Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple & Macadamia Nuts

Category: Desserts & Baking

This Hawaiian Banana Bread is a tasty treat! It blends sweet bananas, juicy pineapple, and crunchy macadamia nuts for a tropical delight.

Every bite feels like a mini vacation. I secretly eat it for breakfast, and no one can blame me—it’s too good to resist! 🌴

Baking this banana bread is so easy! Just mix the ingredients, pour it in a pan, and let the oven work its magic. You’ll be enjoying a slice in no time!

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ripe Bananas: The sweeter, the better! Overripe, brown bananas add the best flavor. If you don’t have ripe ones, you can pop them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes until soft.

Pineapple: Use crushed pineapple for natural sweetness. If fresh pineapple is in season, feel free to chop it up instead! You can also substitute with other tropical fruits, like mango or papaya, for a twist.

Macadamia Nuts: These provide a delightful crunch. If allergies are a concern, chop pecans or walnuts instead. They won’t replicate the same flavor, but they keep the texture nice!

Butter: Unsalted butter is best, but you can swap it with coconut oil for a hint of coconut flavor. Vegan butter works too if you need a dairy-free option.

How Do I Ensure My Banana Bread is Moist and Flavorful?

Moisture is key to great banana bread. Here are a few tips:

  • Use overripe bananas; they break down easy and add natural sweetness.
  • Don’t overmix the batter. Fold the dry ingredients just until combined to keep it tender.
  • Let the crushed pineapple drain well to avoid extra liquid, but keep some juice for flavor.
  • Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean but not dry.
  • Let the bread cool slightly in the pan. This helps it set and be easier to slice.

These steps will help you whip up a delicious, moist Hawaiian banana bread every time!

Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple & Macadamia Nuts

How to Make Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple & Macadamia Nuts

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Bread:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1 cup crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts, toasted
  • Optional: 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for extra flavor)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This Hawaiian banana bread takes about 15 minutes for prep and 60-70 minutes for baking. Plus, you’ll want to cool it for about 15 minutes before slicing. In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is important so that your banana bread bakes evenly. Grease your 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon (if you’re using it). This helps to evenly distribute the baking soda and salt throughout the flour.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar:

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. You can use a hand mixer or just a whisk. This process adds air into your mixture, helping the bread rise nicely.

4. Add the Eggs and Bananas:

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until everything is well blended.

5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:

Now, fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture. Do this gently and only until everything is just combined. We don’t want to overmix, or the bread might turn out dense.

6. Add Pineapple and Nuts:

Carefully fold in the drained crushed pineapple and toasted macadamia nuts. These will add a delicious tropical flavor and a nice crunch!

7. Pour and Bake:

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 60 to 70 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.

8. Cool and Serve:

Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, gently transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice your delicious Hawaiian banana bread and enjoy a piece of tropical paradise!

Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple & Macadamia Nuts

FAQ for Hawaiian Banana Bread with Pineapple & Macadamia Nuts

Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Crushed?

Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh pineapple, just chop it into small pieces. Be sure to drain any excess juice to avoid making the batter too wet.

How Do I Store Leftover Banana Bread?

Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for longer freshness, up to a week. Just be sure to slice as needed to keep it from drying out!

Can I Freeze This Banana Bread?

Yes! This banana bread freezes wonderfully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it!

What Variations Can I Try?

You can get creative with this recipe by adding chocolate chips, dried fruit like coconut or cranberries, or even substituting walnuts for macadamia nuts if you prefer. Enjoy experimenting!

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