Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts

If you’re looking for a tropical twist on a classic favorite, you’ve come to the right place! Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts is not just any banana bread; it’s a slice of paradise that brings the flavors of Hawaii right into your kitchen. This recipe has been a cherished part of my family gatherings, perfect for breakfast or dessert. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special brunch with friends, this banana bread will surely impress!

The combination of sweet ripe bananas, juicy crushed pineapple, and crunchy macadamia nuts creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, the addition of coconut flakes adds that delightful hint of the tropics. Trust me, once you bake this bread, it will become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This recipe comes together quickly and requires minimal effort. Perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this sweet treat. It’s great for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can easily prepare this banana bread in advance. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together!
• Deliciously unique: The blend of pineapple, coconut, and macadamia nuts makes this banana bread stand out from the crowd.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts features simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have at home! Let’s gather everything we need to create this delightful treat.

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 (mashed)
• 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, allowing you to customize it based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add chocolate chips: For an extra touch of sweetness, fold in some dark chocolate chips before baking.
• Try different nuts: If you’re not a fan of macadamia nuts, swap them out for walnuts or pecans for a different crunch.
• Experiment with spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to your banana bread.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those avoiding gluten.

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures your banana bread bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare Your Loaf Pan

Grease your loaf pan well. This step is crucial as it prevents the bread from sticking when it’s time to slice up your masterpiece.

Step 3: Roast Your Macadamia Nuts

Dry roast your macadamia nuts in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes until they are slightly browned. This process enhances their flavor and gives them an irresistible crunch!

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In one bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until well mixed. Setting aside these dry ingredients helps ensure an even distribution later in the batter.

Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together eggs, vanilla extract, mashed bananas, crushed pineapple (with juice), and oil until fully blended. Combining these ingredients well is key to achieving that moist texture we love in banana bread.

Step 6: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Pour the dry mixture into the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our banana bread light and fluffy!

Step 7: Add Mix-Ins

Gently fold in the chopped macadamia nuts and coconut flakes into the batter. Again, avoid overmixing; we want those delicious chunks throughout without making the batter tough.

Step 8: Bake Your Bread

Pour the mixture into your prepared loaf pan and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a clean knife comes out without sticky batter attached.

Step 9: Cool Before Slicing

Once baked, allow your Hawaiian Banana Bread to cool completely before slicing it up. This patience will result in cleaner slices and more enjoyable bites!

Enjoy every bite of this tropical delight!

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

Baking is all about love and a little know-how! Here are some tips to ensure your Hawaiian banana bread turns out perfectly every time.

• Use overripe bananas – The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots or even fully brown skins for that delicious caramelized flavor.

• Don’t overmix the batter – Mixing too much can lead to dense banana bread. Just mix until everything is combined; a few lumps are totally fine!

• Let the nuts cool before chopping – This helps maintain their crunchiness and prevents them from becoming soggy in the batter. Plus, the aroma of freshly roasted nuts adds an irresistible touch!

• Check for doneness with a toothpick – Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean (or with just a few crumbs), it’s ready! This ensures you won’t end up with undercooked or overly dry bread.

• Cool completely before slicing – Patience is key! Allowing your banana bread to cool completely helps it set and makes slicing easier without crumbling.

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

Serving your Hawaiian banana bread can be as delightful as baking it! Here are some fun ideas for presentation that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top for an extra tropical flair that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Fresh Fruit: Add a few slices of fresh pineapple or banana on the side to enhance the fruity theme of your dish.
• Mint Leaves: A sprig of mint not only looks beautiful but adds a refreshing aroma that brightens up your serving plate.

Side Dishes

• Yogurt Parfait: A creamy yogurt parfait layered with granola and fresh fruit makes a lovely breakfast companion, adding tanginess and crunch.
• Tropical Smoothie: Blend together some tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, and banana with coconut milk for a refreshing drink that pairs perfectly with this sweet bread.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits can balance out the richness of the banana bread. Try including kiwi, berries, or citrus for a colorful mix!
• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea serves as an excellent beverage pairing, enhancing the flavors of your yummy banana bread while giving you that cozy vibe.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re ready to make and enjoy an amazing loaf of Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy its tropical flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the banana bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness.
• Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, consider refrigerating it for up to a week.

Freezing

• Slice the banana bread before freezing for easy access.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag.
• Label the bag with the date. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw the slices overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy them!

Reheating

• To reheat slices, you can use a microwave for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Alternatively, warm them in an oven preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes.
• Enjoy your banana bread warm, perhaps with a pat of vegan butter or a drizzle of honey!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts.

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of crushed pineapple?

Absolutely! You can chop fresh pineapple into small pieces and use it instead of crushed pineapple. Just ensure it’s well-drained if it’s juicy.

What makes Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts special?

This recipe combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with tropical flavors from crushed pineapple and coconut, along with a delightful crunch from macadamia nuts. It’s a unique twist on traditional banana bread that transports you straight to paradise!

Can I substitute other nuts in this recipe?

Yes! If you’re not a fan of macadamia nuts, feel free to replace them with walnuts or pecans. Just note that this will change the flavor slightly but still be delicious.

How do I know when my banana bread is done?

You can check if your Hawaiian Banana Bread is done by inserting a toothpick or knife into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it’s ready!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts as much as I do! It’s not just a treat for breakfast or brunch; it’s also an uplifting snack that brings a splash of sunshine into your day. So gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!