Hawaiian Banana Bread combines the tropical flavors of pineapple and coconut with the classic comfort of banana bread. This delightful bread is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. It’s easy to make and will transport your taste buds to the islands. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 very ripe banana, mashed
- 8 ounces 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 Oven and Prepare Pan
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Pan:
- Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Add Banana and Pineapple:
- Stir in the mashed banana and the crushed pineapple (including the juice) until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 4: Add Coconut and Prepare for Baking
- Stir in Coconut:
- Gently fold in the shredded coconut until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Transfer to Pan:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
- Cool:
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cook’s Notes:
- Bananas: Ensure your banana is very ripe for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Pineapple: Using crushed pineapple with its juice adds moisture and tropical flavor. If you prefer less sweetness, you can slightly drain the pineapple.
- Coconut: For extra flavor, you can lightly toast the shredded coconut before adding it to the batter.
Variations:
Nutty Hawaiian Banana Bread:
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped macadamia nuts or walnuts to the batter for a crunchy texture.
Gluten-Free Version:
- Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in a 1:1 ratio.
Tropical Fruit Mix:
- Add 1/4 cup of diced mango or papaya along with the banana and pineapple for a fruitier bread.
Chocolate Chip Hawaiian Banana Bread:
- Fold in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips for a sweeter, indulgent twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen bananas? A: Yes, frozen bananas work well in this recipe. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
Q: Can I make this bread ahead of time? A: Absolutely! This bread stays moist and flavorful for several days. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
Q: Can I freeze Hawaiian Banana Bread? A: Yes, you can freeze this bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Q: What can I use instead of shredded coconut? A: If you’re not a fan of coconut, you can omit it or replace it with chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit.
Q: How do I know when the bread is done? A: The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
Hawaiian Banana Bread is a delightful and easy recipe that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. The combination of bananas, pineapple, and coconut creates a moist and flavorful bread that’s perfect for any time of day. Whether you stick to the original recipe or try one of the variations, this bread is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy your delicious homemade Hawaiian Banana Bread!
