Hawaiian Banana Bread With Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts Recipe

Tropical Paradise: Hawaiian Banana Bread Recipe That Wows Everyone

Hawaiian banana bread transports you to a sun-drenched paradise with its vibrant blend of tropical ingredients.

Ripe bananas form the rich, velvety foundation of this delectable baked delight.

Chunks of sweet pineapple nestle throughout the soft crumb, creating unexpected bursts of tangy brightness.

Shredded coconut and crunchy macadamia nuts weave together a symphony of textural contrasts that dance across your palate.

Each slice tells a story of island warmth and culinary creativity, inviting you to savor a moment of pure indulgence.

The aroma alone promises an escape from the ordinary, hinting at exotic landscapes and leisurely afternoons.

Prepare to embark on a delicious journey that celebrates the essence of tropical comfort.

Top Tips for a Moist, Flavor-Packed Banana Bread

Top Tips for a Moist, Flavor-Packed Banana Bread
  • Toast Nuts Perfectly: Gently heat macadamia nuts in a dry skillet, stirring constantly to prevent burning and ensure an even golden-brown color that enhances their rich, buttery flavor.
  • Prevent Overmixing: Stir wet and dry ingredients just until combined, stopping when no flour streaks remain to keep the bread tender and avoid developing tough gluten.
  • Drain Pineapple Wisely: Lightly press crushed pineapple to remove excess moisture, which helps maintain the bread's ideal texture and prevents sogginess.
  • Check Doneness Accurately: Insert a thin knife or toothpick into the center of the bread; it should come out with just a few moist crumbs, indicating perfect baking.
  • Cool Completely Before Slicing: Let the bread rest on a wire rack for at least an hour, allowing it to set and develop a more complex flavor profile before cutting.

The Best Way to Store and Warm Up Tropical Banana Bread

  • Store and Reheat Leftovers
  • Refrigeration: Place cooled banana bread in an airtight container or wrap tightly with plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Seal the container completely to keep out any potential odors.
  • Freezing: Slice the bread into individual portions before freezing. Wrap each slice separately in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for quick enjoyment.
  • Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for a soft, fresh-baked feel.

Tasty Pairings for Hawaiian Banana Bread

  • Pair with Tropical Mocktail: Blend fresh pineapple juice, coconut water, and a splash of lime for a refreshing drink that mirrors the bread's Hawaiian flavors.
  • Enhance with Creamy Spread: Whip together softened cream cheese, honey, and toasted coconut flakes to create a delectable topping that complements the bread's nutty and fruity profile.
  • Serve Alongside Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoop smooth vanilla bean ice cream next to a warm slice of bread, letting the cold creaminess contrast with the bread's rich, dense texture.
  • Match with Hawaiian Coffee: Brew a medium-roast Kona coffee with hints of caramel and nutty undertones to elevate the bread's tropical essence and provide a warm, smooth accompaniment.

Tropical Twists for Hawaiian Banana Bread Fans

  • Tropical Banana Nut Bread: Replace macadamia nuts with toasted pecans and add a splash of rum extract for a Caribbean-inspired flavor profile that brings warmth to every slice.
  • Gluten-Free Island Loaf: Swap traditional flour with almond flour or gluten-free blend, ensuring those with dietary restrictions can enjoy this tropical treat without compromising taste or texture.
  • Vegan Paradise Bread: Substitute eggs with mashed chia seeds, use coconut oil instead of regular oil, and add a handful of dairy-free chocolate chips for extra richness that makes this bread irresistible to plant-based food lovers.
  • Spiced Coconut Banana Bread: Incorporate ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of cardamom to elevate the flavor complexity, creating a warm and aromatic version that feels like a cozy island escape.

Why Hawaiian Banana Bread is a Taste of the Tropics

Why Hawaiian Banana Bread is a Taste of the Tropics
  • Tropical Flavor Explosion: Combines sweet bananas, tangy pineapple, and rich macadamia nuts for a mouthwatering Hawaiian-inspired taste that transports you to a sunny island paradise.
  • Texture Paradise: Delivers an incredible mix of soft, moist bread with crunchy toasted macadamia nuts and delicate coconut flakes, creating a delightful contrast in every single bite.
  • Quick and Easy Baking: Requires minimal prep time and basic ingredients, making this recipe perfect for novice bakers or anyone craving a delicious homemade treat without complicated techniques.

Ingredients That Give Hawaiian Banana Bread Its Island Vibe

  • All-Purpose Flour: Structural base for the bread, provides necessary texture and stability.
  • Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Essential leavening agents that help bread rise and create soft, fluffy texture.
  • Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness.
  • Eggs: Binding agent that provides structure and richness to the bread.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds warm, sweet background flavor to complement other ingredients.
  • Vegetable Oil: Ensures moisture and tenderness in the bread.
  • Ripe Bananas: Primary moisture source with natural sweetness and distinct flavor.
  • Crushed Pineapple: Adds tropical moisture and tangy sweetness to the bread.
  • Macadamia Nuts: Provides rich, buttery crunch and authentic Hawaiian character.
  • Unsweetened Coconut Flakes: Offers tropical texture and subtle nutty flavor.
  • Granulated Sugar: Primary sweetener that balances other flavors and helps with browning.

How to Bake Hawaiian Banana Bread That Smells Like Heaven

How to Bake Hawaiian Banana Bread That Smells Like Heaven

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a standard loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray or lightly oil to ensure easy bread removal.

Step 2: Toast Macadamia Nuts

Heat macadamia nuts in a skillet over medium heat until they turn light golden brown. Chop nuts into smaller pieces and set aside.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, combine:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Granulated sugar
  • Baking powder
  • Baking soda
  • Salt

Whisk ingredients until well blended.

Step 4: Prepare Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:
  • Eggs
  • Vanilla extract
  • Mashed ripe bananas
  • Crushed pineapple (with juice)
  • Vegetable oil

Blend until smooth and fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add dry ingredient mixture to wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Add Nutty and Coconut Texture

Gently fold in:
  • Chopped macadamia nuts
  • Unsweetened coconut flakes

Maintain batter’s light and fluffy consistency.

Step 7: Transfer to Baking Pan

Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to spread evenly and create a smooth top.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake in preheated oven for 55-65 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a knife – it should come out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Let bread cool in pan for 10 minutes. Transfer to wire rack and allow to cool completely before slicing and serving.

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Hawaiian Banana Bread With Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts Recipe

Hawaiian Banana Bread With Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts Recipe


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4.6 from 21 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 10 1x

Description

Tropical Hawaiian Banana Bread celebrates island flavors with a delightful blend of ripe bananas, sweet pineapple, crunchy macadamia nuts, and shredded coconut. Lush ingredients meld together, creating a mouthwatering quick bread that transports taste buds to paradise with each delectable slice.


Ingredients

Scale

Fruits and Base Ingredients:

  • 1 cup ripe bananas (mashed)
  • 8 ounces (226 grams) crushed pineapple with juice (1 can, prefer Dole)
  • ½ cup unsweetened coconut flakes

Dry Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ cup macadamia nuts (dry roasted and chopped)

Wet Ingredients and Flavor Enhancers:

  • 2 eggs
  • ½ cup organic sunflower oil (or any tasteless oil)
  • ¼ tablespoon organic sunflower oil (or any tasteless oil)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray or vegetable oil to ensure easy bread removal.
  2. Toast macadamia nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until they turn golden brown, releasing their rich aroma. Remove from heat, roughly chop, and set aside.
  3. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until uniformly combined.
  4. In a separate large bowl, whisk together eggs, vanilla extract, mashed ripe bananas, crushed pineapple (including its juice), and vegetable oil until smooth and well-integrated.
  5. Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently to maintain a light, airy texture. Mix just until the flour disappears to prevent overmixing.
  6. Delicately fold in the toasted, chopped macadamia nuts and unsweetened coconut flakes, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and create a level surface.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 55 to 65 minutes. Test for doneness by inserting a thin knife or toothpick into the center – it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
  9. Remove from oven and let the bread rest in the pan for 10 minutes to allow initial cooling and prevent breaking.
  10. Carefully transfer the bread to a wire cooling rack, allowing it to cool completely before slicing to maintain its structural integrity.

Notes

  • Toasted macadamia nuts add a delightful crunch and rich, buttery flavor that elevates this tropical bread from ordinary to extraordinary.
  • Crushed pineapple brings natural sweetness and moisture, ensuring each slice remains tender and bursting with Hawaiian-inspired goodness.
  • Unsweetened coconut flakes weave a subtle tropical texture throughout the bread, creating unexpected pockets of island-like delight.
  • Overripe bananas work magic by providing natural sweetness and creating an incredibly soft, moist bread that practically melts in your mouth.
  • Combining fresh ingredients transforms a simple quick bread into a vacation-worthy treat that transports you straight to a sunny Hawaiian beach with every bite.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Hawaiian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 10
  • Calories: 232 kcal
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 175mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 29g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 43mg
Julian Park

Julian Park

Co-Founder, Cuisine Researcher & Food Culture Writer

Expertise

  • Global Food Cultures & Culinary History
  • Regional Flavor Profiles & Cooking Techniques
  • Food Anthropology & Cultural Identity
  • Culinary Research & Narrative Writing
  • Street Food Traditions & Heritage Dishes

Education

The Institute of Culinary Education (ICE), Los Angeles, CA

  • Degree: Certificate in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Professional culinary techniques, global cuisine fundamentals, and real-world training in restaurant-style cooking and food presentation.

Julian Park is a natural storyteller at The Dream Café who blends hands-on culinary experience with a passion for exploring global food traditions. A graduate of The Institute of Culinary Education in Los Angeles, Julian combines professional technique with a love for cultural discovery, diving into how dishes reflect heritage, migration, and identity. 

His work spans everything from in-depth cuisine guides to reflections on everyday meals around the world. With a curious palate and a journal always close by, Julian helps readers connect with food in a way that feels so insightful and personal.

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