Coconut Bread
Soft and fluffy bread made with coconut milk and shredded coconut, a staple in Caribbean and Polynesian cuisines.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1 cup coconut milk (canned or fresh)
- ¼ cup sugar
- ¼ cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)
- ¼ cup melted butter or coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Additional shredded coconut for topping (optional)
Instructions
Preparation:
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, heat the coconut milk until warm but not hot. Stir in the sugar and sprinkle the yeast over the surface. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, shredded coconut, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and melted butter or coconut oil. Stir until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment for this step.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1-2 hours until doubled in size.
- Shape the Loaf: Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Shape it into a loaf and place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let it rise again for another 30-45 minutes until it reaches the top of the pan.
- Bake the Bread: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Optionally, brush the top of the loaf with some melted butter or coconut oil and sprinkle with shredded coconut. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Serve the Coconut Bread warm or at room temperature, plain or with your favorite spreads.
Notes
Enjoy slices of Coconut Bread plain or toasted with butter or jam for breakfast or as a snack.
Use it to make sandwiches or French toast for a delicious and tropical twist on classic dishes.
Serve alongside soups, salads, or curries to soak up the flavorful sauces.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Coconut Bread is a delightful treat that's perfect for any occasion, bringing the flavors of the Caribbean and Polynesia right to your table. Enjoy the soft and fluffy texture and the sweet, nutty flavor of shredded coconut in every bite!
