Hawaiian Banana Bread Recipe

If you’re craving a slice of paradise, this Hawaiian banana bread recipe is exactly what you need! Bursting with tropical flavors like ripe bananas, pineapple, and coconut, this bread is moist, sweet, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, this easy recipe is sure to impress.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the best Hawaiian banana bread right in your kitchen!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love Hawaiian Banana Bread
Hawaiian banana bread takes the traditional banana bread we all love and adds a tropical twist. This recipe includes ingredients like crushed pineapple and shredded coconut, making it irresistibly flavorful.
Key Highlights:
- Super moist and soft texture.
- Packed with tropical flavors.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients.
- Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
Ingredients for Hawaiian Banana Bread
Before you start, gather these simple and accessible ingredients:
- Ripe bananas (3 medium): The riper, the better for added sweetness.
- Crushed pineapple (1 cup): Drained to avoid excess moisture.
- Shredded coconut (½ cup): Adds a delicious tropical flavor.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): Provides structure to the bread.
- Granulated sugar (¾ cup): Adds sweetness.
- Brown sugar (¼ cup): Adds depth and a hint of molasses.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup): Melted and cooled.
- Eggs (2 large): Help bind everything together.
- Baking soda (1 tsp): Ensures a fluffy texture.
- Salt (½ tsp): Balances the flavors.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances the taste.
Optional Add-ins:
- Macadamia nuts (½ cup): For added crunch.
- Chopped mango or papaya (½ cup): For an extra tropical touch.
PREPARATION
Here’s a detailed preparation guide for making Hawaiian banana bread. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a moist, flavorful loaf in no time!
Preparation Time Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55-65 minutes
- Cooling Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
- Gather Ingredients and Tools
Make sure all ingredients are measured and ready to use. This ensures a smooth baking process. You’ll also need:
- A large mixing bowl and a medium mixing bowl.
- A whisk or fork for mixing.
- A 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Parchment paper (optional) for easy removal.
- Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Allow it to fully preheat while you prepare the batter.
- Prepare the Loaf Pan
- Grease your loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. Alternatively, line it with parchment paper, letting the edges hang over the sides for easy lifting.
- Mash the Bananas
- Peel the bananas and place them in a large mixing bowl. Use a fork or potato masher to mash them until smooth with small chunks. This step enhances the flavor and moisture of the bread.
- Prepare the Pineapple
- Drain the crushed pineapple thoroughly. Press it gently with a spoon or paper towel to remove excess juice. Too much liquid can make your bread soggy.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients
- Add melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and drained pineapple to the mashed bananas. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these ingredients beforehand ensures even distribution.
- Fold the Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula. Mix until just combined. Overmixing can result in a dense loaf.
- Add Coconut and Extras
- Fold in the shredded coconut and any optional add-ins like macadamia nuts or chopped mango. These extras give the bread added texture and flavor.
- Pour the Batter
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for even baking.
- Bake the Bread
- Place the loaf pan in the center of the oven and bake for 55-65 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready!
- Cool and Slice
- Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Bonus Tips for Better Results
- Use overripe bananas for the sweetest flavor.
- Avoid opening the oven door during baking, as this can cause the bread to sink.
- For a beautiful golden crust, sprinkle shredded coconut on top before baking.
This preparation method ensures you’ll achieve bakery-level Hawaiian banana bread every time. Happy baking!
How to Make Hawaiian Banana Bread
Follow these simple steps to bake your tropical banana bread to perfection.
- Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Mash the Bananas
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. This creates the base of your bread.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients
Add the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and drained pineapple to the mashed bananas. Stir until well combined.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, sugars, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Overmixing can make the bread dense.
- Add Coconut and Optional Add-ins
Fold in the shredded coconut and any optional add-ins like macadamia nuts or chopped tropical fruits.
- Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Hawaiian Banana Bread
- Use ripe bananas: The darker the peel, the sweeter the banana.
- Drain the pineapple: Excess liquid can make the bread too wet.
- Don’t overmix: Stirring too much can result in a dense texture.
- Customize the recipe: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for variety.

Hawaiian Banana Bread Recipe
FAQs about Hawaiian Banana Bread Recipe
Can I make Hawaiian banana bread gluten-free?
Yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it’s suitable for baking.
How do I store Hawaiian banana bread?
Store your bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I substitute the butter with oil?
Absolutely! Use an equal amount of vegetable oil or coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
What’s the best way to serve Hawaiian banana bread?
Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey for an extra treat.
Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes! Divide the batter into muffin tins and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes.
Conclusion
This Hawaiian banana bread recipe is your ticket to a tropical escape! With its moist texture, sweet banana flavor, and tropical twist from pineapple and coconut, it’s a must-try for anyone who loves baking.
Get your ingredients ready and start baking your way to paradise! For more inspiration and variations on this recipe, check out this guide on banana bread variations.
Enjoy the sweet taste of Hawaii in every bite!