Coconut Banana Bread

Coconut Banana Bread is a moist, flavorful, and aromatic twist on the classic banana bread. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas blends beautifully with the tropical flavor of shredded coconut, creating a loaf that is both comforting and indulgent. This bread has a soft, tender crumb with a slightly crisp top, making it perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.

I love this recipe because it combines the warmth of bananas with the exotic taste of coconut, offering a unique yet familiar flavor. It is a must-try dish because it elevates simple ingredients into a loaf that is irresistibly delicious and aromatic, pleasing both kids and adults alike.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this Coconut Banana Bread recipe because it’s the perfect twist on a classic favorite. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas blends beautifully with the subtle tropical flavor of coconut, creating a loaf that’s moist, tender, and irresistibly fragrant. Every bite feels like a comforting hug with a hint of sunny, island-inspired flavor.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

This Coconut Banana Bread is a must-try because it takes a beloved classic and elevates it with a tropical twist. The combination of ripe bananas and shredded coconut gives the bread a naturally sweet, moist, and fragrant texture that’s unlike ordinary banana bread. Every slice is soft, tender, and packed with flavor, making it impossible to resist.

Preparation Time and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Servings and Calories

Servings: 8
Calories: Approximately 280 kcal per serving

Course and Cuisine

Course: Breakfast / Snack / Dessert
Cuisine: American / Tropical-inspired

Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut, plus extra for topping
• 1/4 cup milk (optional, for extra moisture)

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
3. Stir in melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture.
6. Stir in shredded coconut and milk if using, until just combined.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle additional shredded coconut on top.
8. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a loaf pan with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mash Bananas – In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients – Add melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas and mix until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.

Step 5: Fold Dry Ingredients – Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet banana mixture.

Step 6: Add Coconut – Stir in shredded coconut and milk, if using, until just combined.

Step 7: Bake – Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan, sprinkle extra coconut on top, and bake for 55-60 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve – Let bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve Coconut Banana Bread sliced, as a breakfast treat, snack, or dessert. It pairs well with butter, cream cheese, or a drizzle of honey. It also goes perfectly with coffee or tea for a comforting combination.

Recipe Tips

• Use very ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and moist texture.
• Do not overmix the batter to keep the bread tender.
• Toast the shredded coconut before adding for extra flavor and aroma.
• Check the bread 5-10 minutes before the baking time ends to avoid overbaking.

Variations

• Chocolate Coconut Banana Bread – Add 1/2 cup chocolate chips to the batter.
• Nutty Coconut Banana Bread – Stir in 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Vegan Version – Replace eggs with flax eggs and butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
• Tropical Twist – Add 1/4 cup crushed pineapple or mango for extra tropical flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Store Coconut Banana Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for up to 1 week.
• Freeze wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• 9x5 inch loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Fork or potato masher for bananas
• Whisk or spatula
• Wire rack for cooling

Conclusion

Coconut Banana Bread is a moist, flavorful, and aromatic loaf that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the tropical flavor of coconut. Easy to make, versatile, and perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert, it is a must-have recipe for banana bread lovers. With simple ingredients, minimal effort, and endless variations, this bread is both comforting and indulgent, making it an irresistible addition to your baking repertoire.