Recipe: Corn Islands Coconut Bread

Coconut bread is a traditional Caribbean bread enjoyed on the Corn Islands and throughout the region. This bread, made with coconut milk, has a slightly sweet and starchy flavour. On the Corn Islands, traditional bakers prepare coconut bread daily, serving it for breakfast or supper. It is often paired with coffee, hot cocoa, or a more substantial meal.

Ingredients

Coconut bread is made from simple yet delicious ingredients, typically including:

Shredded coconut: The star ingredient provides rich coconut flavour and texture.

Wheat flour: Forms the base of the bread, giving it structure and texture.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the bread.

Yeast: Essential for fermentation, helping the dough rise.

Coconut milk: Enhances the coconut flavour and adds moisture.

Butter or oil: Contributes to the softness and moisture of the bread.

Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavour.

Eggs: Optional, but it improves the bread's texture and structure.

Vanilla extract or coconut essence: Optional, but can intensify the coconut flavour.

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven:

   - Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).

   - Grease a baking pan suitable for your coconut bread.

2. Combine dry ingredients

   - Mix 2 cups of wheat flour, 1 cup of shredded coconut, 1 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a large bowl.

   - Ensure all dry ingredients are well combined.

3. Prepare wet ingredients

   - In another bowl, beat 2 eggs.

   - Add 1 cup of coconut milk, ½ cup of melted butter (or oil), and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (if using). 

   - Mix the wet ingredients well.

4. Mix the batter

   - Add the wet ingredient mixture to the dry ingredient mixture.

   - Stir until you get a homogeneous dough. Avoid overmixing; combine just until the ingredients are integrated.

5. Bake the bread

   - Pour the batter into the greased baking pan and spread it evenly.

   - Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.

   - Baking times may vary, so keep an eye on the bread as it bakes.

6. Cool and serve

   - Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes.

   - Unmold the bread and place it on a wire rack to cool completely.

   - When completely cool, cut into slices and serve.