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Slice of Hawaiian coconut pineapple sweet bread showcasing tropical ingredients

Hawaiian Coconut Pineapple Sweet Bread

A cozy slice of island comfort, this sweet bread combines warm coconut and sweet pineapple with a buttery, moist crumb perfect for brunch or dessert.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 10 slices
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the bread
  • 1.5 cups sweetened shredded coconut Toast for best flavor
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, room temperature Helps control salt
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour Spoon and level for accuracy
  • 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup sour cream Brings moisture and tang
  • 1 20-ounce can pineapple chunks, drained well Pat dry to avoid soggy batter

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spread the shredded coconut evenly on a large rimmed baking sheet. Toast for 6–10 minutes, tossing occasionally, until lightly golden and fragrant. Set aside.
  2. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray, then dust with flour; tap out excess to help the bread release cleanly.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
Mixing
  1. In a stand mixer with the paddle, beat the butter and sugar on high for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
  2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each so the batter emulsifies.
  3. Reduce speed to low. Alternately add the flour mixture in three parts and the sour cream in two parts, beginning and ending with flour. Mix just until combined; do not overmix.
Combining
  1. Gently fold in the drained pineapple chunks and 1 cup of the toasted coconut, using a spatula so the fruit stays intact and the batter stays airy.
  2. Pour batter into the pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup toasted coconut evenly over the loaf.
Baking
  1. Bake for 65–70 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Halfway through, cover loosely with foil to prevent over-browning.
  2. Let cool for 15 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a rack to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

Time-saver: Toast coconut while oven preheats. Common mistake: If batter looks tight, don't add more flour; fold gently and bake. Variation: Stir in ½ teaspoon cinnamon or a handful of macadamia nuts.