How to Make Hawaiian Banana Bread Recipe – Quick & Simple

If you’ve ever craved a taste of the tropics, making your Hawaiian Banana Bread Recipe is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to do it. This isn’t just a regular banana bread recipe with a fancy name. The Hawaiian banana bread recipe offers a unique twist, blending ripe bananas with tropical ingredients like pineapple and coconut for a moist, sweet, and memorable loaf.
In this article, you’ll learn exactly how to make a Hawaiian Banana Bread Recipe at home, using simple ingredients and easy steps. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. Let’s dive in.
What Makes Hawaiian Banana Bread Special?
Unlike traditional banana bread, the Hawaiian banana bread recipe takes things a step further. It’s infused with island flavors that immediately transport you to paradise.
Key Ingredients That Define the Flavor
- Ripe Bananas – The foundation. Use overripe bananas for a naturally sweet flavor.
- Crushed Pineapple – Adds juiciness and tang.
- Shredded Coconut – Provides texture and tropical taste.
- Macadamia Nuts (optional) – For crunch and buttery richness.
- Vanilla and Cinnamon – Aromatic layers that round out the profile.
These ingredients work together to create a loaf that’s moist, fluffy, and delightfully sweet without being overpowering.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need
Here’s a handy table so you can gather your ingredients quickly:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Ripe bananas (mashed) | 3 medium |
Crushed pineapple | 1/2 cup (drained) |
Shredded coconut | 1/3 cup |
All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
Baking soda | 1 tsp |
Baking powder | 1/2 tsp |
Salt | 1/4 tsp |
Sugar | 3/4 cup |
Eggs | 2 large |
Melted butter or oil | 1/2 cup |
Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
Optional: Macadamia nuts | 1/3 cup (chopped) |


How to Make Hawaiian Banana Bread: Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash your bananas. Add eggs, melted butter or oil, vanilla extract, and drained pineapple. Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined – avoid overmixing.
Step 5: Add Coconut and Nuts
Fold in shredded coconut and chopped macadamia nuts (if using).
Step 6: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into your loaf pan. Smooth the top. Bake for 55–65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Once cooled, slice and enjoy.
Pro Tips for Perfect Hawaiian Banana Bread
To master the Hawaiian banana bread recipe, keep these tips in mind:
- Use very ripe bananas. The blacker the peel, the sweeter the fruit.
- Drain the pineapple. Too much moisture can make the bread soggy.
- Don’t overmix the batter. Overmixing creates dense bread.
- Let it rest. Flavors improve after a few hours or overnight.
- Add-ins matter. Customize with chocolate chips or dried pineapple for variety.
Recipe Variations
Want to make the Hawaiian banana bread recipe your own? Here are some fun variations:
Gluten-Free Version
- Replace flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend.
Vegan Option
- Swap eggs for flax eggs and use coconut oil.
Muffins or Mini Loaves
- Adjust bake time to 20-25 minutes for muffins, 30-40 minutes for mini loaves.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
Believe it or not, Hawaiian banana bread isn’t just delicious – it has some nutritional perks too:
- Bananas: High in potassium and fiber.
- Pineapple: Rich in vitamin C and enzymes like bromelain.
- Coconut: Offers healthy fats and adds fiber.
- Macadamia Nuts: Heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
Enjoy in moderation, and it can be part of a balanced treat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I freeze Hawaiian banana bread?
Yes! Slice it, wrap in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze up to 3 months.
Can I make this recipe without coconut?
Absolutely. Simply leave it out or substitute with nuts or oats.
What if I only have two bananas?
It still works. Add a bit more pineapple or applesauce to balance the moisture.
Is it okay to add chocolate chips?
Definitely. They add a great twist to the traditional Hawaiian banana bread recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Banana Bread Recipe
Once you try it, you’ll see why this recipe stands out. It combines comfort food with tropical adventure. You get the nostalgic coziness of banana bread, enhanced by the exotic flavors of the islands.
- Great for breakfast or dessert
- Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly
- Perfect for sharing or gifting
Whether you’re baking for your family, preparing for a potluck, or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers.
Call to Action: Try It, Share It, Love It
Now that you know how to make Hawaiian banana bread, it’s time to bring a little aloha into your kitchen. Try it today and share your results online. Tag @DoughRecipes or use the hashtag #HawaiianBananaBreadRecipe to be featured.
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yummy