Easy Hawaiian Banana Bread Recipe: Add Some Island Flavor to Your Baking 

Are you ready to add a tropical twist to your baking routine? This Hawaiian Banana Bread recipe is the perfect way to bring the flavors of the islands into your kitchen. Combining extra-ripe bananas with the sweetness of crushed pineapple, the texture of shredded coconut, and the richness of butter, this recipe creates a loaf that’s both flavorful and incredibly moist. It’s easy to prepare, requiring only a few simple ingredients, and best of all, it’s a quick bread that doesn’t require any special equipment or skills to make. Whether you enjoy it on its own, topped with butter, or served alongside a scoop of ice cream, this Hawaiian Banana Bread is sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients for Hawaiian Banana Bread Recipe

For the perfect loaf of Hawaiian Banana Bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 can (8 oz) of crushed pineapple in juice (do not drain)
• 1 cup of sweetened shredded coconut
• 3 extra-ripe bananas (the browner, the better for flavor)
• 1/2 cup of butter, softened
• 1 cup of plain white granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt

These ingredients combine to give the bread its signature tropical taste and tender crumb. The addition of pineapple and coconut transforms an ordinary banana bread recipe into something extraordinary. Let’s take a look at how to bring these ingredients together to make a loaf that’s bursting with island flavor.

Instructions for Making Hawaiian Banana Bread Recipe

Making this Hawaiian Banana Bread is simple. Just follow these easy steps for a perfectly baked loaf:

• Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter and sugar together on a low speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This process helps to incorporate air into the mixture, resulting in a light, fluffy texture in your banana bread.

• Add Eggs

Gently mix in the eggs, one at a time. Beat them into the butter and sugar mixture until they are fully incorporated. The eggs help to bind the ingredients together and provide moisture.

• Mix in Mashed Bananas and Pineapple

Slowly mix in the mashed bananas and the entire can of crushed pineapple, including the juice. These tropical ingredients contribute moisture and an irresistible sweetness to the bread.

• Combine Dry Ingredients

In a different bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, whisking  them  together  thoroughly. These dry ingredients are crucial for helping the bread rise properly and ensuring the loaf bakes evenly.

• Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix gently with a spatula or spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense bread. The key to a perfect loaf is to maintain a light hand with the mixing.

• Stir in Shredded Coconut

Stir in the shredded coconut by hand, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter. The coconut adds texture and enhances the tropical flavor of the bread.

• Prepare the Loaf Pan

Prepare a loaf pan by greasing it with non-stick spray or lining it with parchment paper. This ensures that your bread will come out of the pan easily after baking.

• Bake the Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for approximately 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so it’s important to check it after about 50 minutes.   

• Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the Hawaiian Banana Bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. It’s important to allow the bread to cool before cutting it, as the bread will continue to cook in the center as it cools. This helps to prevent it from becoming too crumbly.

Baking Tips

To ensure your Hawaiian Banana Bread turns out perfect every time, here are a few helpful baking tips:

• Toothpick Test: Use a toothpick to check the doneness of the bread. Insert it into the center, and if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your bread is ready. If it comes out wet, give it a little more time in the oven.
• Cooling: After removing the bread from the oven, let it cool to room temperature before removing it from the pan and cutting it. This helps the bread set and reduces the chances of it falling apart.
• Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing the batter can result in a dense loaf. Mix just until the ingredients are incorporated, and you’ll achieve a light, airy texture.

Why This Hawaiian Banana Bread is So Special

This Hawaiian Banana Bread is a tropical take on the classic banana bread. The addition of pineapple gives the bread a juicy sweetness, while the shredded coconut adds a chewy texture that complements the moistness of the ripe bananas. The bread’s sweetness is balanced by the slight tang from the pineapple, creating a loaf that’s both comforting and refreshing.

Another reason this bread stands out is its versatility. Serve it as a snack, enjoy it for breakfast with a dollop of butter, or pair it with a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert. It’s a simple recipe that brings the flavors of the islands into your kitchen.

Serving Suggestions

The possibilities for serving Hawaiian Banana Bread are endless. Here are a few ideas to enjoy this tropical treat:

• With Butter: Spread a thin layer of butter on a warm slice of banana bread. The butter will melt into the bread, creating a rich and satisfying flavor.
• With Ice Cream: For a dessert twist, serve a slice of Hawaiian Banana Bread with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream on the side. The combination of warm bread and cold ice cream is heavenly.
• As a Snack: Enjoy a slice as an afternoon snack with your favorite cup of tea or coffee. It’s a delicious way to take a break during your day.
• Toasted: Toast slices of banana bread for a crispy edge, and add a little butter or cream cheese for extra indulgence.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hawaiian Banana Bread

Can I replace fresh pineapple with canned pineapple in this recipe?

While fresh pineapple can be used, canned crushed pineapple (with juice) is ideal for this recipe. The juice from the canned pineapple adds extra moisture, making the bread softer and more flavorful. If using fresh pineapple, make sure to finely chop it and include the juice for the best results.

What if I don’t like shredded coconut? Can I substitute it?

If shredded coconut isn’t to your taste, feel free to leave it out or substitute it with chopped nuts like macadamias or walnuts, or even chocolate chips for a sweet twist. This will change the texture of the bread, but it will still be just as delicious.

Do I need to drain the pineapple before adding it?

No, you should not drain the pineapple. The juice that comes with it contributes to the moisture of the bread, making it tender and flavorful. Be sure to add the full can, juice and all!

Can frozen bananas be used in this Hawaiian Banana Bread Recipe?

Yes, frozen bananas work perfectly for this bread! In fact, frozen bananas tend to become sweeter as they thaw, giving the bread extra flavor. Simply thaw them completely before mashing and adding to the batter.

How can I make this Hawaiian Banana Bread Recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure the blend is designed for baking. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still result in a delicious loaf.

How can I make the Hawaiian Banana Bread Recipe even moister?

For an even more moist banana bread, consider adding a little more mashed banana or an extra splash of pineapple juice. You can also try incorporating a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt to help keep the bread extra moist.

Can I make this Hawaiian Banana Bread Recipe into muffins or mini loaves?

Yes, you can definitely turn this recipe into mini loaves or muffins! For mini loaves, bake for about 30-40 minutes, and for muffins, bake at 350°F for 18-22 minutes. Be sure to check doneness with a toothpick for both.

How should I store the Hawaiian Banana Bread?

Store your Hawaiian Banana Bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. To keep it for a longer period, you can refrigerate it for up to one week or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic and foil before freezing.

Is it possible to add other fruits to the bread?

Absolutely! You can experiment with other tropical fruits like mango or papaya to enhance the flavors. Just be sure to chop the fruit into small pieces, and if you add a lot of extra fruit, you may need to adjust the baking time slightly.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

To check if the bread is done, insert a toothpick or a cake tester into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready. If it comes out wet, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes and test again.

Can I double the recipe to make more loaves?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe if you want more than one loaf. Just be sure your mixing bowl is large enough to hold the increased quantity, and keep an eye on the baking time. The bread might need a little extra time to cook through, so use the toothpick test to check for doneness.

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes, Hawaiian Banana Bread is great for making ahead! It keeps for several days at room temperature and even improves in flavor as it sits. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week, or freeze it for up to 3 months.

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This Easy Hawaiian Banana Bread Recipe brings a little piece of paradise into your home with its tropical flavors of pineapple, coconut, and banana. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring only basic ingredients and minimal time. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven with a pat of butter or as a dessert topped with ice cream, this banana bread is bound to be a hit. Give it a try and experience a tropical treat that’s as easy as it is delicious. Happy baking!