This Jamaican Banana Bread is a delicious twist on the traditional banana bread, infused with warm spices, coconut, and a hint of rum. It’s moist, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion—whether as a breakfast treat, a dessert, or an afternoon snack. With its tropical ingredients, this banana bread will transport your taste buds straight to the Caribbean. Let’s get baking and bring a little island flavor into your kitchen!

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients for Jamaican Banana Bread
2. Instructions for Jamaican Banana Bread
3. Tips & Notes
4. Recipe Variations & Substitutions
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
6. Conclusion

Ingredients for Jamaican Banana Bread

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon dark rum (optional)
• 1/4 cup coconut milk
• 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Instructions for Jamaican Banana Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

• In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
• Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and dark rum (if using).

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
• Stir in the coconut milk and mashed bananas until fully incorporated. Fold in the shredded coconut and chopped walnuts or pecans if using.

Step 5: Bake

• Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Notes

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the bread will be. Look for bananas that are heavily spotted or almost completely brown.
• Rum for Flavor: The dark rum adds an authentic Jamaican touch, but it is optional. If you prefer, you can leave it out or substitute it with extra vanilla extract.
• Coconut Milk: Using coconut milk adds extra moisture and a subtle coconut flavor that enhances the tropical theme of the bread.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

• Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a rich, sweet addition to the banana bread.
• Pineapple Banana Bread: Fold in 1/2 cup of drained crushed pineapple for a fruity twist that pairs well with the coconut.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make this banana bread gluten-free. Ensure all other ingredients are also certified gluten-free.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I store Jamaican Banana Bread?

Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 1 week or freeze it for up to 3 months.

2. Can I make this banana bread into muffins?

Yes! Simply divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

3. Can I omit the coconut?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of coconut, you can leave out the shredded coconut and substitute the coconut milk with regular whole milk or buttermilk.

This Jamaican Banana Bread is a wonderful way to bring the flavors of the Caribbean to your kitchen. With its warm spices, coconut, and hint of rum, it’s a tropical twist on a beloved classic that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack, this banana bread is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious taste of the islands!

Happy baking, and enjoy every bite of this tropical treat!