Paradise Banana Bread

Paradise Banana Bread Recipe with Macadamia and Pineapple

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 55-65 minutes | Servings: 8-16 slices

Introduction

Paradise Banana Bread is a delicious and tropical twist on the classic banana bread recipe. Packed with flavors of bananas, pineapple, and macadamia nuts, this bread is sure to transport you to a paradise island with every bite.

History

Banana bread has been a popular and beloved treat for many years, with variations of the recipe popping up all over the world. The addition of pineapple and macadamia nuts in this recipe gives it a unique and tropical flavor that sets it apart from traditional banana bread recipes.

Ingredients

1 cup + 2 tbsp of reduced fat bisquick baking mix
6 tbsp of graham cracker crumbs (Hint: you can crush graham crackers in a self-sealed bag)
0.5 cup of pourable splenda
0.25 cup of chopped macadamia or walnuts
0.67 cup of mashed bananas (2 ripe medium bananas)
1 cup of crushed pineapple (1 - 8 oz (227 g) can), packed in fruit juice, drained
2 tbsp of no-fat sour cream (Land o' Lakes brand)
1 tsp of rum extract

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Spray a loaf pan measuring 9x5 inches with butter flavored cooking spray.
In a large bowl, combine the baking mix, graham cracker crumbs, and Splenda.
Stir in the nuts.
In a small bowl, combine the mashed bananas, pineapple, sour cream, and rum extract.
Add the banana mixture to the baking mix mixture.
Gently mix just to combine.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan.
Bake for 55 – 65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Place the loaf pan on a wire rack and let it set for 5 minutes.
Remove the bread from the pan and continue cooling it on the rack.
Cut into 8 thick slices or 16 thin slices.

Variations

Add in shredded coconut for an extra tropical twist.
Swap out the macadamia nuts for pecans or almonds.
Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and pineapple juice.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use ripe bananas for the best flavor in this recipe.

- Drain the crushed pineapple well to avoid excess moisture in the bread.

- Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough bread.

- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding in your favorite mix-ins, such as coconut flakes or chocolate chips.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy a slice of Paradise Banana Bread with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or snack.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to preheat the oven to ensure even baking.

- Use a toothpick to test for doneness before removing the bread from the oven.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have graham crackers, you can use crushed vanilla wafers instead.

- Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream.

Make Ahead Tips

Paradise Banana Bread can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve slices of Paradise Banana Bread on a decorative platter with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair a slice of Paradise Banana Bread with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Paradise Banana Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop a slice in the microwave for a few seconds until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Paradise Banana Bread contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Paradise Banana Bread contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Paradise Banana Bread contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Paradise Banana Bread contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Bananas are a good source of potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6, all of which are important for overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts and dairy (sour cream), so be cautious if you have allergies to these ingredients.

Summary

Paradise Banana Bread is a delicious treat that is relatively low in calories and provides a good source of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

Summary

Paradise Banana Bread is a tropical twist on the classic banana bread recipe, packed with flavors of bananas, pineapple, and macadamia nuts. With a moist and tender crumb, this bread is perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert. Enjoy a slice of paradise with every bite!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a moth to a flame. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Agnes, who was known for her delicious baked goods. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, I was greeted by the most amazing aroma of bananas and cinnamon wafting through the air.

Agnes greeted me with a warm smile and a hug, and then she handed me a slice of her Paradise Banana Bread. I took one bite and I was immediately transported to a tropical paradise. The bread was moist and sweet, with the perfect balance of banana and spice. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make it.

Agnes laughed when I begged her for the recipe, telling me that it was a family secret passed down through generations. But she could see the determination in my eyes, and so she agreed to teach me her ways.

We spent the entire afternoon baking together, with Agnes guiding me through each step of the process. She showed me how to mash the ripe bananas until they were smooth and creamy, how to mix the flour and spices just right, and how to bake the bread to perfection.

As the bread baked in the oven, Agnes shared the story behind the recipe. She told me that the recipe had been handed down to her from her own grandmother, who had learned it from a traveling chef many years ago. The chef had visited their small village and had shared his recipe for a special banana bread that he claimed was like a taste of paradise.

Agnes' grandmother had taken the recipe and made it her own, adding her own special touches and passing it on to her daughter. And now, Agnes was passing it on to me.

When the bread finally emerged from the oven, golden brown and fragrant, we couldn't wait to dig in. We sat at Agnes' kitchen table, savoring each bite and reminiscing about old times. The bread was even better than I remembered, and I knew that I had found a new favorite recipe.

From that day on, Paradise Banana Bread became a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for myself on lazy Sunday mornings. Every time I baked it, I thought of Agnes and her warm kitchen, and the special bond that we shared over a love of baking.

As the years passed, I continued to hone my skills and make the recipe my own. I added a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top, or a handful of chopped nuts for extra crunch. I experimented with different spices and extracts, always striving to create the perfect loaf of banana bread.

And now, as I pass the recipe on to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will carry on the tradition. I hope that you will bake this bread with love and care, and share it with those you hold dear. And I hope that one day, you will pass it on to your own children, keeping the spirit of Agnes and her Paradise Banana Bread alive for generations to come.