hawaiian banana bread recipe

hawaiian banana bread recipe

As I stood in my kitchen, the smell of ripe bananas and warm spices filled the air. It reminded me of Hawaii’s shores. I had been dreaming of baking Hawaiian Banana Bread for weeks. Now, with all the ingredients ready, I was excited to start.

This recipe is a beloved island classic. It promises to bring tropical paradise into your home, one slice at a time.

The Story Behind Hawaiian Banana Bread

Hawaii’s famous Hawaiian sweet bread comes from the historic Halekulani Hotel on Waikiki beach. It has grown from a simple loaf into many tasty variations, like muffin tops.

The Halekulani Hotel, built before the Royal Hawaiian Hotel, shows old Hawaii’s elegance. The bread’s recipe has changed over time, from paper to digital, showing how cooking traditions evolve.

Origins at the Halekulani Hotel

The story of Hawaiian banana bread starts in the Halekulani Hotel’s kitchens. Apple bananas, or Manzano bananas, are the best for bread because they’re small, sweet, and dense.

Evolution of a Classic Recipe

Banana bread recipes in Hawaii are treasured family secrets, passed down through generations. They show a rich culinary tradition. Over time, bakers and home cooks have added new ingredients and techniques to the classic recipe.

Traditional Island Influences

Hawaiian banana bread is more than a snack; it’s a big part of local culture. You can find it in bakeries and roadside stands across the islands. The recipe often includes macadamia nuts, shredded coconut, and vanilla extract.

Hawaiian banana bread

“Aunt Sandy’s pre-packaged Hawaiian banana bread mix lets fans enjoy a taste of Hawaii at home. It brings a sense of culinary connection to the islands.”

Essential Ingredients for Hawaiian Banana Bread

To make the perfect Hawaiian banana bread, you need ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and butter. You also need sugar, eggs, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Shredded coconut adds a special touch. Some recipes might include chopped nuts, vanilla extract, and maraschino cherries. This mix of tropical flavors and classic baking ingredients makes Hawaiian banana bread ingredients stand out.

The mashed bananas add sweetness and moisture. Crushed pineapple brings a tropical flavor. Butter and eggs make the bread tender. Flour, baking powder, and baking soda help it rise light and fluffy. Salt balances the sweetness, and shredded coconut adds chewiness and a nutty smell.

Adding chopped nuts, vanilla extract, and maraschino cherries can make the pineapple banana bread even better. These ingredients create a unique Hawaiian twist on a classic quick bread. It truly captures the essence of the islands.

IngredientAmount
All-purpose flour2 cups (240 g)
Baking soda1 teaspoon
Salt1/2 teaspoon
Unsalted butter, melted1/2 cup (113 g)
Light brown sugar1/2 cup (100 g)
Granulated sugar1/4 cup (50 g)
Eggs, at room temperature2 large
Sour cream1/3 cup (80 g)
Vanilla extract1 teaspoon
Ripe bananas, mashed2 (about 1 cup)
Crushed pineapple, undrained1/2 cup (112 g)
Shredded coconut1/2 cup (35 g)

This list shows the key ingredients for authentic Hawaiian banana bread ingredients. By mixing these ingredients carefully, you can bake a loaf that truly captures the essence of the islands.

What Makes This Bread Uniquely Hawaiian

Hawaiian banana bread is special because of its tropical fruits and island flavors. It has crushed pineapple and coconut for sweetness and moisture. Macadamia nuts or walnuts add a nutty crunch.

Tropical Fruit Components

Ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and coconut make Hawaiian banana bread unique. These tropical ingredients make the bread sweet and moist, like the islands. The pineapple’s tartness and the coconut’s nutty flavor are key.

Island-Style Additions

Hawaiian banana bread also has island-inspired touches like macadamia nuts or walnuts. These nuts add a crunchy texture that contrasts with the bread’s softness. Macadamia nuts are especially popular, capturing Hawaii’s essence.

Traditional Flavor Profile

The traditional taste of Hawaiian banana bread is a mix of sweet bananas, tangy pineapple, and coconut’s nuttiness. This blend of flavors is distinctly Hawaiian, evoking the islands. The result is a moist, flavorful bread that honors Hawaii’s culinary traditions.

macadamia nut banana bread

IngredientQuantity
Ripe Bananas3 medium
All-Purpose Flour1 1/2 cups
Granulated Sugar3/4 cup
Unsalted Butter, Melted1/2 cup
Eggs2 large
Baking Soda1 teaspoon
Salt1/4 teaspoon

Step-by-Step Hawaiian Banana Bread Recipe

Try the hawaiian banana bread recipe for a taste of the tropics. It mixes classic banana bread with island touches like crushed pineapple and shredded coconut. This island-inspired baking will make you feel like you’re in Hawaii.

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated.
  5. Mash 3 very ripe bananas (about 1 cup mashed) and fold them into the butter-sugar mixture.
  6. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
  7. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  8. Fold in 1/2 cup of crushed pineapple and 1/2 cup of shredded coconut.
  9. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 65 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  10. Allow the hawaiian banana bread recipe to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy this moist and flavorful island-inspired baking creation, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Nutrition FactsValue per Serving
Calories305 kcal
Carbohydrates47 g
Protein5 g
Fat12 g
Saturated Fat4 g
Cholesterol27 mg
Sodium220 mg
Potassium204 mg
Fiber3 g
Sugar26 g

Key Tips for Perfect Texture and Moisture

To make the perfect Hawaiian banana bread, it’s not just about the recipe. You need to know a few secrets to get it right. Your bread should be moist, tender, and full of flavor. Here are some tips to help you achieve that.

Banana Ripeness Guide

For a moist and tasty banana bread, use very ripe bananas. Look for bananas with brown spots or even black peels. These bananas are sweet and moist, adding the best flavor to your bread. Don’t use green bananas as they won’t taste as good.

Moisture Control Techniques

  • Add crushed pineapple to the batter for extra moisture and a tropical twist.
  • Use coconut oil instead of butter or vegetable oil for a soft, tender crumb and a hint of island flavor.
  • Line your loaf pan with parchment paper and spray it lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make it easy to remove.

Texture Enhancement Methods

  1. Toast macadamia nuts or pecans before adding them to the batter for a nutty flavor and crunch.
  2. Cream the butter and sugar well to add air and make the bread light and fluffy.
  3. Mix the wet and dry ingredients gently to keep the bread soft and tender.
  4. Freeze the bread until it’s firm before slicing for clean, professional-looking cuts.

By using these tips, you’ll make a banana bread that’s truly a taste of baked goods hawaii. It will be moist, flavorful, and full of island flair.

Customization Options and Variations

The classic Hawaiian banana bread recipe is very versatile. You can make it gluten-free, vegan, or try new flavors. There are many options to explore.

To make it gluten-free, use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. This keeps the bread moist and tender. For a less refined sweetener, try coconut sugar or other natural alternatives instead of white sugar.

  • Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version
  • Substitute coconut sugar or other alternatives for white sugar
  • Add chopped macadamia nuts for extra crunch and a tropical twist
  • Adapt the recipe for vegan diets by using coconut oil instead of butter and flax eggs instead of regular eggs

Adding chopped macadamia nuts gives the bread a unique flavor. The nuts’ buttery crunch complements the banana bread’s tropical taste. You can also add pineapple to make a pineapple banana bread that tastes like the Hawaiian islands.

For a vegan version, replace butter with coconut oil and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs. This keeps the bread moist and delicious, making it suitable for plant-based diets.

Choosing any variation, keep the tropical essence of Hawaiian banana bread. With a bit of creativity, you can make this beloved island classic your own.

Storage and Freshness Guidelines

Keeping your Hawaiian banana bread fresh is easy with the right storage tips. Enjoy it over a few days or for weeks with these guidelines. Your tropical treat will stay moist and full of flavor.

Short-term Storage Methods

For up to three days, store your Hawaiian banana bread at room temperature in an airtight container. This keeps it soft and moist. To keep it fresh for a week, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze your Hawaiian banana bread, wrap it in plastic wrap first. Then, cover it in aluminum foil or a freezer-safe bag. This keeps it fresh for months. Your bread will stay delicious for up to three months in the freezer.

To thaw your frozen Hawaiian banana bread, let it sit at room temperature. Or, warm individual slices in the microwave for a fresh taste.

Storage MethodShelf Life
Room Temperature (Airtight Container)Up to 3 days
Refrigerated (Wrapped in Plastic)Up to 1 week
Frozen (Wrapped in Plastic and Foil)Up to 3 months

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Homemade island-inspired baked goods like Hawaiian Banana Bread offer endless serving options. This moist bread is perfect for any baked goods hawaii collection.

Enjoy it as a breakfast treat with coffee or tropical fruit juice. The bread’s sweetness matches well with morning drinks.

For a midday boost, toast banana bread slices. Top them with macadamia nut butter or local honey. This combo is a rich, satisfying snack.

As a dessert, pair the bread with coconut ice cream or whipped cream. The tropical flavors and creamy textures make for a great finish to any meal.

For a fancy touch, toast the bread and dust it with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate. This fancy version will wow your guests and satisfy any sweet craving.

Hawaiian Banana Bread is a versatile treat that adds island flavor to your day. Try different pairings to enjoy its many delicious aspects.

Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations

A slice of Hawaiian Banana Bread is full of taste and nutrients. It has about 234 calories, 11g of fat, 32g of carbs, and 3g of protein. It’s rich in potassium from bananas and has some fiber for health.

This recipe can fit many diets. For gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour mix. For vegan, swap eggs and butter with flax eggs and coconut oil or applesauce. This way, everyone can enjoy it as part of a healthy diet.

Enjoying a slice of this tropical banana bread or trying other hawaiian banana bread recipe and tropical bread recipes is great. Just remember to keep an eye on portion sizes. This way, you can enjoy the flavors of the islands while staying healthy.

FAQ

What are the key ingredients in Hawaiian Banana Bread?

Hawaiian Banana Bread needs ripe bananas, crushed pineapple, and butter. It also needs sugar, eggs, flour, and baking powder. Baking soda, salt, and shredded coconut are key too. Some recipes add chopped walnuts or macadamia nuts, vanilla extract, and maraschino cherries.

Where did Hawaiian Banana Bread originate?

Hawaiian Banana Bread started at the historic Halekulani Hotel on Waikiki beach. It has changed from a simple loaf to muffin tops over time.

What makes Hawaiian Banana Bread unique?

It’s unique because of tropical fruits like pineapple and coconut. Island-style, it might have macadamia nuts or walnuts. The mix of sweet bananas, tangy pineapple, and coconut gives it a Hawaiian taste.

How do you make the perfect Hawaiian Banana Bread?

Use very ripe bananas and add crushed pineapple for moisture. Cream butter and sugar well for a light texture. Don’t overmix dry ingredients for a soft crumb. Coconut and nuts add texture.

Can I customize Hawaiian Banana Bread?

Yes, you can try different versions. Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Try coconut sugar or other sugars instead of white sugar. Add chopped macadamia nuts for crunch. For vegan diets, use coconut oil and flax eggs.

How long does Hawaiian Banana Bread last, and how should it be stored?

Store it at room temperature for up to three days in an airtight container. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for a week. Freeze it in plastic and foil for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a fresh taste.

How can I serve Hawaiian Banana Bread?

Serve it as a breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or dessert. It goes well with tropical fruits, coconut ice cream, or macadamia nut butter. Toasted slices with honey or powdered sugar are indulgent.

What is the nutritional information for Hawaiian Banana Bread?

A slice has about 234 calories, 11g of fat, 32g of carbs, and 3g of protein. It’s a good source of potassium and has some fiber. You can make it gluten-free or vegan by substituting ingredients.
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