Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Hawaiian Banana Bread is a delicious take on the classic banana bread, filled with tropical flavors like pineapple, coconut, and macadamia nuts. This banana bread is soft, moist, and bursting with fruity flavors. It’s easy to make and sure to brighten up your day with its sweet, tropical twist. It’s perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or a comforting dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/2 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1/3 cup chopped macadamia nuts (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients
- Beat Sugars and Oil: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, whisking until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add Bananas and Pineapple: Mix in the mashed bananas and drained crushed pineapple until well incorporated.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Add Flour Mixture: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will make the bread dense.
- Fold in Coconut and Nuts: Gently fold in the shredded coconut and macadamia nuts (if using).
5. Bake the Banana Bread
- Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
- Cool: Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Cooking Notes
- Draining Pineapple: Be sure to drain the crushed pineapple well to avoid adding extra moisture to the batter, which could make the bread too wet.
- Banana Ripeness: Use overripe bananas for the best flavor. They should be soft and speckled with brown spots.
Variations
- Mango Twist: Substitute the pineapple with chopped fresh or canned mango for a different tropical twist.
- Chocolate Chip Addition: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Rum Flavor: Add 1 tablespoon of dark rum to the wet ingredients for a subtle tropical rum flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Just make sure to finely chop it and drain any excess juice to keep the bread from becoming too wet.
How do I store Hawaiian Banana Bread?
Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm treat.
Can I freeze this banana bread?
Yes, you can freeze Hawaiian Banana Bread. Wrap the bread (or individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving.
What can I serve with Hawaiian Banana Bread?
This banana bread is delicious on its own but can also be served with a spread of butter, cream cheese, or even a drizzle of honey for added sweetness.
Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes, you can make muffins with this recipe. Divide the batter evenly among lined muffin cups and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Hawaiian Banana Bread is a wonderfully moist and flavorful bread that brings a taste of the tropics to your kitchen. With crushed pineapple, coconut, and macadamia nuts, each bite is filled with the sweet, tropical flavors that make this banana bread extra special. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert.
Try this recipe for a tropical twist on classic banana bread, and enjoy the delicious taste of the islands!
