Hawaiian Coconut-Banana Bread Recipe featuring moist banana bread with shredded coconut
Soft, moist banana bread filled with sweet coconut flavor for a delicious tropical treat.

Hawaiian Coconut-Banana Bread is a soft, moist, and flavorful homemade bread made with ripe bananas, shredded coconut, and a hint of vanilla. The sweet banana flavor pairs beautifully with tropical coconut, creating a delicious treat for breakfast, afternoon snacks, or dessert. This easy recipe is perfect for anyone who loves homemade banana bread with a tropical twist.

Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Coconut-Banana Bread Recipe

  • Combines sweet bananas with delicious tropical coconut flavor.
  • Creates a soft, moist texture in every slice.
  • Uses simple ingredients that are easy to find.
  • Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
  • Can be customized with macadamia nuts or chopped pineapple.
  • Delicious served warm with butter, coffee, or tea.

Ingredients for Hawaiian Coconut-Banana Bread Recipe

  • 3 medium ripe bananas, mashed
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar or brown sugar
  • ½ cup shredded coconut
  • ⅓ cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup coconut milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • ½ cup chopped macadamia nuts (optional)

Optional Toppings

  • 2 tablespoons shredded coconut
  • Chopped macadamia nuts
  • Thin banana slices
  • A light dusting of powdered sugar

How to Make Hawaiian Coconut-Banana Bread Recipe

To make Hawaiian Coconut-Banana Bread, mash ripe bananas and combine them with sugar, oil, eggs, vanilla, and coconut milk. Mix the dry ingredients separately, then gently combine them with the wet mixture. Fold in the shredded coconut and optional macadamia nuts, transfer the batter to a loaf pan, and bake until golden and fully cooked.

Instructions to Make Hawaiian Coconut-Banana Bread Recipe

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9 × 5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Peel the ripe bananas and mash them in a large bowl with a fork until mostly smooth.
  3. Add the sugar, vegetable oil or melted coconut oil, eggs, vanilla extract, and coconut milk. Whisk until the mixture is well combined.
  4. In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon if using.
  5. Add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture. Stir gently until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
  6. Fold in the shredded coconut and chopped macadamia nuts if desired. Mix gently so the ingredients are evenly distributed.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
  8. Sprinkle extra shredded coconut or chopped nuts over the top for added flavor and texture.
  9. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  10. If the top browns too quickly, cover the loaf loosely with aluminum foil during the final part of baking.
  11. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes.
  12. Transfer the loaf to a wire rack and allow it to cool before slicing.
  13. Serve plain or with a little butter for a delicious tropical breakfast or snack.

Tips for the Best Hawaiian Coconut-Banana Bread Recipe

  • Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for the best sweetness and flavor.
  • Choose unsweetened shredded coconut if you prefer a less sweet bread.
  • Use coconut oil for a stronger coconut flavor or vegetable oil for a more neutral taste.
  • Measure the flour carefully to prevent dry or dense bread.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the bread soft and tender.
  • Add chopped macadamia nuts for a classic Hawaiian-inspired touch.
  • Let the bread cool completely before slicing to help it hold its shape.
  • Check the center before removing the loaf from the oven, as baking times may vary.

Storage Instructions for Hawaiian Coconut-Banana Bread Recipe

Allow the bread to cool completely before storing it. Place it in an airtight container and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, refrigerate the bread for up to 1 week. To freeze, wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months for the best quality. Thaw at room temperature or warm individual slices before serving.

FAQs About Hawaiian Coconut-Banana Bread Recipe

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, frozen bananas work well. Thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing and adding them to the batter.

Can I use coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Coconut flour absorbs much more liquid than all-purpose flour and cannot be substituted in the same amount. For the best results, use all-purpose flour or follow a recipe specifically designed for coconut flour.

Can I make Hawaiian Coconut-Banana Bread without coconut milk?

Yes, you can replace the coconut milk with regular milk or another unsweetened plant-based milk. However, coconut milk provides a richer tropical flavor.

Why is my coconut-banana bread too dense?

Overmixing the batter, measuring too much flour, or using expired baking soda can make the bread dense. Mix gently and check that your leavening ingredients are fresh.