Mediterranean Festive Trinidad Coconut Sweet Bread
Mediterranean Festive Trinidad Coconut Sweet Bread is a joyful blend of Caribbean tradition and Mediterranean warmth. This bread is rich, aromatic, and filled with coconut, dried fruits, and gentle spices. It is the kind of bake that fills the kitchen with a celebratory smell and invites everyone to gather around the table. While traditionally enjoyed during holidays and special occasions, this sweet bread is just as welcome with a quiet cup of tea.
What makes this version special is its balance. It is moist without being heavy, sweet without being overwhelming, and deeply flavorful thanks to spices, citrus zest, and coconut. The Mediterranean touch comes through in the use of natural dairy, warm spices, and a softer sweetness that lets the ingredients shine.
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Bake Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 10 to 12 slices
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 cup granulated sugar or light brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
Main Flavor Components
1 1/2 cups grated fresh coconut or unsweetened shredded coconut
1 cup mixed dried fruits such as raisins, currants, chopped cherries, and mixed peel or candied fruit
Wet Ingredients
3 large eggs
1/2 cup melted butter or margarine, cooled slightly
1 cup evaporated milk or regular milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond essence or mixed essence
Additional
1/4 cup water for soaking dried fruits
Optional Additions
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger or a pinch of grated tonka bean
2 tablespoons sour cream or yogurt
Zest of 1 lime or lemon
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
Combine dried fruits with water in a small bowl and set aside to soften.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, sugar, salt, and spices.
Stir grated coconut into the dry mixture until evenly distributed.
In a separate bowl, whisk eggs until lightly frothy.
Add melted butter, milk, vanilla, almond essence, sour cream if using, and citrus zest.
Pour wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined.
Fold in the soaked dried fruits along with any remaining liquid.
Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 50 to 55 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Tips
Use fresh coconut if possible for deeper flavor and moisture.
Do not overmix the batter or the bread may turn dense.
Soaking dried fruits prevents them from drying out during baking.
Let melted butter cool slightly before adding to eggs.
Check bread at 45 minutes and tent with foil if browning too fast.
Allow bread to cool 15 minutes before removing from pan.
Citrus zest brightens the richness of coconut and spices.
Use room temperature eggs for better texture.
Measure flour accurately to avoid dryness.
Slice only after fully cooled for clean cuts.
Variations
Replace some flour with whole wheat flour for a rustic loaf.
Add chopped dates or figs for extra sweetness.
Use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk.
Add a rum or orange extract for festive aroma.
Include chopped nuts like almonds or pecans.
Make mini loaves for gifting.
Add a light honey glaze after baking.
Use yogurt instead of sour cream for tang.
Add extra spices for a bolder profile.
Toast slices lightly before serving.
Q & A
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day.
How should it be stored?
Wrap tightly and store at room temperature for 3 days.
Can I freeze this bread?
Yes, freeze slices or whole loaf for up to 2 months.
Is fresh coconut required?
No, unsweetened shredded coconut works well.
Can I reduce sugar?
Yes, slightly reduce without affecting structure.
Does it need frosting?
No, it is flavorful on its own.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use plant milk and dairy-free butter.
Why is my bread dense?
Overmixing or too much flour can cause this.
Can I add yeast?
This recipe is quick bread and does not need yeast.
What pairs well with it?
Tea, coffee, or fresh fruit.
Nutrition
(Approximate per Slice)
Calories: 310
Protein: 6g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 20g
Conclusion
Mediterranean Festive Trinidad Coconut Sweet Bread is more than a recipe. It is a celebration baked into a loaf. The coconut, spices, and fruit come together in a way that feels nostalgic and comforting, yet fresh and balanced. Whether served during holidays or shared on an ordinary afternoon, this bread brings warmth, flavor, and a sense of occasion to any table.