Bajan Coconut Bread (Sweet Bread) Recipe: A Taste of Barbados in Every Bite

If you’ve ever been to Barbados—or lucky enough to know someone who brings back culinary treasures—you’ve probably tasted the rich, fragrant delight that is Bajan Coconut Bread, also known simply as sweet bread. This Caribbean classic is a staple on the island, often served during the holidays, family gatherings, or as an everyday teatime treat. Packed with freshly grated coconut, warm spices, and a golden crusted top, Bajan sweet bread tells the story of island comfort, heritage, and heart.

🥥 What Makes Bajan Sweet Bread Special?

At its core, this bread isn’t overly sweet like a cake. It walks the perfect line between bread and dessert. The freshly grated coconut (no substitutes, if you can help it!) is what gives this bread its rich texture and signature tropical flavor. Many Bajans elevate it with raisins, cherries, or even a splash of rum.

Unlike many Western-style loaves, Bajan coconut bread is dense, rustic, and made to be enjoyed sliced thick with a smear of butter—or on its own with a hot cup of bush tea or cocoa.

📜 Traditional Bajan Coconut Bread Recipe

Yield: 2 medium loaves

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp ground cinnamon

• ¼ tsp grated nutmeg

• ¼ tsp salt

• 1¼ cups brown sugar

• 2 cups freshly grated coconut (or unsweetened shredded coconut)

• ½ cup raisins (optional)

• ¼ cup candied cherries, chopped (optional)

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ½ tsp almond extract (optional)

• ½ cup evaporated milk

• ½ cup water

• Extra coconut or brown sugar for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour two loaf pans.

2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

3. Add coconut and fruits: Stir in grated coconut, raisins, and cherries (if using).

4. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, vanilla, almond extract, evaporated milk, and water until smooth.

5. Make the batter: Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined—don’t overmix. The batter will be thick.

6. Divide and top: Pour into the prepared loaf pans. If you like, sprinkle extra coconut or brown sugar on top for a crunchy crust.

7. Bake: Bake for 55–65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the tops are golden brown.

8. Cool & serve: Allow to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Slice when completely cool.

📝 Bajan Sweet Bread Tips:

• Fresh coconut makes a big difference—if you have access to it, crack it open and grate it fresh.

• To make it more festive, add a splash of dark Bajan rum to the batter.

• This bread freezes beautifully. Just wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months.

Bajan coconut bread is more than a recipe—it's a cultural hug in edible form. Whether you’re enjoying a slice for breakfast, dessert, or sharing it during a holiday, this sweet bread carries a piece of Barbados with it. Make a loaf, share it with loved ones, and enjoy the tropical flavors that have been passed down through generations of Bajan kitchens.