Description of this recipe
Hawaiian Banana Bread is a delightful spin on the classic banana bread, infusing the sweet, tropical flavors of pineapple and coconut. It’s moist, soft, and bursting with flavor, making it a perfect treat for breakfast, dessert, or a snack any time of the day. The addition of crushed pineapple and shredded coconut transports you to a sunny beach paradise with each bite, leaving you craving more.
Why you will love this recipe
This recipe is a wonderful way to use overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste. The flavor palette is rich and tropical, providing a refreshing twist compared to traditional banana bread. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal equipment and ingredients. Plus, the use of pineapple adds a hint of acidity that perfectly balances the sweetness of the bananas and sugar, ensuring every slice is aromatic and bursting with flavor. This Hawaiian Banana Bread is a hit not only for its taste but also for its versatility, making it a great addition to brunches, picnics, or even as a welcome gift for friends and family.
Introduction
Banana bread is a beloved classic in many households, often a symbol of comfort and nostalgia. However, during my culinary journey, I stumbled upon a delightful variation that took the traditional recipe to new heights—Hawaiian Banana Bread. This recipe draws inspiration from the beautiful islands of Hawaii, incorporating ingredients that are synonymous with tropical locales, such as crushed pineapple and shredded coconut. It’s a scrumptious way to celebrate the natural sweetness of bananas while adding an exotic twist to a cherished favorite.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, you will find this recipe to be approachable yet impressive. With every bite, you will be transported to a sunny beach with the warm breeze rustling through palm trees. Let’s dive into the details of making this tropical delight.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or macadamia nuts (optional)
- 1 large egg
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, grease your loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray or a light coat of butter. This step ensures that your bread will easily come out of the pan after baking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt. This process helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent (baking soda) and prevents any clumps of dry ingredients in your batter. Set this mixture aside for later use.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, mashed bananas, crushed pineapple (make sure you drain it well to avoid excess moisture), shredded coconut, and the beaten egg. Use a fork or whisk to blend these ingredients until they achieve a homogenous mixture. If you are adding nuts, fold them into the wet mixture at this point.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Now it’s time to bring the wet and dry mixtures together. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to overmix; you want the ingredients to be just combined without any visible dry flour.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with the spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the bread as baking times can vary depending on your oven’s temperature calibration.
Step 6: Cool
Once baked, remove the loaf pan from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes before transferring the bread to a wire rack. This cooling step is crucial as it helps the bread firm up, making it easier to slice.
COOKING Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)
This Hawaiian Banana Bread is a proven crowd-pleaser with its moist texture and tropical flavor profile!
Serving Suggestions:
Hawaiian Banana Bread can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Serve it plain, or for an elevated experience, spread a little cream cheese or butter on each slice. It pairs wonderfully with a tropical fruit salad or a cup of freshly brewed coffee. For special occasions, consider toasting slices, adding a topping of coconut whipped cream, and garnishing with fresh pineapple chunks for stunning presentation!
Tips:
- Banana Ripeness: The riper the bananas, the better! Look for bananas with plenty of freckles and a few brown spots for maximum sweetness and flavor.
- Storage: Keep your Hawaiian Banana Bread wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
50-60 minutes
Total Time:
1 hour 15 minutes
Nutritional Information (per slice, assuming 10 slices):
- Calories: 190
- Protein: 2.5g
- Sodium: 60mg
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hawaiian Banana Bread invites you to indulge in a slice of paradise right in your own kitchen. The delightful harmony of sweet bananas, tangy pineapple, and shredded coconut will make this bread a favorite among family and friends. Whether served at breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or as a dessert, it is sure to impress. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy the sweet, tropical flavors that will brighten your day!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
Q1: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A1: Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Just make sure to chop it finely and drain any excess juice to avoid adding too much moisture to the batter.
Q2: Is there a substitute for the egg in this recipe?
A2: You can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) or unsweetened applesauce for a vegan option.
Q3: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A3: To make this Hawaiian Banana Bread gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend.
Q4: Can I add more mix-ins to the bread?
A4: Absolutely! Dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins, or even chocolate chips, can be added to the batter for extra flavor and texture.
Q5: How can I tell when the bread is done baking?
A5: Insert a toothpick or a knife into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), your bread is done! Adding a few minutes can enhance the flavor further if necessary.
