Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a fork or potato masher until they are smooth and free of large chunks. The ripeness of the bananas is key to making the bread naturally sweet and moist.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

To the mashed bananas, add the melted unsalted butter, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir everything together until well combined. The butter adds richness while the egg helps to bind everything together.

Step 4: Mix in Sugar and Pineapple

Next, stir in 1 cup of granulated sugar and 1/2 cup of crushed pineapple (be sure to drain the pineapple to prevent extra moisture from making the bread too soggy). Mix until the sugar dissolves and the pineapple is evenly distributed, adding a subtle tropical flavor to the bread.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense instead of light and fluffy.

Step 6: Add Shredded Coconut (Optional)

For an extra layer of tropical flavor, fold in 1/2 cup of sweetened shredded coconut. This adds a slight crunch and enhances the island vibe of the banana bread.

Step 7: Bake the Banana Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so start checking around the 50-minute mark.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This will ensure that the bread sets properly and slices cleanly.