Tropical Banana Bread is gonna take you straight to a sunny beach! And it’s a fast bread you’ll love too!

 

 

Ripe bananas, coconut, and maraschino cherries. So yummy!

It’s a delicious twist on classic banana bread!

You’re going to love how moist and flavorful this quick bread is!

This tropical banana bread recipe is super easy to make and perfect for using up those ripe bananas.

The combo of coconut and cherries is such a unique and delicious flavor!

It’s a great treat for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert.

And you can customize it with your favorite nuts or additional fruits if you want too.

This tropical coconut banana bread recipe includes a vegan option if you want also!

 

 

What Is Tropical Banana Bread?

Tropical Banana Bread is a delicious variation of the classic banana bread.

Probably because of all those tropical flavors like coconut and maraschino cherries! So good!

The addition of coconut milk and shredded coconut gives it a moist and rich texture.

It’s a perfect way to enjoy the taste of the tropics!

All in a simple, homemade bread!

 

 

What Ingredients Are in Tropical Banana Bread?

This tropical treat makes a moist loaf and uses mostly pantry ingredients!

So grab a large mixing bowl and lets get to it!

• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the bread moist.
• White Granulated Sugar: Extra sweetness!
• Eggs or Applesauce: Provides structure (use applesauce for a vegan option).
• Vanilla Extract and Almond Extract: Love using them both!
• Baking Powder and Baking Soda: Helps the bread rise.
• Salt: Just a bit.
• Ripe Bananas: Adds natural sweetness and moisture.
• All-Purpose Flour: The base of the bread.
• Coconut Milk: Adds moisture and a rich coconut flavor.
• Sweetened Shredded Coconut Flakes: Tropical flavor!
• Diced Maraschino Cherries: Diced and delicious!

Pro Tip: 

• Make sure to let the diced cherries rest on paper towels to absorb excess juice so the bread doesn’t turn pink.
• Toss in some chocolate chips if you love your chocolate with bananas.

 

 

How to Make Tropical Banana Bread?

This Hawaiian banana bread recipe will definitely be one of your new favorite recipes!

The whole recipe card is below, but here’s what you need to know:

1. Mix oil and sugar in a large bowl.
2. Add eggs (or applesauce) and extracts.
3. Combine dry ingredients and mashed bananas in a separate bowl.
4. Add dry ingredients and coconut milk to the batter.
5. Stir in shredded coconut and cherries.
6. Pour batter into bread pan and bake.

Pro Tips:

• Use overripe bananas for the best flavor.
• Don’t overmix the batter so you get a moist and tender loaf.
• Use a prepared loaf pan. A spray with parchment paper usually work well.

 

 

Is Tropical Banana Bread Healthy?

This delicious banana bread can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

It contains fruit and can be made with healthier options like applesauce instead of eggs.

Though honestly, I think eggs are pretty healthy!

What is healthy anyway? It’s so subjective!

You could add nuts for extra nutrition if you want.

But you know? I say just enjoy in moderation as a delicious treat!

 

 

How to Store Tropical Banana Bread?

Store this sweet bread in an airtight container.

You can keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, keep it in the fridge.

It’s pretty moist but should last up to a week in the fridge.

Just be sure you let it cool to room temperature before putting it in your container.

 

 

Can You Freeze Tropical Banana Bread?

Yes, you can freeze Tropical Banana Bread.

Wrap the cooled bread in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and store it in a freezer-safe bag.

It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Don’t forget to label the bag! Put what it is and when you froze it.

That way when you see something in aluminum foil you won’t have to open it up to find out what it is!

 

 

When to Serve Tropical Banana Bread?

Mashed banana bread is perfect for any time of the day!

Seriously any time you want to go on a Maui vacation but can’t? That’s when to serve it!

Breakfast! Yep! Goes great with a smoothie or some tea!

Snack? Yep! That too.

Maybe even dessert. Or a brunch!

If you can think of it, try it! I bet it will be great!

Hawaiian parties, baby showers, bridal showers, a luau, goodness I can think of so many times!

 

 

What to Serve with Tropical Banana Bread?

Looking for a more indulgent treat? Try spreading some butter or cream cheese on a slice. Holy Moly!

If you’re a fan of cherries, then I suggest serving these tasty treats:

• Cherry Rhubarb Crisp
• Banana Cherry Muffins
• Cherry Limeade
• Cherry Cookies
• Chocolate Cherry Cookies
• Cherry Dip
• Chocolate Cherry Whoopie Pies
• Cherry Pie Cookies

If you’re a fan of coconut then how about serving it with one of these recipes:

• Banana Coconut Muffins
• Grandma’s Coconut Cream Pie
• Coconut Butter Cookies
• Coconut Caramel Popcorn 
• Coconut Rice Krispie Cookies
• Coconut Lime Bars
• Simple Frog Eye Salad Recipe

 

 

Can I Add Nuts to Tropical Banana Bread?

Yes, you can add nuts to this easy tropical banana bread for extra texture and flavor.

Chopped macadamia nuts or walnuts work really well. 

Just fold in about 1/2 cup of nuts with the shredded coconut and cherries.

And boom! You’re customizing and loving it!

 

 

Tropical Banana Bread is a delicious and flavorful twist on classic banana bread!

With its moist texture and tropical ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite!

Try making this delicious bread today and enjoy a taste of the tropics anytime!

 

Originally Posted: September 10, 2015

Photos & Text Updated: April 21, 2025