Pineapple Coconut Bread Recipe

If you’re craving a slice of sunshine that melts in your mouth, look no further than Pineapple Coconut Bread. This tropical treat is a perfect harmony of sweet pineapple and rich coconut, wrapped in a tender, moist bread that feels like a vacation with every bite. Whether you’re serving it at brunch or just need a cheerful snack, this Pineapple Coconut Bread brings a burst of flavor and a hug of comfort that’s impossible to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Pineapple Coconut Bread starts with simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a key role in delivering that perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and tropical flair. Here’s everything that makes this bread so unforgettable:

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of your bread, providing structure and a soft texture.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that golden crust.
• Baking powder: A leavening agent that gives the bread its rise.
• Baking soda: Works alongside baking powder for a light, fluffy texture.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Unsweetened shredded coconut: Brings a chewy texture and rich coconut flavor.
• Crushed pineapple: The star of the show! It adds moisture and a burst of tropical sweetness.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb.
• Large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure.
• Vanilla extract: A splash of warmth that complements the tropical flavors.
• Buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang, making the bread tender.

For an extra special version, toss in chopped macadamia nuts or walnuts for a gentle crunch, or use coconut milk instead of buttermilk to amplify that coconut goodness.

How to Make Pineapple Coconut Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start your Pineapple Coconut Bread adventure by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even bake from start to finish. While it’s warming up, grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking and guarantee easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and shredded coconut. This step not only blends the flavors but also evenly distributes the leavening agents, which helps your bread rise beautifully and stay tender.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, stir together melted butter (warm but not hot to avoid cooking the eggs), eggs, vanilla extract, buttermilk, and crushed pineapple. This wet mixture is where the tropical magic really starts to come together—a delicious melody of sweet, creamy, and tangy notes.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour your wet ingredients into the dry mix and stir gently until just combined. Remember, a few lumps are perfectly fine here! Overmixing can lead to a dense, less tender bread, and we want everything light, fluffy, and inviting.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top gently with a spatula. Pop it in the oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center—it should come out clean. Your kitchen will soon be filled with a tropical aroma that’s utterly irresistible.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked to perfection, let the bread cool in its pan for about 10 minutes, which helps it set and makes it easier to remove. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Patience is key here because each slice promises a delightful burst of tropical happiness!

How to Serve Pineapple Coconut Bread

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkling of toasted shredded coconut add an extra layer of beauty and texture. A smear of sweetened cream cheese or a drizzle of honey elevates each bite with creamy or floral contrast.

Side Dishes

Pineapple Coconut Bread pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit salad or a dollop of Greek yogurt, making it a great addition to brunch or a snack break. For a more indulgent touch, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of tropical-flavored tea.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation can make this dish even more special. Try slicing the bread and toasting it lightly before serving to bring out the nutty coconut flavor. You can also cut it into cubes and use it as a unique base for tropical bread pudding or skewered with fruit for a fun party treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Pineapple Coconut Bread keeps beautifully when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps retain moisture and freshness, so your slice tastes just as good the next day.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this tropical delight later, you can freeze the bread for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked taste and warmth, reheat slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. You can also microwave single slices for 15 to 20 seconds, but a gentle oven reheat helps keep the texture just right.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of crushed pineapple?

Absolutely! Just make sure to drain the fresh pineapple well so your bread doesn’t become too soggy. Chopping it finely will also help it mix evenly throughout the bread.

Is it possible to make Pineapple Coconut Bread gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking, you can enjoy this bread without gluten. Just keep in mind that texture may vary slightly.

Can I add nuts to this recipe?

Definitely! Chopped macadamia nuts, walnuts, or pecans add a delicious crunch and additional flavor. Stir them in with the dry ingredients for even distribution.

What’s the best way to slice this bread?

Use a serrated knife and slice gently to maintain the bread’s delicate crumb. Allowing the loaf to cool fully helps achieve clean, neat slices.

Can I substitute buttermilk with regular milk?

You can, but to mimic the slight tang of buttermilk, add a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to one cup of milk and let it sit for five minutes before using. This helps maintain the bread’s tender crumb and flavor balance.

Final Thoughts

Making Pineapple Coconut Bread is like inviting a little slice of the tropics into your kitchen and sharing it with loved ones. Its tender texture, sweet pineapple bursts, and chewy coconut bits make each bite a joy. I promise once you try this recipe, it will become a treasured favorite you’ll want to bake again and again.

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