M.R. This Banana Macadamia Nut Bread is an easy and tasty recipe made with ripe bananas and chopped macadamia nuts. If you’re a fan of banana bread, get ready to elevate your baking game with this Macadamia Bread recipe.
Banana Macadamia Nut Bread Recipe
Macadamia Nut Banana Bread is a moist, sweet bread with a cake-like texture and a tropical twist from ripe bananas and rich, crunchy macadamia nuts. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, it’s sure to become a favorite!
This banana bread is easy to make and perfect for a quick breakfast when you’re in a hurry. It’s also a great way to use up overripe bananas—you’ll need about 3 for a rich, sweet flavor.
To check if the bread is done, use the toothpick test: insert a toothpick into the center, and if it comes out clean, the bread is ready. If it has batter on it, let it bake a bit longer.
This recipe is just like my Banana Bread with Streusel Topping and Caramel Cream Cheese Bread recipe with the addition of Macadamia nuts gives it such a great texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tropical flavors: The buttery crunch of macadamia nuts adds a unique, indulgent twist.
Simple ingredients: This recipe uses pantry staples with a tropical boost from bananas and nuts.
Perfect texture: It’s moist and fluffy with crunchy nutty bites throughout.
Freezer-friendly: Banana Macadamia Nut Bread freezes well, so you can enjoy it anytime!
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar for a tropical feel)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup chopped macadamia nuts
- Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips or shredded coconut for extra flavor
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the mashed bananas, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined—do not overmix.
Add Macadamia Nuts
Gently fold in the chopped macadamia nuts, and if desired, chocolate chips or shredded coconut for an extra layer of indulgence.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Check the bread around the 40-minute mark, and if it’s browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
Cool and Serve
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring the Macadamia nuts banana bread to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy the tropical goodness!
Banana Bread Macadamia Nuts Recipe Tips
- Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the bread will be.
- Macadamia nuts: Toast the nuts for a few minutes before adding them to enhance their flavor.
- Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature to ensure a smooth, even batter.
- Add-ins: Feel free to customize the recipe with extras like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even white chocolate chips for a twist.
Recipe Variations
Here are some delicious variations of Macadamia Nuts Bread banana to suit different tastes. The recipe is simple, and I also have tips to make it even better!
Macadamia Nut Coconut Bread
Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist. The combination of buttery macadamia nuts and sweet coconut creates a rich, exotic flavor.
Lemon Macadamia Nut Bread
Incorporate the zest of one lemon and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice into the batter for a fresh, zesty version. Lemon pairs beautifully with macadamia nuts for a bright, tangy twist.
Chocolate Macadamia Nut Bread
Mix in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips or chunks for a decadent treat. The creamy macadamia nuts combined with the richness of chocolate create a dessert-like bread.
Gluten-Free Macadamia Nut Bread
Replace regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure the batter is mixed well for a gluten-free version. Macadamia nuts add a naturally gluten-free crunch to this bread.
Macadamia Nut Banana Bread
Combine mashed bananas into the batter to create a variation similar to banana bread. Use 2 ripe bananas for added moisture and sweetness, enhancing the flavor of the macadamia nuts.
Spiced Macadamia Nut Bread
Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced version. This variation is perfect for cooler months or holiday baking.
Macadamia Nut Cranberry Bread
Fold in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or fresh cranberries for a sweet-tart balance. The slight tartness of cranberries complements the rich, buttery taste of the macadamia nuts.
Vegan Macadamia Nut Bread
Substitute eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water per egg) and swap out dairy products for plant-based alternatives like almond milk and coconut oil to create a vegan version.
Honey Macadamia Nut Bread
Drizzle honey into the batter or mix it with butter and spread it on top after baking for a subtly sweet, natural flavor that complements the macadamia nuts.
Macadamia Nut Zucchini Bread
Add 1 cup of shredded zucchini to the batter for a moist, veggie-packed variation. The mild flavor of zucchini blends seamlessly with the buttery crunch of macadamia nuts.
Each of these variations brings a unique twist to classic Macadamia Nut Banana Bread, offering flavors from sweet to savory, depending on your preferences.
Conclusion
This Banana Macadamia Nut Bread is a must-try for anyone who loves a tropical twist on classic banana bread. The combination of sweet bananas, rich macadamia nuts, and optional coconut or chocolate add-ins makes it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or a dessert, it’s sure to impress family and friends. Plus, it’s easy to make, and with just a few pantry staples, you’ll have a loaf of deliciousness ready in no time!
Now that you’ve mastered this recipe, why not make it a staple in your baking rotation? Happy baking!
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this Macadamia nut bread gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s meant for baking. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for structure, or add it separately if your blend doesn’t include it.
Can I replace the butter for a healthy banana macadamia nut bread?
Yes, you can replace butter with coconut oil, olive oil, or even applesauce for a healthier version. Keep in mind that these substitutions may slightly alter the texture and flavor.
What’s the best way to store Banana Macadamia Nut Bread?
Store the bread at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
How do I toast macadamia nuts?
To toast macadamia nuts, spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even browning. Keep an eye on them as they can burn quickly!
Can I make banana macadamia nut muffins instead of a loaf?
Yes, you can easily turn this recipe into muffins! Just divide the batter into a muffin tin lined with paper liners and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
What other nuts can I use instead of macadamia?
If you don’t have macadamia nuts, you can substitute them with walnuts, pecans, or even almonds. Each will bring a different flavor and texture to the bread.
Can I add any other flavors to the recipe for Macadamia Nuts banana bread?
Definitely! You can mix in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to give the bread a cozy, warm flavor. Shredded coconut, chocolate chips, or a splash of rum extract are also great additions for a more tropical vibe.
Is this bread suitable for freezing?
Yes, Banana Macadamia Nut Bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To serve, simply let it thaw at room temperature or microwave slices for a quick thaw.
