Hawaiian Banana Bread

The luscious union of ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and shredded coconut transforms this humble banana bread into a dreamy, tropical treat. With a soft, moist crumb and a golden, toasty crust, each bite transports you to warm shores and sunny days. Perfect for breakfast, afternoon tea, or a light dessert, this Hawaiian Banana Bread is bursting with flavor and texture. Whether served plain or toasted with a dab of butter, it’s a versatile delight that celebrates the island-inspired magic in every slice.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 1/4 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp baking soda

• 1/4 tsp sea salt

• 2 eggs

• 1/2 cup caster sugar

• 1/3 cup vegetable oil

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed

• 1 cup crushed pineapple (not drained)

• 1.5 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/4 cup shredded unsweetened coconut

• Additional shredded coconut for topping

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease an 8″x4″ loaf pan and set aside.

2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with the caster sugar until light and well combined.

4. Add in the oil, mashed bananas, crushed pineapple, and vanilla extract. Mix well.

5. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.

6. Fold in the shredded coconut gently, without overmixing.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle extra shredded coconut on top.

8. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Slice, serve, and enjoy the tropical flavors with a hot beverage!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 299 kcal | Servings: 8 servings

The Story Behind Hawaiian Banana Bread

Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple and Coconut is not just another variation of banana bread — it’s a warm slice of island paradise on your plate. This tropical twist on a traditional comfort food has deep roots in the evolution of banana bread across cultures, and its unique flavor combination is a celebration of the lush, fruit-rich bounty of Hawaii.

Banana bread as we know it became popular in the United States in the 1930s, during the Great Depression, when wasting overripe fruit wasn’t an option. Home bakers began incorporating bananas into simple quick bread recipes, and soon, banana bread was a beloved staple. The Hawaiian variation takes this idea to the next level, adding two other iconic tropical ingredients: pineapple and coconut.

These additions don’t just enhance the flavor — they elevate the texture and aroma, resulting in a moist, dense loaf that feels luxurious with every bite. It’s like a mini vacation, baked into a loaf pan.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

There are hundreds of banana bread recipes out there, so why should this one top your list? Here’s why this Hawaiian version deserves a permanent spot in your baking rotation:

• Unparalleled Moisture: Thanks to the crushed pineapple and mashed bananas, this bread is extra moist and stays that way for days. No dry slices here!
• Balanced Sweetness: The natural sweetness of ripe bananas and pineapple means you don’t need too much added sugar. It’s sweet but not overwhelming.
• Incredible Texture: Shredded coconut adds just the right amount of chewiness and a subtle nutty crunch, enhancing every bite.
• Aromatic Appeal: From the moment it goes in the oven, your kitchen fills with the warm, tropical scent of coconut and banana—pure joy in the air.
• Versatility: Serve it for breakfast, enjoy a slice with tea or coffee, or dress it up with whipped cream or ice cream for dessert.

Healthier Than You Might Think

While banana bread isn’t traditionally classified as a health food, this recipe offers a few nutritious perks:

• Bananas: A good source of potassium, vitamin B6, and fiber. They also provide natural sweetness, reducing the need for refined sugar.
• Pineapple: Loaded with vitamin C, manganese, and antioxidants. It brings a fresh tang and tropical flair.
• Coconut: Unsweetened shredded coconut contributes healthy fats, especially medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are known for their quick energy release and metabolism support.
• No Butter Needed: This recipe uses vegetable oil instead of butter, which some may find more heart-healthy depending on dietary preferences.

Want to make it even healthier? You can easily tweak this recipe to suit specific dietary needs. Swap the all-purpose flour for whole wheat or buckwheat to increase fiber and nutrients. Use flax eggs for a vegan version. Replace caster sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a more natural sweetness.

Tips for Perfect Results Every Time

Even though this is an easy recipe, here are a few tips to make your Hawaiian Banana Bread absolutely foolproof:

• Use Overripe Bananas: The blacker the better! Overripe bananas are naturally sweeter and help create that moist texture we all love.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined. Overmixing leads to dense, tough bread.
• Drain Pineapple Carefully—but Not Too Much: You want some of the juices to remain for moisture, but too much can make the batter watery.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold eggs or oil can cause the batter to separate slightly. Let everything sit out for a few minutes before mixing.
• Customize the Topping: Add chopped macadamia nuts, crushed pecans, or extra coconut on top before baking for added crunch and visual appeal.

Creative Serving Suggestions

There’s more than one way to enjoy a loaf of this tropical delight. While it’s delicious on its own, here are a few serving ideas to take it up a notch:

• Toasted with Butter: Slice and toast lightly, then slather with salted butter for a sweet and savory bite.
• With a Dollop of Greek Yogurt: A cooling, tangy contrast to the warm, sweet loaf.
• Add a Tropical Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, pineapple juice, and a touch of vanilla for a sweet drizzle.
• Serve with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream makes this a luxurious dessert.
• Make French Toast: Use leftover slices to make banana bread French toast for a decadent weekend breakfast.

How to Store and Freeze

One of the best parts about this banana bread is how well it stores and travels. Whether you’re gifting it, saving leftovers, or prepping ahead, here’s what to do:

• At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.
• In the Fridge: Wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 5–6 days. The flavors develop beautifully over time.
• Freezing: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Keeps well for up to 2 months. To serve, just thaw at room temp or warm gently in the microwave.

Adapting for Special Diets

This Hawaiian Banana Bread recipe is flexible and forgiving. Here are some simple swaps to fit different dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or buckwheat flour. Just be sure to check if your baking powder is also gluten-free.
• Vegan: Use flax eggs instead of regular eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg). Ensure your sugar is vegan-approved.
• Lower Sugar: Use coconut sugar, or reduce the sugar slightly if your bananas are super ripe.
• Nut-Free Option: The recipe is naturally nut-free unless you choose to add macadamia or other nuts for extra crunch.

The Joy of Tropical Comfort Baking

What sets this banana bread apart from classic versions is how much comfort it delivers while also feeling a little more festive. It’s perfect for spring and summer baking, or for brightening up colder months with the flavors of sunshine and sand.

It’s also an ideal bake for sharing. Whether it’s a housewarming gift, a school treat, or something to take to a brunch gathering, this banana bread is guaranteed to disappear fast. And when people ask you what makes it so good, you can tell them: “It’s the pineapple and coconut — pure island magic!”

Conclusion

Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple and Coconut is the kind of recipe that combines simplicity with stunning results. With minimal prep, pantry-friendly ingredients, and the ability to transport your senses to a tropical oasis, it’s no surprise that this loaf has become a favorite in many kitchens.

Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or guests, this loaf offers warmth, sweetness, and a touch of exotic charm. It’s the kind of recipe that doesn’t just feed your hunger—it lifts your mood and makes every moment just a little more joyful.

So go ahead, preheat that oven, grab those ripe bananas, and say “aloha” to your new favorite quick bread.