Name: Trinidad Coconut Sweet Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Caribbean
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1 1/2 cups grated coconut (fresh or desiccated); 1/2 cup raisins; 1/2 cup chopped mixed peel or cherries; 1 cup evaporated milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1 egg; Optional: additional sugar and coconut flakes for topping

Why You’ll Love Trinidad Coconut Sweet Bread Recipe

Bursting with coconut goodness
Warm, cozy spices like cinnamon and nutmeg
Dried fruit adds natural sweetness and texture
No yeast required — easy to make at home
Versatile for breakfast, snacks, or dessert

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Dry Ingredients
3 cups all‑purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg

Wet Ingredients
1 cup freshly grated coconut (or unsweetened shredded coconut)
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup evaporated milk (or coconut milk for extra richness)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg

Add‑ins
½ cup raisins or currants
¼ cup mixed peel (optional)
¼ cup chopped cherries (optional)

Optional Topping
2 tablespoons sugar mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for a light glaze)
¼ cup shredded coconut to sprinkle on top

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×5‑inch loaf pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Stir in the grated coconut, raisins, mixed peel, and cherries so they’re coated with the dry ingredients.
In another bowl, cream the softened butter. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and evaporated milk, mixing until combined.
Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined — avoid overmixing.
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. If using, sprinkle shredded coconut over the top.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
If you want a light glaze, mix sugar and water, then brush over the warm loaf right after baking. Allow the bread to cool before slicing.

Servings and timing

Servings: Approximately 8
Prep time: About 15 minutes
Cook time: 50–60 minutes
Total time: Around 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Add nuts like chopped pecans or almonds for crunch.
Use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk for an even richer coconut flavor.
Swap raisins for dried cranberries or currants if preferred.

Storage/Reheating

Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Freeze slices for up to 3 months; thaw before serving.
To reheat, warm slices in a toaster or oven at low heat until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make this bread gluten‑free?

Yes, substitute all‑purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten‑free baking flour blend.

2. Can I use sweetened coconut instead of unsweetened?

You can, but it will make the bread sweeter. If using sweetened coconut, consider reducing the sugar slightly.

3. Can I make this dairy‑free?

Yes — use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk and dairy‑free butter.

4. What if I don’t have mixed peel or cherries?

You can omit them or increase the amount of raisins or currants.

5. Do I have to grate fresh coconut?

Freshly grated coconut has the best flavor, but unsweetened shredded coconut works well too.

6. How do I know when the bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center — it should come out clean.

7. Can I add spices like ginger?

Yes, a pinch of ground ginger adds warmth and depth.

8. Should I overmix the batter?

No, overmixing can make the bread dense and tough.

9. Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?

Yes, brown sugar can add a deeper, molasses‑like flavor.

10. Is this bread good toasted?

Yes, toasting enhances flavor and texture — delicious with butter.

Conclusion

Trinidad Coconut Sweet Bread is a delicious Caribbean classic with rich coconut flavor and warm spices. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday or just a cozy afternoon treat, this easy, yeast‑free bread is sure to delight family and friends. With simple ingredients and versatile variations, it’s a recipe worth returning to again and again.