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Coconut bread is a soft, quick bread that brings the essence of the tropics into your kitchen with the rich taste of coconut flakes and the smooth texture provided by coconut milk. It’s both moist and tender, making it a satisfying choice whether to reach for something sweet with your morning coffee or an afternoon treat.
Rich in flavor, yet easy to make, coconut bread has roots in Caribbean cuisine, often enjoyed during holidays or with afternoon coffee. If you’re a fan of moist, sweet loaves with a hint of nutty richness, this is the recipe.
A Taste of the Tropics in Your Kitchen
Many cultures feature coconut-based breads or cakes, especially in tropical regions. From Jamaica’s traditional coconut bread to Polynesian coconut rolls, the common thread is comfort and bold coconut flavor. If you love the idea of tropical baking, you’ll likely also enjoy this Pineapple Coconut Cake, a layered dessert bursting with fruity sweetness.
Coconut bread also appeals to those who seek dairy-free options, thanks to the natural creaminess of coconut milk. For more ways to enjoy naturally sweet and satisfying breads, try this hearty Sweet Potato Cornbread, which shares a similar rustic charm.
Ingredients: What You’ll Need
This recipe yields one standard loaf (about 10 slices).
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup canned coconut milk (use full-fat for best moisture and flavor)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Add-ins
- 1/4 cup crushed pineapple (drained)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts)
How to Make Coconut Bread
– Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
– Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Cinnamon and nutmeg
- Shredded coconut
– Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and creamy. Then stir in:
- Coconut milk
- Vegetable oil
- Vanilla extract
– Combine Dry and Wet Mixes
Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet mixture, stirring gently just until incorporated. Avoid over-blending to maintain a tender crumb.
– Prepare for Baking
Spoon the batter into your loaf pan and smooth out the surface to ensure even baking.
– Cool After Baking
Once baked, allow the bread to rest in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, gently remove it and let it cool thoroughly on a wire rack before slicing.
Serving Suggestions
Coconut bread is wonderfully flexible:
- Serve warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey.
- Toast slices and top with cream cheese or fruit preserves.
- Pair with tropical drinks like mango juice or iced tea.
For a savory counterpart, explore this Garlic Bread—perfect for balancing out sweeter options on your table.
Health Benefits of Coconut Bread
This loaf provides more than just flavor. Thanks to shredded coconut and coconut milk, it delivers:
- Healthy fats (including medium-chain triglycerides)
- Dietary fiber
- Lower lactose content (ideal for dairy-sensitive diets)
To further boost nutrition, try substituting part of the flour with whole wheat or almond flour. If coconut is your thing, you might also love these chewy Almond Coconut Bars for snacking.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Loaf
- Stir gently and stop once everything is combined – overworking the batter can reduce its fluffiness.
- Use full-fat coconut milk – It adds moisture and richness.
- Line your loaf pan – Easier removal and cleanup.
- Cool completely before slicing – This avoids crumbling and ensures flavor development.
Popular Variations
Here are some fun takes on the classic recipe:
- Banana Coconut Bread – Blend in two ripe bananas for added sweetness and a denser, moister crumb.
- Zesty Coconut Lime Bread – Mix in the juice and finely grated zest from one fresh lime to enhance the tropical profile.
- Vegan Coconut Bread – Replace eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based milk alternative.
- Spiced Coconut Bread – Double the cinnamon and nutmeg for a warmer flavor.
For another fruity companion treat, consider these delicious Banana Fritters, which make a great tropical side.
Storage Tips
Coconut bread stores well:
- Room temperature: 2–3 days in an airtight container
- Refrigerator: Up to 1 week when sealed tightly
- Freezer: Wrap individual slices and store them frozen for as long as three months. Reheat gently before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, a certified gluten-free flour blend designed for 1-to-1 substitutions works well in this recipe.
Can I substitute coconut oil for vegetable oil?
Absolutely—using coconut oil will intensify the coconut aroma and create a slightly richer taste.
Why did my bread come out dry?
This usually happens when the bread is left in the oven longer than needed. Start checking for doneness at the 50-minute mark.
Can I use desiccated coconut instead of shredded?
Yes, but consider reducing the amount slightly and adding more coconut milk to prevent dryness.
Is this bread sweet enough for dessert?
The base recipe is mildly sweet. If you prefer a dessert-style loaf, feel free to increase the sugar to 1 cup for added sweetness.