Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this delightful Hawaiian nut banana bread. This exotic twist on a classic comfort food combines the rich flavors of banana, pineapple, walnuts, and coconut, creating a moist and flavorful loaf that's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack.
While many of these ingredients are familiar, you might need to make a special trip for sweetened flaked coconut and maraschino cherries. Ensure you get crushed pineapple, not chunks, to maintain the desired texture. These items are usually found in the baking aisle or the canned fruit section of your supermarket.
Ingredients For Hawaiian Nut Banana Bread
flour: A staple in baking, providing structure to the bread.
salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
baking soda: Acts as a leavening agent to help the bread rise.
cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy flavor.
eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender.
sugar: Sweetens the bread and adds to its texture.
bananas: Provides moisture, sweetness, and flavor.
walnuts: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
pineapple: Adds a tropical sweetness and moisture.
sweetened flaked coconut: Adds a chewy texture and coconut flavor.
maraschino cherries: Adds a pop of color and sweet, fruity flavor.
One reader, Charin Devlin says:
This Hawaiian nut banana bread is a tropical delight! The blend of bananas, pineapple, and maraschino cherries creates a moist, flavorful loaf. The walnuts and coconut add a perfect crunch. A must-try for any banana bread lover!
Techniques Required for Hawaiian Nut Banana Bread Recipe
How to sift dry ingredients: Sifting involves passing the flour, salt, baking soda, and cinnamon through a fine mesh sieve to remove lumps and aerate the mixture, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
How to fold ingredients: Folding is a gentle mixing method used to combine heavier ingredients like walnuts, pineapple, coconut, and cherries into the batter without deflating it. Use a spatula to lift and turn the mixture until just combined.
How to drain crushed pineapple: Draining involves placing the crushed pineapple in a sieve or colander to remove excess liquid, preventing the batter from becoming too wet.
How to test for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the bread is done. If it comes out with wet batter, continue baking and test again after a few minutes.
How To Make Hawaiian Nut Banana Bread
Delight in this luscious banana bread that’s packed with tropical flavors! It’s baked with sweet coconut, crushed pineapples, and tart maraschino cherries.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 3cupsflour
- ¾tspsalt
- 1tspbaking soda
- 1tspcinnamon
- 3large eggs
- 1cupvegetable oil
- 2cupssugar
- 4large bananas,very ripe, mashed
- 1cupwalnuts,chopped
- 8ozpineapple,crushed, drained
- 2cupssweetened flaked coconut
- 1½cupsmaraschino cherries,chopped
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and spray two 9×5-inch loaf pans with baking spray or butter and flour them.
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Sift together the flour, salt, baking soda, and cinnamon into a large bowl. Whisk in the eggs, oil, sugar, and bananas until combined.
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Fold in the walnuts, drained crushed pineapple, sweetened flaked coconut, and maraschino cherries, then pour the batter evenly into two pans.
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Bake them for 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
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Cool in the pan for 15 minutes before removing from loaf pans.
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Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 296.13kcal
- Fat: 12.29g
- Saturated Fat: 2.74g
- Trans Fat: 0.07g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.09g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.90g
- Carbohydrates: 45.13g
- Fiber: 2.39g
- Sugar: 28.83g
- Protein: 2.98g
- Cholesterol: 23.25mg
- Sodium: 155.59mg
- Calcium: 18.55mg
- Potassium: 147.06mg
- Iron: 0.57mg
- Vitamin A: 11.28µg
- Vitamin C: 6.50mg
Technique Tip for Perfect Hawaiian Nut Banana Bread
To enhance the flavor and texture of your Hawaiian Nut Banana Bread, make sure to toast the walnuts lightly before folding them into the batter. This will bring out their natural oils and add a delightful crunch to each bite.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Hawaiian Nut Banana Bread
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients like flour, sugar, and cinnamon before starting to streamline the process.
Use a food processor: Quickly chop walnuts and mash bananas using a food processor to save time.
One-bowl method: Mix dry and wet ingredients in one bowl to reduce cleanup time.
Preheat oven early: Start preheating the oven before you begin mixing to ensure it’s ready when you are.
Line pans with parchment: Use parchment paper in the loaf pans for easy removal and less cleanup.
Substitute Ingredients For Hawaiian Nut Banana Bread Recipe
flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the bread denser.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a slightly different flavor profile and contains trace minerals.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use three times the amount of baking powder as baking soda, but it may slightly alter the texture.
cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg offers a warm, spicy flavor similar to cinnamon but with a unique twist.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This is a good vegan alternative.
vegetable oil - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can reduce the fat content and add natural sweetness.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey is a natural sweetener that can add a different flavor and moisture to the bread.
bananas - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can mimic the moisture and sweetness of bananas, though it will alter the flavor.
walnuts - Substitute with pecans: Pecans offer a similar texture and nutty flavor, making them a good alternative.
pineapple - Substitute with mango: Mango provides a tropical sweetness similar to pineapple but with a different flavor profile.
sweetened flaked coconut - Substitute with unsweetened flaked coconut: Unsweetened coconut can reduce the overall sugar content while still providing texture and flavor.
maraschino cherries - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries offer a tart and sweet flavor, adding a different but complementary taste.
Presenting Hawaiian Nut Banana Bread
Serve smaller portion sizes: Slice the banana bread into elegant, bite-sized pieces to create a refined presentation. This allows the intricate flavors of banana, pineapple, and maraschino cherries to be savored in each bite.
Use decoration: Garnish each slice with a delicate sprinkle of sweetened flaked coconut and a few finely chopped walnuts. Add a small dollop of whipped cream on the side for an extra touch of elegance.
Plate with contrast: Use a dark-colored plate to make the vibrant colors of the banana bread and maraschino cherries pop. This visual contrast enhances the overall appeal of the dish.
Add a tropical touch: Place a thin slice of fresh pineapple and a couple of banana chips next to the bread. This not only adds to the tropical theme but also provides additional textures and flavors.
Drizzle with sauce: Lightly drizzle a coconut caramel sauce over the banana bread slices. The sauce should be thin enough to not overpower the bread but thick enough to add a touch of sweetness and moisture.
Incorporate edible flowers: Add a few edible flowers, such as orchids or hibiscus, to the plate. These flowers not only enhance the visual appeal but also tie in with the Hawaiian theme of the dish.
Serve with a side beverage: Pair the banana bread with a small glass of tropical fruit punch or coconut water. This complementary beverage enhances the overall dining experience and ties in with the tropical flavors of the bread.
Essential Tools for Making Nut Banana Bread
Oven: Used to bake the banana bread at the specified temperature of 350 degrees F.
Loaf pans: Two 9x5-inch pans to hold the batter and shape the banana bread.
Baking spray: To coat the loaf pans and prevent the bread from sticking.
Sifter: Used to sift together the flour, salt, baking soda, and cinnamon.
Large bowl: For mixing the dry ingredients and wet ingredients together.
Whisk: To combine the eggs, oil, sugar, and bananas with the dry ingredients.
Spatula: For folding in the walnuts, pineapple, coconut, and cherries into the batter.
Toothpick: To check if the banana bread is fully baked by inserting it into the center and seeing if it comes out clean.
Cooling rack: To cool the banana bread after it has been removed from the loaf pans.
Storing and Freezing Hawaiian Nut Banana Bread
Allow the hawaiian nut banana bread to cool completely before storing. This will prevent moisture from building up and making the bread soggy.
Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help keep the bread fresh and prevent it from drying out.
Place the wrapped bread in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. This will provide an extra layer of protection against moisture and air.
Store the container or bag in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The bread will keep fresh at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to keep the bread fresh for longer, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent it from absorbing any odors from other foods.
To freeze the bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
When ready to eat, thaw the frozen bread at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to restore its freshness and texture.
If you plan to freeze the bread for longer than a month, consider slicing it before freezing. This way, you can easily remove and thaw individual slices as needed without having to thaw the entire loaf.
How To Reheat Leftover Hawaiian Nut Banana Bread
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the leftover hawaiian nut banana bread in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Heat the bread in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until it's heated through and the exterior is slightly crispy. This method will help restore the bread's texture and bring out its delightful aroma.
If you prefer a softer texture, you can also reheat the banana bread in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 15-20 seconds. If the bread is still cold, heat it in 10-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the bread, as it may become rubbery.
For a crispy exterior and a soft interior, you can reheat the hawaiian nut banana bread in a toaster oven. Cut the bread into slices and place them on the toaster oven rack. Heat the slices for 3-4 minutes, or until they're warmed through and slightly toasted on the outside. This method works well for individual servings and allows you to customize the level of crispiness.
If you have a bit more time, you can also reheat the banana bread in a skillet. Melt a small amount of butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a slice of the bread and cook it for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until it's golden brown and heated through. This method will give the bread a delightful buttery flavor and a slightly crispy exterior.
For a tropical twist, you can also grill the leftover hawaiian nut banana bread. Preheat your grill to medium heat and lightly brush each slice with melted butter or coconut oil. Grill the slices for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they have nice grill marks and are heated through. The grilling process will add a subtle smoky flavor to the bread and enhance its tropical notes.
Interesting Fact About Hawaiian Nut Banana Bread
A random fact about this Hawaiian nut banana bread recipe is that it combines tropical flavors like pineapple, coconut, and maraschino cherries with the classic taste of banana bread. This fusion creates a unique and flavorful twist on traditional banana bread, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.
Is Making Hawaiian Nut Banana Bread at Home Cost-Effective?
This Hawaiian nut banana bread recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of bananas, pineapple, and maraschino cherries adds a tropical twist, but the inclusion of sweetened flaked coconut and walnuts can increase the cost. Overall, the ingredients are accessible and can be found in most grocery stores. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD. Overall verdict: 7/10.
Is Hawaiian Nut Banana Bread Healthy or Unhealthy?
This Hawaiian nut banana bread recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The high amounts of sugar, oil, and refined flour contribute to its indulgent nature. The recipe calls for 2 cups of sugar and 1 cup of vegetable oil, which are significant sources of empty calories and unhealthy fats. Additionally, the use of 3 cups of all-purpose flour provides little in terms of fiber and nutrients.
However, the recipe does include some redeeming ingredients:
- Bananas offer a good source of potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber
- Walnuts provide heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and protein
- Pineapple contains enzymes that aid digestion and vitamin C
- Cherries offer antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the sugar content by half and replace it with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup
- Swap out half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients
- Replace the vegetable oil with healthier alternatives like coconut oil or Greek yogurt
- Decrease the amount of sweetened flaked coconut and replace it with unsweetened coconut flakes
- Use fresh or frozen cherries instead of maraschino cherries to reduce the sugar content
- Add in additional nutritious ingredients like chia seeds, flaxseeds, or grated zucchini for a nutrient boost
Editor's Opinion on This Hawaiian Nut Banana Bread Recipe
This Hawaiian nut banana bread recipe is a delightful fusion of tropical flavors and classic comfort. The combination of bananas, pineapple, and maraschino cherries adds a refreshing sweetness, while the walnuts and coconut provide a satisfying texture. The use of vegetable oil ensures a moist crumb, and the cinnamon adds a warm, aromatic touch. Baking at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 60 minutes achieves a perfect balance of a golden crust and tender interior. Overall, it's a vibrant twist on traditional banana bread, ideal for both casual gatherings and special occasions.
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Why trust this Hawaiian Nut Banana Bread Recipe:
This Hawaiian nut banana bread recipe is a delightful fusion of tropical flavors and classic comfort. The combination of bananas, pineapple, and maraschino cherries creates a moist and flavorful loaf, while the walnuts and sweetened flaked coconut add a satisfying crunch. Perfectly balanced with a hint of cinnamon, this bread is easy to make and sure to impress. Trust in the simplicity of the ingredients and the straightforward instructions for a delicious homemade treat.
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