Hawaiian Banana Bread Recipe

The Best Hawaiian Banana Bread Recipe for Island-Style Sweetness

Crafting a delightful hawaiian banana bread brings tropical sunshine right into your kitchen.

Sweet, ripe bananas mingle with unexpected ingredients that spark culinary magic.

Pineapple and coconut create a remarkable twist on classic comfort food.

Warm spices dance through each tender slice, promising an adventure for your taste buds.

Nostalgic yet innovative, this recipe connects traditional baking with island-inspired creativity.

Bakers seeking something extraordinary will find pure joy in every fragrant, golden-brown bite.

Prepare to embark on a delicious journey that transforms ordinary banana bread into an extraordinary treat.

Tropical Twists On Hawaiian Banana Bread

  • Gluten-Free Hawaiian Banana Bread: Replace wheat flour with almond or coconut flour for a celiac-friendly version that maintains the bread's rich tropical essence.
  • Vegan Tropical Banana Loaf: Substitute eggs with mashed banana or flax eggs, use coconut oil instead of butter, and select plant-based sour cream alternative to create a dairy-free recipe.
  • Low-Sugar Tropical Banana Bread: Swap granulated sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, reduce overall sugar content, and add extra spices like nutmeg to enhance natural sweetness.
  • Nut-Free Island Banana Bread: Remove macadamia nuts and replace with toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch without nut allergens.

What Goes Great With Hawaiian Banana Bread

  • Tropical Beverage Boost: Pair this Hawaiian banana bread with a chilled piña colada for an instant island-style flavor explosion.
  • Coffee Companion: Brew a medium-roast Hawaiian Kona coffee to complement the bread's rich tropical notes and enhance its nutty undertones.
  • Rum-Infused Delight: Serve alongside a light rum-based cocktail like a Mai Tai to amplify the bread's tropical essence and bring out its sweet, complex flavors.
  • Breakfast Sidekick: Match with a fresh tropical fruit smoothie featuring mango, pineapple, and coconut to echo the bread's ingredients and create a harmonious morning meal.

How To Store Hawaiian Banana Bread Right

  • Store wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, maintaining moisture and preventing the bread from drying out.
  • Wrap completely in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for 2-3 months, preserving its texture and flavor for later enjoyment.
  • Place parchment paper between slices, store in freezer-safe bag, and freeze up to 3 months for quick single-serving defrosting.
  • Warm refrigerated or thawed slices in microwave for 15-20 seconds, or in oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes to restore original softness and enhance flavor profile.

Hawaiian Banana Bread FAQs For Easy Baking

  • What makes this banana bread different from traditional recipes?

This Hawaiian-inspired banana bread features unique tropical ingredients like pineapple, coconut, and macadamia nuts, creating a more exotic and flavorful twist on the classic banana bread.

  • Can I substitute ingredients if I don't have all the exact items?

Yes, you can replace macadamia nuts with other nuts like almonds or walnuts, and use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream if needed. Just maintain similar moisture and fat content.

  • Is this recipe suitable for beginner bakers?

Absolutely! The recipe follows standard banana bread techniques with clear, step-by-step instructions. The folding and mixing methods are straightforward, making it accessible for those with basic baking skills.

Why Hawaiian Banana Bread Tastes Like A Tropical Hug

  • Savor Tropical Vibes: Indulge in a delightful banana bread that transports you to Hawaiian paradise with its unique blend of coconut, pineapple, and macadamia nuts.
  • Master Baking with Ease: Perfect for bakers of all skill levels, this recipe offers simple steps and forgiving techniques that guarantee a delicious result every time.
  • Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Suitable for breakfast, brunch, snacks, or dessert, this banana bread adapts to any occasion and satisfies diverse taste preferences.
  • Customize Your Creation: Easily modify the recipe by adjusting mix-ins or adding a glaze, making it a flexible and fun baking experience for creative home cooks.

Everything You’ll Need For Hawaiian Banana Bread

For the Main Ingredients:
  • Ripe Bananas: Soft, sweet bananas provide natural moisture and classic banana flavor to the bread.
  • Butter: Softened butter creates a rich, tender texture and adds depth to the bread's taste.
  • Eggs: Fresh eggs help bind the ingredients and contribute to the bread's structure.
  • Flour: All-purpose flour forms the base of the bread's structure and provides necessary texture.
For the Sweeteners:
  • Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: These sugars add sweetness and help create a soft, moist crumb.
For the Moisture and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Sour Cream: Adds moisture and creates a tender, rich texture in the banana bread.
  • Vanilla Extract: Provides a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the tropical ingredients.
For the Dry Ingredients:
  • Baking Soda: Helps the bread rise and creates a light, airy texture.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the bread.
  • Ground Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the bread's flavor profile.
For the Tropical Mix-Ins:
  • Shredded Coconut, Crushed Pineapple, Macadamia Nuts: These ingredients create a Hawaiian-inspired twist, adding texture and tropical flavor to the banana bread.

How To Make Hawaiian Banana Bread Soft And Sweet

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a cozy 350°F and give your loaf pan a generous slathering of butter or cooking spray to prevent any sticky situations.

Step 2: Banana Smash

Grab those ripe bananas and go wild in a big mixing bowl, mashing them until they’re smooth and creamy with barely a lump in sight.

Step 3: Butter and Sugar Dance

Whip the softened butter with white and brown sugars until the mixture looks light, fluffy, and ready to party.

Step 4: Egg Integration

Crack those eggs in one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to create a silky smooth base.

Step 5: Moisture Magic

Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract, blending until everything looks perfectly combined.

Step 6: Dry Ingredient Sifting

In a separate bowl, sift together:
  • Flour
  • Baking soda
  • Salt
  • Ground cinnamon

Break up any sneaky flour clumps for a smooth texture.

Step 7: Combine Wet and Dry

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture, being careful not to overmix and deflate the batter.

Step 8: Tropical Mix-In

Fold in your tropical treasures:
  • Shredded coconut
  • Crushed pineapple
  • Chopped macadamia nuts

Distribute these goodies evenly throughout the batter.

Step 9: Pan Preparation

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to smooth the top for an even bake.

Step 10: Baking Bliss

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 60-65 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out with just a few crumbs.

Step 11: Cooling Countdown

Let the bread rest in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 12: Slice and Savor

Cut into slices and enjoy the tropical paradise of this Hawaiian-inspired banana bread at room temperature.

Tips To Get Moist, Flavorful Banana Bread

  • Select Ripe Bananas: Choose overripe bananas with dark brown or black spots for maximum sweetness and intense banana flavor.
  • Prevent Overmixing: Fold dry ingredients gently into wet mixture just until combined to maintain a tender, soft bread texture without developing tough gluten.
  • Check Doneness Carefully: Test bread with a toothpick inserted near the center; it should come out clean or with minimal moist crumbs to ensure perfect baking.
  • Store Properly: Wrap cooled banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
  • Enhance Tropical Twist: Toast macadamia nuts briefly before adding to intensify their nutty flavor and create a more complex taste profile in the bread.
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Hawaiian Banana Bread Recipe

Hawaiian Banana Bread Recipe


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4.6 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 80 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Sweet Hawaiian banana bread merges tropical flavors with classic comfort, blending ripe bananas and coconut for a delightful island-inspired treat. Moist crumb and subtle rum essence invite you to savor each delectable slice of this memorable dessert.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 ripe bananas
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter

Wet Ingredients:

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Tropical Add-ins:

  • 1/2 cup shredded coconut
  • 1/4 cup crushed pineapple
  • 1/4 cup macadamia nuts, chopped
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Leavening and Seasoning:

  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and thoroughly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray.
  2. Mash the ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl until they reach a smooth, creamy consistency with minimal lumps.
  3. Cream the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, incorporating air for a tender bread texture.
  4. Whisk in eggs one at a time, blending thoroughly after each addition to ensure a uniform mixture.
  5. Fold in sour cream and vanilla extract, stirring until the wet ingredients are completely integrated.
  6. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon to eliminate any potential flour clumps.
  7. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, gently folding until just combined to prevent overmixing.
  8. Carefully incorporate shredded coconut, crushed pineapple, and chopped macadamia nuts, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
  9. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even surface.
  10. Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with minimal crumbs.
  11. Remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  12. Slice and serve at room temperature, enjoying the tropical flavors of this Hawaiian-inspired banana bread.

Notes

  • Select ultra-ripe bananas with dark brown or black speckled peels for maximum sweetness and deeper banana flavor.
  • Toast macadamia nuts briefly before chopping to enhance their buttery, rich taste and add a subtle roasted aroma to the bread.
  • Drain crushed pineapple thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from making the bread soggy and compromising its texture.
  • Consider using gluten-free flour blend as a simple swap for traditional flour, making the recipe suitable for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 65 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 15 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 45 mg
James Hambly

James Hambly

Founder & Recipe Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Education, Farm-to-Table Cooking, Southern Cuisine

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Hands-on training in professional cooking techniques, emphasizing farm-to-table practices and Southern cuisine.

The Chef’s Academy
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
Focus: Comprehensive culinary education covering global cuisines, kitchen management, and food safety.​


James grew up surrounded by the smells of cast-iron skillets and slow-cooked Southern meals in Asheville, North Carolina.
He sharpened his skills with a Certificate in Culinary Arts from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, and later leveled up with an Associate Degree from The Chef’s Academy.
James’s philosophy is simple: the best meals don’t need fancy tricks, just fresh ingredients, a hot pan, and a little bit of heart. His favorite days are spent testing one-pan wonders, chasing bold flavors, and creating recipes that feel easy, even on a busy night.

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