This banana bread combines overripe bananas with a splash of spiced rum, resulting in a moist, tender crumb infused with warm flavors. Topped with crunchy toasted coconut, it offers a delightful contrast in texture and a rich, fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or cozy afternoons, it’s a simple treat with a special twist.
1/2cupunsalted buttermelted or browned for extra flavor
1/2cupbrown sugardark or light
2tablespoonsspiced rumor vanilla extract as a substitute
1 1/2cupsall-purpose flour
1/2teaspoonbaking soda
1/4teaspoonsalt
1/2cuptoasted coconutsee instructions for toasting
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease your loaf pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
In a dry skillet or toaster oven, toast the shredded coconut over medium heat until golden and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning, then set aside to cool.
Place the ripe bananas in a large bowl and mash with a fork until mostly smooth, leaving some chunks for texture.
Add the melted butter, brown sugar, and spiced rum to the mashed bananas. Whisk together until the mixture is well combined and smells warm and inviting.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt to combine evenly.
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture using a spatula, just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—lumps are okay and help keep the bread tender.
Fold in the toasted coconut, distributing it evenly throughout the batter for added crunch and flavor.
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula for an even surface.
Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. Check at 50 minutes—if the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, it's ready. If not, bake for a few more minutes.
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it rest in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Slice the bread once cooled, revealing a moist crumb with a golden top and crunchy coconut bits. Enjoy warm or at room temperature with your favorite spread or plain for a cozy treat.
Notes
For extra flavor, sprinkle a little cinnamon on the batter before baking or add chocolate chips for a decadent twist.