t get enough old-school dessert flavor? Try these next:
Final Thoughts
This 1940s Peanut Butter Bread is more than just a recipe—it’s a reminder of how simple ingredients can make something truly comforting and special. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s the kind of bake that feeds the soul as much as it feeds the belly.
Made it? Tag @chefmaniac and show off your loaf! Bonus points if you enjoy it while listening to swing jazz or sipping a classic cup of coffee ☕❤️
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