Go Back Email Link

Coconut Dumb Bread

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Course: Bread
Cuisine: Island Favorites

Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 2 tablespoons baking powder
  • 5 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 cup grated coconut fresh or unsweetened shredded
  • 2 tablespoons shortening
  • 2 tablespoons margarine or butter
  • 6 tablespoons coconut milk
  • 6 tablespoons coconut water

Instructions

Preheat Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking powder, and sugar until well combined.

Add Coconut:

  • Stir in the grated coconut evenly through the flour mixture.

Cut in Fats:

  • Add shortening and margarine. Use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to work the fats into the flour until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.

Add Liquid:

  • Mix together the coconut milk and coconut water. Gradually pour the liquid into the flour mixture, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. (You may not need all the liquid depending on your coconut’s moisture.)

Form the Dough:

  • Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Gently knead just 4–5 times — just enough to bring it together. Do not overwork.

Shape and Bake:

  • Shape the dough into a round loaf, about 1 to 1½ inches thick. Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.

Cool & Serve:

  • Let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature with butter, cheese, or your favorite savory topping.

Chef Winston’s Tip:

  • For extra island flair, brush the top with a bit of coconut milk before baking for a slight crust and shine. This bread also reheats beautifully in a toaster oven the next day.

Notes

A traditional Caribbean-style coconut bread with a hearty, biscuit-like crumb — slightly sweet, deeply satisfying, and perfect with butter, cheese, or saltfish.