Imagine a warm, comforting loaf of banana bread, infused with the sunny flavors of a tropical paradise. That’s exactly what you get with Hawaiian Banana Bread—a delightful variation on a beloved classic that brings a touch of the tropics right into your kitchen. This recipe blends the rich, moist texture of traditional banana bread with the sweet and tangy essence of pineapple and the subtle crunch of coconut, creating a unique and irresistible treat.
I first encountered this tropical twist on banana bread during a family vacation in Hawaii. We were staying in a charming bed and breakfast, and every morning, we were greeted with freshly baked goods that showcased the island’s abundant flavors. The pineapple and coconut in the banana bread were a revelation, transforming a familiar comfort food into something exotic and exciting. Inspired by that experience, I set out to recreate this delicious treat at home, and I’m thrilled to share it with you. This Hawaiian Banana Bread is perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or even a sweet treat after dinner. Its vibrant flavors and moist texture will transport you straight to the islands, no matter where you are.
Ingredients
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
2 large eggs
1 very ripe banana, mashed
1 cup crushed pineapple (do not drain)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup shredded coconut
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Prepare the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature for even baking. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent the bread from sticking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
Cream Together: In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream together 1/2 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of sugar. Beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the butter, which helps to create a light, tender crumb in the bread.
Add Eggs: Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, to the creamed butter and sugar. Beat each egg well before adding the next. This ensures that the eggs are fully incorporated and helps to create a smooth batter.
Step 3: Incorporate Banana and Pineapple
Add Banana and Pineapple: Stir in 1 very ripe banana, mashed, and 1 cup of crushed pineapple (make sure not to drain the pineapple). The mashed banana adds moisture and sweetness, while the pineapple brings a tangy, tropical flavor to the bread.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
Sift Dry Ingredients: In a separate, medium-sized bowl, sift together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Sifting helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and ensures a uniform texture in the final bread.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense loaf. The batter should be thick but smooth.
Stir in Coconut: Gently fold in 1/4 cup of shredded coconut. The coconut adds a subtle crunch and a hint of tropical flavor that complements the banana and pineapple.
Step 6: Bake the Banana Bread
Pour Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.
Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the bread as it bakes.
Cool: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This cooling step allows the bread to set and makes it easier to slice.
Variations and Substitutions
Add Nuts: For extra texture and flavor, consider adding 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter. Nuts provide a delightful crunch and complement the tropical flavors of the bread.
Use Different Fruits: While this recipe features pineapple, you can experiment with other fruits such as mango or papaya for a different tropical twist. Just ensure that the fruit is well-drained to avoid adding excess moisture to the batter.
Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to use a blend that includes xanthan gum or guar gum to help mimic the texture of traditional flour.
Dairy-Free Alternative: For a dairy-free version, replace the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine. Use a plant-based milk, such as almond or coconut milk, in place of any dairy milk if needed.
Spices: Add a pinch of warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for an extra layer of flavor. These spices enhance the tropical elements and add depth to the bread.
Summary
Hawaiian Banana Bread is a delightful fusion of familiar comfort and exotic flavors. The combination of ripe bananas, tangy pineapple, and sweet coconut creates a loaf that’s both moist and flavorful. This recipe is not only easy to make but also versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your preferences. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat, a snack, or a dessert, this banana bread brings a touch of tropical paradise to your table. Its inviting aroma, tender crumb, and vibrant flavors make it a favorite for any occasion. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and savor the taste of this delicious Hawaiian-inspired treat.
