This Tropical Hawaiian Banana Bread is a fun twist on a classic favorite! It’s super moist with ripe bananas, juicy pineapple, and crunchy nuts, making each bite a flavorful adventure.
Whenever I bake this bread, my kitchen smells like a sunny island getaway. 🏝️ I love slathering a slice with butter for a tasty treat or enjoying it warm right out of the oven!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: Use ripe bananas to ensure your bread is sweet and moist. The more spots on the peel, the better! If you don’t have ripe bananas, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag for a day or two.
Pineapple: Crushed pineapple adds moisture and a burst of flavor. If fresh pineapple is handy, you can chop it up finely as a substitute, but remember to drain it well.
Nuts: I prefer walnuts for their mild flavor, but macadamia nuts give a lovely crunch that’s perfect for this tropical recipe. If you need a nut-free option, just leave them out or try sunflower seeds.
Coconut: Shredded coconut adds great texture and a tropical flair. It’s optional, but I think it makes the bread extra special. If you’re not a fan, skip it without worry.
How Do I Make Sure My Banana Bread Stays Moist?
To keep your Tropical Hawaiian Banana Bread moist, follow these important tips:
- Use very ripe bananas, as they provide natural sweetness and moisture.
- Don’t overmix the batter; gently fold just until combined. This helps to keep the bread tender.
- Make sure your pineapple is well-drained. Too much liquid can lead to soggy bread.
- Check for doneness early. Ovens can vary, so check your bread at the 60-minute mark.
Following these tips will help you achieve a deliciously moist banana bread every time!
Tropical Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple and Nuts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- ½ cup crushed pineapple, drained
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Extras:
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or macadamia nuts
- Optional: ¼ cup shredded coconut (for extra tropical flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Tropical Hawaiian Banana Bread takes about 20 minutes to prepare and will need 60-70 minutes to bake. After that, give it a few minutes to cool before slicing into it. Total time including cooling will be around 1 hour and 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This helps to evenly distribute the baking soda and spices throughout the flour.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork. Add in the drained crushed pineapple, granulated sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix everything thoroughly until it’s all smooth and well combined.
4. Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures:
Gradually add the dry ingredients from the first bowl into the wet mixture. Use a spatula to fold the ingredients together gently, mixing just until combined. Remember, a little lumpiness is okay—overmixing can make the bread tough!
5. Add the Goodies:
Now it’s time to fold in the chopped nuts and shredded coconut if you choose to use it. This adds a delightful crunch and flavor to your banana bread.
6. Bake the Bread:
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with the spatula. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when it’s ready.
7. Cool & Enjoy:
Once baked, let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. When you’re ready, slice it up and enjoy your Tropical Hawaiian Banana Bread with a cup of tea or coffee!
This is sure to be a favorite in your home, so happy baking!
Can I Use Brown Sugar Instead of Granulated Sugar?
Absolutely! Brown sugar will add a richer flavor and extra moisture to the banana bread. Just substitute it in a 1:1 ratio for granulated sugar.
What Can I Substitute for Pineapple?
If you don’t have crushed pineapple, you can use applesauce or finely shredded carrots for moisture. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid if using applesauce.
How Should I Store Leftover Banana Bread?
Store any leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying!
Can I Add Other Fruits to This Recipe?
Yes! You can mix in other fruits like chopped mango or diced ripe pears. Just ensure they’re dry and not too juicy to maintain the consistency of the batter.
