Island Paradise Banana Bread

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/2 cup (120ml) pineapple juice 1/2 cup (120ml) pineapple juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (50g) shredded coconut flakes 1/2 cup (50g) shredded coconut flakes
• 1/2 cup (60g) chopped macadamia nuts 1/2 cup (60g) chopped macadamia nuts

Nutrition

• Calories: 280 kcal / 1170 KJ
• Fat: 12g (Saturated Fat: 6g)
• Carbohydrates: 40g (Sugars: 21g)
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.4g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
2. 2.
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. 3.
   In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. 4.
   Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until well combined. Stir in the mashed bananas, pineapple juice, and vanilla extract.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. 6.
   Fold in the shredded coconut flakes and chopped macadamia nuts.
7. 7.
   Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
8. 8.
   Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. 9.
   Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Coconut flakes — Toast the coconut flakes in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown for an enhanced nutty flavor.
• Macadamia nuts — For a richer flavor, lightly toast the macadamia nuts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes before chopping and adding them to the batter.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra tropical twist, add a teaspoon of rum extract to the batter.
• If you prefer a sweeter bread, sprinkle some brown sugar on top of the batter before baking.
• To keep the bread moist, store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
• Experiment with different mix-ins such as diced mango or chopped dried pineapple for added tropical flavors.
• Serve the bread warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of coconut ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Serving advice

Slice the Island Paradise Banana Bread into thick slices and serve it as a delicious breakfast treat or a delightful afternoon snack. It pairs perfectly with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a tropical fruit smoothie.

Presentation advice

To enhance the tropical presentation, garnish the sliced bread with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes and a few macadamia nuts. Serve it on a wooden cutting board or a tropical-themed plate for an extra touch of island paradise.