Name: Hawaiian Banana Nut Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 3 large eggs (lightly beaten); 2 cups mashed bananas ((about 4-5 medium bananas)); 1 cup canola oil; 1 Tbsp vanilla extract; 2 tsp coconut extract; 1 8-oz can crushed pineapple (drained); 3 cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups sugar; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1 cup chopped pecans; 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut; ½ cup turbinado sugar (for topping)

The delightful combination of flavors in Hawaiian Banana Nut Bread makes it a standout treat that brings a taste of the tropics right to your kitchen. This bread is not just a traditional banana bread; it’s an explosion of flavor with the addition of crushed pineapple, coconut, and pecans. Moist, sweet, and utterly satisfying, it’s perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a special spot in your baking repertoire.

Why It Deserves a Spot

Hawaiian Banana Nut Bread is a true tropical escape. The rich banana flavor is perfectly complemented by the sweetness of crushed pineapple and the crunch of pecans. The addition of coconut adds a unique twist that transports you to a sunny beach with each bite. This bread is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it a perfect choice for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use up overripe bananas—no more wasted fruit!

What’s in the Bowl

To create this tropical delight, you will need the following ingredients:

3 eggs, lightly beaten
2 cups mashed bananas (about 4-5 medium bananas)
1 cup canola oil
1 Tbsp vanilla extract
2 tsp coconut extract
1 (8-oz) can crushed pineapple, drained
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups sugar
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
1 cup chopped pecans
1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
½ cup turbinado sugar for topping

Tools of the Trade

Before you start baking, gather these essential tools:

Mixing bowls: A large bowl for wet ingredients and a separate one for dry ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to a perfect loaf.
Whisk: For combining ingredients smoothly.
Rubber spatula: Great for folding ingredients together.
Loaf pan: A standard 9×5-inch loaf pan works best for this recipe.
Cooling rack: To cool the bread after baking and prevent sogginess.

Cooking Hawaiian Banana Nut Bread: The Process

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s get to the exciting part—baking! Follow these steps for a perfect Hawaiian Banana Nut Bread.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bread bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan

Grease your 9×5-inch loaf pan with a bit of canola oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the lightly beaten eggs, mashed bananas, canola oil, vanilla extract, coconut extract, and drained crushed pineapple until well combined.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This helps to aerate the flour and evenly distribute the baking soda.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a rubber spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!

Step 6: Fold in Add-Ins

Gently fold in the chopped pecans and shredded coconut until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Pour and Top

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the turbinado sugar on top for a crunchy, sweet crust.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly cracked.

Step 9: Cool

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Nutrition-Minded Tweaks

If you’re looking to make some healthier adjustments to your Hawaiian Banana Nut Bread, consider the following options:

Reduce Sugar: You can cut down the sugar by 1/2 cup without sacrificing flavor.
Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Nut Alternatives: Swap pecans for walnuts or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free version.
Oil Substitution: Use applesauce in place of some or all of the canola oil for a lighter option.

Flavor Logic

The flavor profile of Hawaiian Banana Nut Bread is a delightful blend of sweet and tropical elements. The ripe bananas provide a natural sweetness and moisture, while the crushed pineapple adds a juicy burst of flavor. Coconut enhances the tropical essence, and the cinnamon gives a warm spice that rounds out the taste beautifully. Pecans add a satisfying crunch, creating a wonderful texture that complements the soft bread. Together, these ingredients create a harmonious balance that is simply irresistible.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To ensure your Hawaiian Banana Nut Bread stays fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

Room Temperature: Store the bread wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: If you need to keep it longer, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be aware that it may dry out slightly.
Freezing: For longer storage, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it.

FAQ

Can I use frozen bananas for Hawaiian Banana Nut Bread?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the bananas and drain any excess liquid before mashing them.

Can I make this bread vegan?

Yes! You can replace the eggs with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 Tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 Tbsp water per egg) and use a plant-based oil.

Can I add other fruits to the recipe?

Feel free to experiment with other fruits like shredded carrots or chopped apples for a fun twist!

How can I enhance the coconut flavor?

You can add more shredded coconut or use coconut milk in place of some of the oil for an extra coconut kick.

Ready to Cook?

Now that you have this fantastic recipe and all the tips you need, it’s time to don your apron and start baking your Hawaiian Banana Nut Bread. The delightful aroma that will fill your kitchen as it bakes is just a preview of the deliciousness that awaits you. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a slice of paradise. Your taste buds will thank you!