Welcome to a delicious twist on classic banana bread: Coconut Banana-Nut Bread. This recipe combines the comforting flavor of ripe bananas with the tropical flair of coconut, making it perfect for any occasion. Ready to bake something truly special?
Flour gives the bread structure, while baking soda helps it rise. A pinch of salt enhances the flavors. Butter brings richness, and sugar sweetens it up. Eggs provide moisture and bind everything together. The star of the show, bananas, infuse the bread with natural sweetness and flavor. A touch of vanilla extract complements the bananas perfectly. The sour cream ensures each bite is tender and moist. Shredded coconut adds texture and a hint of the tropics, while pecans add a lovely crunch. Finally, a little coconut oil helps grease the pan, adding a subtle hint of coconut flavor.
Enjoy a slice of this Coconut Banana-Nut Bread warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. For a tropical twist, serve it alongside a scoop of coconut ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries. It also pairs nicely with a mug of chai tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab your 9x5 inch loaf pan and grease it with coconut oil, ensuring every corner is coated. This prevents sticking and adds a hint of coconut flavor.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the baking soda is evenly distributed and will help your bread rise uniformly.
Now, in a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, helping the bread to rise nicely.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract. The bananas should be mashed well, so they blend seamlessly with the mixture.
Alternately add the dry ingredients and sour cream into the banana mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. This method helps maintain a smooth batter without overmixing.
Gently fold in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans. Be careful not to overwork the batter — just enough to distribute the coconut and pecans evenly.
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. This step ensures an even rise in the oven.
Bake for 60-70 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your bread is ready. Allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.