Trinidad Sweet Bread

Why Make This Recipe
Trinidad Sweet Bread is a delightful treat that brings the flavors of the Caribbean right to your kitchen. It’s perfect for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert. The combination of sweet coconut, raisins, and spices creates a rich and satisfying bread that everyone will love. Making this bread at home is rewarding, and the delicious aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is just a bonus!
How to Make Trinidad Sweet Bread
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups brown sugar (plus 3 tablespoons)
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups finely grated coconut
- 1/2 cup seedless raisins
- 1/2 cup mixed fruit (optional)
- 1/2 cup butter (melted)
- 3/4 cup evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- 1 tablespoon ginger (grated, optional)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease two bread pans (9×5) or one large and one small bread pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
- Stir in the coconut, raisins, and mixed fruit (if using).
- In a measuring cup, add the milk, eggs, and butter. Whisk to combine.
- Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and mix just until combined; the dough should be slightly sticky.
- Divide the dough, form it into a loaf with your hands, and place it in the prepared pans.
- Bake until fully cooked and a toothpick or skewer comes out clean, about 1 hour.
- At the end of baking, mix 1 tablespoon of sugar with water and brush it over the bread. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
- Enjoy your Trinidad Sweet Bread!
How to Serve Trinidad Sweet Bread
Trinidad Sweet Bread is best served warm. You can slice it and enjoy it plain, or spread a little butter on top for added flavor. It pairs well with a cup of tea or coffee. This bread can also be served as a festive treat during holidays and celebrations.
How to Store Trinidad Sweet Bread
To store your Trinidad Sweet Bread, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can keep it at room temperature for a few days, or refrigerate it for a week. If you want to store it for longer, consider freezing it. Wrap it well before placing it in the freezer, and it can last for up to three months.
Tips to Make Trinidad Sweet Bread
- Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
- If you like a stronger flavor, feel free to add more spices.
- Use fresh, shredded coconut if possible for the best taste.
- Don’t overmix the dough; just combine until wet ingredients are mixed in.
Variation
You can add nuts such as walnuts or almonds for some extra crunch. If you prefer a different flavor, consider substituting the mixed fruit with your favorite dried fruits.
FAQs
1. Can I make Trinidad Sweet Bread without eggs?
Yes, you can use a flaxseed egg or applesauce as a substitute if you want to make it egg-free.
2. How long does it take to bake this bread?
It usually takes about 1 hour to bake properly, but always check with a toothpick to ensure it’s done.
3. Can I use unsweetened coconut?
Yes, unsweetened coconut can be used, but you may want to adjust the sugar slightly to maintain optimal sweetness.

Trinidad Sweet Bread
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 cups brown sugar plus 3 tablespoons
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ginger grated, optional
Wet Ingredients
- 3 cups finely grated coconut
- 1/2 cup seedless raisins
- 1/2 cup mixed fruit optional
- 1/2 cup butter melted
- 3/4 cup evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 pieces eggs beaten
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (162°C). Grease two 9x5 inch bread pans or one large and one small bread pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
- Stir in the coconut, raisins, and mixed fruit (if using).
- In a measuring cup, add the milk, eggs, and melted butter. Whisk to combine.
- Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and mix just until combined; the dough should be slightly sticky.
- Divide the dough, form it into a loaf with your hands, and place it in the prepared pans.
Baking
- Bake until fully cooked and a toothpick or skewer comes out clean, about 1 hour.
- At the end of baking, mix 1 tablespoon of sugar with water and brush it over the bread. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
Serving
- Enjoy your Trinidad Sweet Bread warm. Slice it and enjoy it plain or spread a little butter on top. It pairs well with tea or coffee.