Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts
Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with tropical flavors. This bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert. Its unique blend of crushed pineapple, coconut flakes, and macadamia nuts makes it a standout choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging yourself, this Hawaiian-inspired banana bread will surely impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tropical Flavor: The combination of pineapple and coconut brings a refreshing taste that transports you to the islands.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can master this recipe.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with butter for breakfast or as a sweet treat in the afternoon.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with bananas and nuts, this recipe offers a healthier alternative to standard desserts.
- Perfect for Sharing: Slice it up for gatherings, potlucks, or gift it to friends and family.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe for Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything on hand will make baking smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Loaf pan: This shapes your banana bread perfectly while allowing it to bake evenly.
- Mixing bowls: Having separate bowls helps in organizing dry and wet ingredients efficiently.
- Whisk: A whisk ensures that your wet ingredients are mixed thoroughly without lumps.

Ingredients
To create this delicious Hawaiian treat, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose white flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups ripe bananas
- 1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple with juice (Dole preferred)
- 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp organic sunflower oil (or any tasteless oil)
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup macadamia nuts (dry roasted & chopped)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
How to Make Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This allows the banana bread to bake evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Loaf Pan
Grease your loaf pan generously using oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Roast the Macadamia Nuts
Dry roast your macadamia nuts in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they are slightly browned.
Step 4: Chop the Nuts
Once cooled, chop the roasted macadamia nuts into smaller pieces and set aside.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well and set aside.
Step 6: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine eggs, vanilla extract, ripe bananas (mashed), crushed pineapple with its juice, and sunflower oil. Mix thoroughly until smooth.
Step 7: Combine Mixtures
Add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently but avoid overmixing; some lumps are okay!
Step 8: Add Nuts and Coconut
Fold in the chopped macadamia nuts and unsweetened coconut flakes carefully into the batter.
Step 9: Pour Batter into Pan
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan evenly.
Step 10: Bake the Bread
Place in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a clean knife; it should come out clean without sticky batter.
Step 11: Cool Before Slicing
Allow your Hawaiian banana bread to cool completely in the pan before slicing into ten generous pieces.
Enjoy every bite of this flavorful Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts!
How to Serve Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts
Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts is a delightful treat that can be served in various ways to enhance its tropical flavors. Here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your experience.
For Breakfast
- Serve warm slices of banana bread with a pat of butter or coconut oil for a rich start to your day.
- Top with fresh fruit like sliced bananas or strawberries for added freshness and color.
As a Snack
- Pair the banana bread with a cup of herbal tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.
- Spread a thin layer of nut butter on top for extra protein and creaminess.
For Dessert
- Serve slices with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream for a delicious dessert.
- Drizzle honey or maple syrup over warm slices for added sweetness.
With Yogurt
- Crumble pieces of the banana bread over Greek yogurt for a filling breakfast or snack option.
- Add fresh pineapple chunks and shredded coconut on top for an island-inspired parfait.
How to Perfect Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts
Perfecting your Hawaiian Banana Bread involves attention to detail, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.
- Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots.
- Don’t overmix: Gently fold in your dry ingredients to keep the texture light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense bread.
- Check doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean when done. This prevents undercooked centers.
- Cool completely: Allow your banana bread to cool in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its structure.
- Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like chopped walnuts or dried fruit for extra flavor variations.
Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts
Pairing side dishes with Hawaiian Banana Bread can create a balanced meal or snack. Here are some fantastic options that complement its tropical flavors beautifully.
- Tropical Fruit Salad: A mix of pineapple, mango, kiwi, and berries adds freshness and brightness.
- Coconut Chia Pudding: Creamy chia pudding made with coconut milk enhances the tropical theme while providing healthy fats.
- Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a nutritious side that balances sweetness with creaminess.
- Avocado Toast: Whole grain toast topped with smashed avocado provides healthy fats and contrasts well with the sweetness of banana bread.
- Honey Roasted Nuts: A mix of roasted nuts lightly coated in honey offers crunch and complements macadamia nuts in the bread.
- Spinach Salad: A light spinach salad dressed in citrus vinaigrette adds acidity that cuts through the richness of the bread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the ripe bananas: Using unripe bananas will result in a less sweet and flavorful bread. Always choose bananas that are well-ripened with brown spots for the best taste.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to dense banana bread. Mix just until combined to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
- Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Cold ingredients can affect how well they combine. Let your eggs and any refrigerated items come to room temperature before mixing.
- Not checking for doneness: Relying solely on time can lead to undercooked or overcooked bread. Use a toothpick or knife inserted into the center; it should come out clean when ready.
- Neglecting to grease the pan: A greased loaf pan is essential to prevent sticking. Make sure you grease it well or use parchment paper for easy removal.
- Forgetting about cooling time: Cutting into the bread too soon can cause it to crumble. Allow it to cool completely in the pan before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in the container.
Freezing Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts
- Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 20-30 seconds on medium power until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid. Heat each slice for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
You can use fresh pineapple; just ensure it’s finely chopped and drained of excess juice before adding it to the batter.
How do I know if my bananas are ripe enough?
Look for bananas with brown spots on the peel; this indicates they are sweet and ready for baking.
What can I substitute for macadamia nuts?
You may replace macadamia nuts with walnuts or pecans if desired. Both alternatives add great flavor and texture.
How should I store leftover Hawaiian Banana Bread?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works well in baking.
Final Thoughts
Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts is an enticing treat perfect for breakfast or dessert. Its unique combination of flavors makes it versatile enough to suit various occasions. Feel free to customize by adding chocolate chips or dried fruits for extra sweetness!
Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts
Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple, Coconut & Macadamia Nuts is a delightful escape to tropical paradise with every bite. This moist and flavorful banana bread combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the exotic tastes of crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, and crunchy macadamia nuts. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this easy recipe will impress your family and friends at any gathering. Simply slice and enjoy warm or toasted, making it a versatile treat that pairs wonderfully with butter or can be savored on its own.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose white flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple with juice
- 1/2 cup + 1 tbsp organic sunflower oil
- 1/2 cup macadamia nuts (dry roasted & chopped)
- 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your loaf pan.
- In a skillet over medium heat, dry roast the macadamia nuts until lightly browned; then chop them once cooled.
- Mix dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in one bowl.
- In another bowl, combine eggs, vanilla extract, mashed bananas, crushed pineapple with juice, and sunflower oil until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and stir gently; fold in chopped macadamia nuts and coconut flakes.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-65 minutes. Check for doneness using a toothpick.
- Allow cooling completely before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 80g)
- Calories: 215
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg