Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that brings the sunshine of the islands right into your kitchen, then you’re in for a delightful surprise with my Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts. This recipe is not just any banana bread; it’s a tropical twist that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with juicy pineapple and crunchy macadamia nuts. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want to whip up something quick, or for family gatherings where everyone will be asking for seconds.

I cherish this recipe because it reminds me of lazy summer days spent on the beach, savoring every bite of a delicious snack. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make! You’ll find that this Hawaiian-inspired banana bread is a hit with both kids and adults alike. So grab your ingredients, and let’s bake something magical!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tropical Flavor: The combination of pineapple, coconut, and macadamia nuts creates an irresistible taste that transports you straight to Hawaii.
• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and common ingredients, baking this bread is a breeze even for beginners.
• Family-Friendly: It’s a delicious way to get kids involved in the kitchen while they learn about baking!
• Make-Ahead Delight: This banana bread keeps well, making it perfect for meal prep or as a snack throughout the week.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as breakfast, dessert, or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up – it’s good anytime!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Hawaiian-inspired banana bread, you’ll find that the ingredients are simple and wholesome. Everything you need comes together beautifully to create a moist and flavorful loaf. Gather these essentials:

Dry Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose white flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups ripe bananas (about 3 medium)
• 1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple with juice (I like Dole)
• 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp organic sunflower oil (or any tasteless oil)

Mix-Ins

• 1/2 cup macadamia nuts (dry roasted & chopped)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add Spices: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.
• Swap Nuts: If macadamia nuts aren’t available, try using walnuts or pecans instead.
• Incorporate Chocolate: Add chocolate chips for a delightful touch of sweetness.
• Use Different Fruit: Substitute crushed mango or other tropical fruits if you’re feeling adventurous!

How to Make Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your banana bread bakes evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare Your Loaf Pan

Grease your loaf pan generously so that your banana bread slides out easily after baking. A well-greased pan prevents sticking and makes serving much simpler.

Step 3: Roast the Macadamia Nuts

Dry roast your macadamia nuts in a skillet over medium heat for just a few minutes until they’re slightly browned. This step enhances their flavor and adds that delightful crunch we love!

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together thoroughly before setting aside. Mixing dry ingredients well helps ensure even distribution of flavors.

Step 5: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, ripe bananas (mashed), crushed pineapple with juice, and oil until blended smoothly. This mixture creates the moist base of your bread.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be careful not to overmix; we want our banana bread light and fluffy!

Step 7: Add in Mix-Ins

Now it’s time for those chopped macadamia nuts and coconut flakes! Fold them into the batter gently until they’re evenly distributed throughout.

Step 8: Bake Your Bread

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and pop it into the oven! Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 55-65 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want golden brown perfection!

Step 9: Test for Doneness

To check if your banana bread is done, insert a clean knife in the center. If it comes out clean without sticky batter attached, it’s ready to cool down.

Step 10: Let It Cool

Allow your beautiful Hawaiian Banana Bread to cool completely in the pan before slicing into it. This patience pays off – trust me!

Enjoy every bite of this tropical treat as you share it with friends and family!

Pro Tips for Making Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts

Baking this delightful Hawaiian Banana Bread is a breeze, and a few handy tips can make it even better!

• Use overripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Plus, they’ll mash easier, creating a smoother batter.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined helps keep your banana bread moist and tender. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.

• Opt for room temperature ingredients: Let your eggs and oil come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create an even batter that rises perfectly in the oven.

• Check for doneness properly: Use a toothpick or knife inserted into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached, your bread is ready!

• Let it cool completely: Allowing your banana bread to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack ensures it holds its shape and slices beautifully.

How to Serve Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts

Serving your Hawaiian Banana Bread can be as fun as baking it! Here are some ideas to present this delicious treat that will wow your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh pineapple: A sprinkle of fresh pineapple on top adds a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the tropical theme.

• Toasted coconut flakes: Sprinkle some extra toasted coconut on top for added crunch and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Tropical fruit salad: A colorful mix of mango, kiwi, and berries pairs wonderfully with the banana bread, enhancing its tropical vibe.

• Greek yogurt with honey: Creamy yogurt drizzled with honey offers a lovely contrast to the sweet bread while adding protein and creaminess.

• Herbal tea or coffee: A warm cup of herbal tea or coffee makes for a cozy pairing, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’ll have a fantastic spread that highlights your Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. Plus, it stores well, allowing you to savor those tropical flavors anytime.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the banana bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap slices in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in an airtight container or resealable bag.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the banana bread before freezing for easy portions.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label the bag with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze within 24 hours of baking.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, remove the desired number of slices and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• For a quick option, microwave individual slices on low power for 15-20 seconds until warmed through.
• Alternatively, warm slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of crushed?

Yes! If you prefer fresh pineapple, simply chop it finely and incorporate it into the batter. Just be mindful of moisture levels as fresh fruit can vary.

How does Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts taste?

This delightful bread has a moist texture with a sweet tropical flavor profile thanks to the pineapple and coconut. The macadamia nuts add a satisfying crunch that complements the soft banana base perfectly!

Can I substitute other nuts?

Absolutely! While macadamia nuts are traditional, you can use walnuts or pecans if you prefer. Just ensure they are chopped and dry roasted for extra flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?

To make this Hawaiian Banana Bread vegan-friendly, substitute eggs with a flaxseed meal or applesauce equivalent. Use plant-based oil as well!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts! It’s not just a treat; it’s an experience that brings a taste of paradise right into your kitchen. Whether it’s for breakfast or dessert, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Enjoy baking and feel free to share your creations!