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.