Hawaiian Banana Nut Bread is a tropical twist on the classic banana bread, incorporating sweet crushed pineapple, shredded coconut, and maraschino cherries. This moist and flavorful loaf is packed with texture and rich flavors, making it an excellent choice for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. The combination of ripe bananas, crunchy nuts, and tropical ingredients brings a delightful balance of sweetness and nuttiness, making this recipe a favorite among banana bread lovers.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 cups white sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• 3 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 2 cups mashed very ripe bananas
• 1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup flaked coconut
• 1 cup maraschino cherries, diced

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9×5-inch loaf pans.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, baking soda, sugar, and cinnamon.
3. Add chopped walnuts, beaten eggs, vegetable oil, mashed bananas, drained crushed pineapple, vanilla extract, flaked coconut, and diced maraschino cherries to the dry ingredients. Stir just until blended.
4. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pans.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a loaf comes out clean.
6. Cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 234
• Total Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 19mg
• Sodium: 115mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 32g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 17g
• Protein: 3g

The Origins of Hawaiian Banana Nut Bread

Banana bread has long been a staple in American households, with its origins tracing back to the early 20th century when home bakers began incorporating overripe bananas into their baked goods. Over time, various regional adaptations emerged, and in Hawaii, local ingredients like pineapple and coconut were introduced to create a tropical version of the beloved classic.

Hawaiian Banana Nut Bread is particularly popular on the islands, where bananas and pineapples are abundant. These fruits grow in the rich volcanic soil of Hawaii, contributing to their intense sweetness and unique flavor. Many Hawaiian bakeries and home cooks have perfected this recipe, making it a common treat served at family gatherings, luaus, and breakfast tables across the islands.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

One of the main reasons Hawaiian Banana Nut Bread is so loved is its incredible combination of flavors and textures. Here are a few key reasons why this recipe stands out:

• Tropical Flavor Infusion: The addition of crushed pineapple and shredded coconut gives this bread a rich and unique taste, elevating it beyond traditional banana bread.
• Extra Moisture: Pineapple adds natural moisture, ensuring that the bread stays soft and tender for days. Unlike some banana breads that can dry out quickly, this version remains moist and delicious.
• Nutty Crunch: Chopped walnuts or pecans not only provide a pleasant crunch but also add depth to the flavor profile. The contrast between the soft bananas and crunchy nuts enhances the eating experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: This bread can be enjoyed as-is, toasted with butter, or even turned into French toast for a decadent breakfast option.

Best Occasions to Serve Hawaiian Banana Nut Bread

Hawaiian Banana Nut Bread is a versatile dish that can be served on many occasions. Here are a few ideal times to enjoy this delightful treat:

• Breakfast or Brunch: A slice of this bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it an excellent morning treat.
• Afternoon Snack: Enjoying a piece in the afternoon with a cold glass of milk or juice is a great way to curb hunger between meals.
• Holiday Gatherings: This bread makes a fantastic addition to holiday feasts, whether for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter.
• Gifts and Potlucks: Wrapped in decorative packaging, this bread makes a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family. It’s also a great contribution to potlucks and office parties.

Tips for Making the Best Hawaiian Banana Nut Bread

To ensure that your Hawaiian Banana Nut Bread turns out perfect every time, consider these expert baking tips:

• Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots on the peel, as they provide the best natural sweetness.
• Drain Pineapple Well: While pineapple adds moisture, too much liquid can make the batter too wet. Make sure to drain the crushed pineapple properly before adding it to the mixture.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can result in dense bread. Mix the ingredients until just combined to maintain a light and tender texture.
• Use Fresh Nuts: If adding nuts, use fresh walnuts or pecans to avoid any bitter or rancid taste. Toasting the nuts slightly before adding them can also enhance their flavor.
• Swirl in Extra Caramel or Honey: For an added layer of sweetness, drizzle caramel or honey over the batter before baking. This creates a slightly caramelized top that adds to the bread’s appeal.

How to Store and Preserve Hawaiian Banana Nut Bread

Proper storage is key to keeping your bread fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Here’s how you can store it:

• Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the bread within two days, store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to a week.
• Freezing: This bread freezes well. Slice it into individual portions, wrap them in plastic wrap, and store them in a freezer-safe bag. To thaw, simply leave it at room temperature for a few hours or microwave for 15-20 seconds.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. Here are a few ways to customize it:

• Chocolate Lovers’ Version: Add chocolate chips to the batter for a rich and indulgent twist.
• Healthier Alternative: Substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and use honey instead of sugar for a healthier option.
• Citrus Zest Addition: Adding orange or lemon zest can give the bread a refreshing and zesty flavor.
• Spiced Version: Enhance the warm flavors by adding nutmeg, cloves, or allspice to the batter.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Banana Nut Bread is a tropical and flavorful variation of the classic banana bread, making it a must-try recipe for anyone who enjoys a sweet and nutty loaf. The combination of ripe bananas, pineapple, coconut, and nuts creates an irresistible taste and texture that appeals to all ages.