Banana Pineapple Loaf

This delectable recipe is one I found while browsing the Mediterranean Diet Recipes Facebook page, I was looking for a new loaf recipe and this one caught my eye, it has now become one of my favourite recipes. I can’t wait for you to give it a try!

The Mediterranean diet is a heart-healthy eating pattern inspired by the traditional dietary habits of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, such as Greece, Italy, and Spain. It emphasises whole, minimally processed foods, healthy fats, and balanced nutrition, offering both delicious meals and significant health benefits.

Banana Pineapple Loaf

Wet Ingredients:

2 large ripe bananas, mashed

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (heart-healthy fat)

1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (replaces some oil for moisture)

1/4 cup honey or pure maple syrup (natural sweetener)

2 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan option)

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups almond flour (or spelt flour for Mediterranean-friendly fiber)

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Pinch of sea salt

Add-Ins:

3/4 cup fresh pineapple, diced (or canned in its juice, drained)

1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut

1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional for added crunch)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 175°C. Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with olive oil or line it with parchment paper.

Mix the Wet Ingredients:

In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, olive oil, applesauce, honey/maple syrup, eggs/egg replacer, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients:

In another bowl, whisk together the almound flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of sea salt.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Add the Pineapple and Coconut:

Gently fold in the diced pineapple, shredded coconut, and chopped nuts (if using).

Bake the Bread:

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Slice, serve and Enjoy 🙂

For another delicious loaf recipe, try this Eggless Banana and Chocolate Chip Loaf