Bajan Sweet Bread (Barbados) is a delightful treat that showcases the tropical flavors of coconut, raisins, and cherries. The soft, sweet bread is perfect as a snack or served with your morning coffee, making it a true taste of the Caribbean in your kitchen.
For those with a coconut allergy, consider substituting with extra flour or oats to maintain the texture. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut oil and alternative milk can make the bread just as delightful. The fruit adds not only sweetness but also moisture, so feel free to swap in other dried fruits if desired. Choosing high-quality ingredients will really enhance the flavor of Bajan Sweet Bread.
Bread & Rolls
Bajan Sweet Bread (Barbados) Recipe
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup shortening (or coconut oil)
- 1/3 cup butter
- 2 cups flour
- 1 pinch salt
- 2 1/4 cups grated coconut
- 1/4 cup raisins, chopped
- 1/4 cup dried cherries, chopped
- 1 tablespoon grated nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon almond extract
- 1 1/3 cups evaporated milk
- 3 tablespoons water
- 1 tablespoon butter (for pan)
- 2 tablespoons turbinado sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a bread pan; the recipe suggests one pan for best results as the dough doesn’t rise much.
- In a mixer, cream together 3/4 cup brown sugar, 1/3 cup shortening, and 1/3 cup butter until light and fluffy.
- Add 2 cups flour, 1 pinch salt, 2 1/4 cups grated coconut, 1/4 cup chopped raisins, 1/4 cup chopped dried cherries, and 1 tablespoon grated nutmeg, mixing well to combine all ingredients.
- Next, stir in 1 tablespoon almond extract, 1 1/3 cups evaporated milk, and 3 tablespoons water until a firm dough forms, adding more water if needed to achieve the right consistency.
- Transfer the dough into the prepared pan, smoothing it out evenly, then use a knife to cut a diagonal criss-cross pattern on top.
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon turbinado sugar over the top of the dough for a sweet, crunchy finish.
- Bake for about 1 hour, checking that a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean or that a digital thermometer reads 190°F. Allow to cool completely in the pan before attempting to remove.