Barbadian Coconut Bread Recipe

Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes  

   Prep Time: 15 minutes

Barbadian Coconut Bread Ingredients

Barbadian Coconut Bread Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg until well combined.
  3. Add 1/2 cup cold, cubed unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Stir in 2 cups freshly grated coconut, 1/2 cup golden raisins, 1/4 cup chopped dried cherries, 1/4 cup finely chopped candied ginger, and the zest of 1 lime. Toss to distribute evenly.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 3/4 cup whole milk, 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon almond extract, and 2 tablespoons dark rum until smooth.
  6. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Gently fold everything together with a spatula until just combined; do not overmix.
  7. Spoon the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  8. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons demerara sugar evenly over the surface of the batter for a crunchy topping.
  9. Bake in the center of the oven for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
  10. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Estimated Calories: 320, Servings: 10

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Bajan Coconut Bread History

You know, the cultural origins of Bajan Coconut Bread are like the best family reunion you never got invited to. Barbados is out there, just mixing African, British, and Caribbean influences like a DJ at a wedding who's had too much rum punch. I mean, who decided, "Let's take coconut, which is already delicious, and make it even better by putting it in bread?" That's a good idea if I've ever heard one. It's like the island looked at regular bread and said, "You know what would make you less boring? A tropical vacation." And honestly, if you're going to eat carbs, they might as well be healthy carbs, right? That's what I tell myself every time I have a slice.
Now, let's talk about how the recipe evolved. Back in the day, making Bajan Coconut Bread was not exactly a quick or easy process. You had to crack open a coconut, which is basically the CrossFit of baking. Fast forward to today, and you can just buy shredded coconut at the store. It's so easy, even I could do it, and I once burned water. The best part is, every family has their own "secret" recipe, which usually just means they add a little more rum or a little less sugar, depending on how good their week was. It's like the bread version of a mood ring-delicious, but also slightly unpredictable.
Regional adaptations are where things get really interesting. You travel around Barbados, and every village swears their coconut bread is the best. Some folks add raisins, some add cherries, and some just add a great big helping of pride. I even heard about a guy who tried to make a gluten free version, which is a good way to get yourself uninvited from Sunday dinner. But hey, it's all about keeping things fresh and healthy, right? The best thing about Bajan Coconut Bread is that it's so versatile-whether you want it fast and easy or you want to spend all day making it, you're guaranteed a delicious result. Unless you forget the coconut. Then you just have bread, and that's not nearly as much fun.

Storage Tips

Let us talk about storage, because if you have ever tried to hide a delicious Bajan Coconut Bread from your family, you know it is like trying to keep a secret in a small town. The best way to store this treat is in an airtight container, unless you want it to turn into a doorstop faster than you can say "quick snack." Seriously, if you just leave it out on the counter, it will dry out so fast you will think it is auditioning for a role as a kitchen sponge. So, do yourself a favor and keep it sealed up tight, unless you are into eating coconut-flavored cardboard, which, by the way, is not a healthy choice.
Now, let us get into shelf life, because nothing says "living on the edge" like eating week-old bread and hoping for the best. A good Bajan Coconut Bread recipe will last about three to five days at room temperature, but if you want to stretch it out, pop it in the fridge and you might get a week. But let us be honest, this bread is so easy and fast to eat, it rarely lasts that long. If you find yourself with leftovers after a week, either you made too much or you need to invite some friends over who appreciate a great, healthy snack. Or maybe you just need to work on your sharing skills!
Spoilage signs are where things get interesting, because nothing ruins a good day like biting into something that tastes like it has been fermenting since last Christmas. If your coconut bread starts growing a beard, or smells like it is auditioning for a role in a science experiment, it is time to say goodbye. Trust me, no recipe is worth risking your digestive system for. So, if you see mold, weird colors, or it feels like a brick, toss it out and make a fresh, delicious batch. After all, life is too short for bad bread and questionable decisions!

About Bajan Coconut Bread Recipe

If you're searching for the best and most authentic Barbadian Coconut Bread recipe, you've come to the right place! This delicious treat is a staple in Barbadian households, loved for its rich coconut flavor and moist texture. The best part? It's surprisingly easy and quick to make at home, even if you're new to baking. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a homemade loaf that's perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a tasty snack any time of day.
Wondering how to make this classic recipe? The secret to the perfect Barbadian Coconut Bread lies in using fresh, quality ingredients and following a few key tips. Grated coconut, flour, sugar, and a hint of spice come together to create a truly delicious and authentic flavor. Whether you're making it for a family gathering or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this easy recipe guarantees a moist and flavorful result every time. Don't forget to sprinkle a little extra coconut on top for that irresistible finish!
If you're looking for a quick and simple way to impress your friends and family, this Barbadian Coconut Bread recipe is the answer. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it's also incredibly tasty and versatile. Serve it warm with a pat of butter, or enjoy it on its own-the possibilities are endless! For the best results, follow our tips for mixing and baking, and you'll have the perfect homemade coconut bread every time. Get ready to fall in love with this delicious, authentic Barbadian treat!

Bajan Coconut Bread Story

You know, the first time I tried making this, I thought I was a genius. I had the recipe in one hand and a sense of confidence in the other. Turns out, confidence is not a substitute for reading comprehension. I mixed up teaspoons and tablespoons, and let me tell you, the result was not the best. It was more like a science experiment gone wrong. My family took one bite and immediately started looking for the nearest glass of water. I learned that sometimes, the only thing quick about a fast recipe is how quickly you can ruin it.
The next time, I figured I would go for the healthy approach. You know, swap out some ingredients, make it all organic, maybe even impress someone. Well, apparently, not all substitutions are created equal. The bread came out looking good, but the taste was... let us just say, not delicious. It was like eating a yoga mat with a hint of regret. I realized that just because something is easy to make does not mean it is easy to eat. Sometimes, the best thing you can do is stick to the original plan.
After a few more attempts and a lot of kitchen disasters, I finally got it right. I learned that patience is a great ingredient, and following directions is not just for people who get lost on road trips. Now, when I make it, it is actually edible, and people ask for seconds instead of directions to the nearest restaurant. Cooking taught me that mistakes are just part of the process, and if you can laugh at yourself, you are already doing pretty good. Plus, nothing brings people together like a delicious dish and a story about how you almost set the kitchen on fire.

Healthy Bajan Coconut Bread Tips

Let's talk about making your favorite Barbadian Coconut Bread recipe a health superstar! You want the best, most delicious, and authentic coconut bread, but you also want to fit into your jeans, right? Here's the deal: swap out that regular flour for whole wheat or even almond flour-trust me, your health will thank you, and your taste buds won't even notice the difference. Use coconut oil instead of butter for that homemade, tasty, and easy upgrade. And don't even get me started on sugar-ditch half of it and toss in some honey or a sugar substitute. You'll still get that perfect, quick, and simple flavor, but your arteries won't be calling for backup. The best part? You can brag to your friends that your Barbadian recipe is now a health food. Who knew coconut bread could be so sneaky?
Now, let's get real about those ingredients. You want tips for the best, most authentic, and healthy coconut bread? Add some flaxseed or chia seeds for a fiber boost-because nothing says "I care about my health" like a little extra roughage in your life. And if you're feeling wild, throw in some grated carrots or zucchini. It's like hiding vegetables in your dessert-your kids will never know, and your doctor will want your recipe. The secret to how to make this Barbadian classic both tasty and healthy is all about those simple swaps. So, next time someone asks for your coconut bread recipe, just wink and say, "It's the best, and it's practically a salad."