Easy Coconut Loaf is my go-to recipe for cozy mornings or family gatherings. Inspired by Mary Berry coconut loaf cake recipes and Nigella’s classics, this moist coconut loaf cake combines desiccated coconut with a touch of coconut milk for extra richness. Whether you prefer an old fashioned coconut loaf or a zesty lemon and coconut loaf twist, this easy coconut cake doubles as coconut loaf bread, perfect for tea, brunch, or a quick, customizable dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy Coconut Loaf is a recipe that brings comfort, flavor, and simplicity to your kitchen. Inspired by classic Mary Berry coconut loaf cake recipes and Nigella’s coconut loaf cake techniques, this easy coconut cake is both moist and versatile. You can make a traditional old fashioned coconut loaf or try a lemon and coconut loaf variation for a refreshing twist. Using a desiccated coconut cake recipe, it doubles as coconut loaf bread perfect for breakfast, tea, or dessert. This easy coconut loaf with coconut milk produces a rich, tender crumb, while the version without coconut milk still delivers a moist coconut loaf cake. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly treat, a quick easy coconut cake for busy weeknights, or a show-stopping dessert, this recipe is approachable, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. The combination of classic techniques and simple ingredients makes this easy coconut loaf a must-try for anyone who loves coconut desserts. Perfect for slicing, sharing, and enjoying anytime, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Ingredients for This Recipe
The ingredients for this Easy Coconut Loaf are simple, pantry-friendly, and designed to produce a moist coconut loaf cake with rich flavor. Using a combination of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda ensures a light, tender crumb, while granulated sugar and unsalted butter provide sweetness and richness. Eggs and vanilla extract bind and flavor the batter, and coconut milk adds extra moisture for a soft texture. Desiccated coconut is essential for that classic coconut flavor, and a lemon and coconut loaf variation adds a bright, zesty twist. Optional toppings like extra desiccated coconut or a dusting of powdered sugar make the coconut loaf bread even more appealing, perfect for breakfast, tea, or dessert. Whether you choose an easy coconut loaf with coconut milk or without, this desiccated coconut cake recipe is both easy and delicious. This easy coconut cake is versatile, family-friendly, and can be customized to your taste preferences, making it a staple for any occasion.
🛒 Ingredients (for one standard loaf, ~9×5-inch pan):
For the Cake:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
¾ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
½ cup coconut milk (or regular milk)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup desiccated coconut
Optional: zest of 1 lemon for a fresh twist
For the Topping (optional):
2–3 tbsp desiccated coconut
2 tbsp powdered sugar for dusting
How to Make This Recipe
Making this Easy Coconut Loaf is simple and rewarding, combining techniques from classic Mary Berry coconut loaf cake recipes and Nigella-inspired coconut loaf cake methods. This easy coconut cake creates a moist coconut loaf cake every time, whether you follow an old fashioned coconut loaf approach or try a zesty lemon and coconut loaf variation. Using a desiccated coconut cake recipe ensures the signature coconut flavor and texture in your coconut loaf bread. You can make an easy coconut loaf with coconut milk for extra richness or easy coconut loaf without coconut milk for a lighter version. The steps are straightforward, perfect for beginners or busy weeknights, and deliver a tender, flavorful loaf that is ideal for breakfast, tea, or dessert. This easy coconut cake is versatile, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser, making it a must-try coconut loaf bread recipe.
🛒 Steps:
Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and desiccated coconut from your desiccated coconut cake recipe.
Step 3: In a large bowl, cream softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
Step 4: Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients, alternating with coconut milk for easy coconut loaf with coconut milk or milk for easy coconut loaf without coconut milk.
Step 5: Pour batter into prepared pan, smooth the top, and sprinkle optional desiccated coconut or lemon zest for a lemon and coconut loaf variation.
Step 6: Bake 45–50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pan 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy as coconut loaf bread or a classic easy coconut cake.
Expert Cooking Tips
Creating the perfect Easy Coconut Loaf is all about technique and ingredient balance. Drawing inspiration from Mary Berry coconut loaf cake recipes and Nigella’s coconut loaf cake methods, this easy coconut cake achieves a moist coconut loaf cake texture every time. Using a desiccated coconut cake recipe ensures authentic coconut flavor in your coconut loaf bread. You can make an old fashioned coconut loaf for a classic touch, a lemon and coconut loaf for brightness, or choose between easy coconut loaf with coconut milk or easy coconut loaf without coconut milk depending on your preference. These expert tips help maximize flavor, moisture, and texture while keeping the recipe simple and approachable for any baker.
💡 Expert Tips:
Use room-temperature butter and eggs to ensure an even, moist coconut loaf cake.
Do not overmix the batter when folding in your desiccated coconut; this preserves the tender crumb in your coconut loaf bread.
For a lemon and coconut loaf twist, add zest to the batter without increasing liquid ingredients.
Check doneness with a toothpick to avoid overbaking your easy coconut cake or old fashioned coconut loaf.
If making easy coconut loaf with coconut milk, use full-fat coconut milk for richer flavor and moisture.
Optional: sprinkle extra desiccated coconut on top for texture and visual appeal.
Cool completely before slicing to maintain the structure of your moist coconut loaf cake.
FAQs
What is the best way to make a moist coconut loaf cake?
To achieve a perfectly moist coconut loaf cake, use full-fat coconut milk in your easy coconut loaf with coconut milk version, and do not overmix the batter when folding in desiccated coconut. Following a desiccated coconut cake recipe ensures tender, flavorful results, whether you make an old fashioned coconut loaf or a lemon and coconut loaf variation.
Can I make this easy coconut cake without coconut milk?
Yes, you can make easy coconut loaf without coconut milk by substituting regular milk or a milk alternative. This version still produces a soft coconut loaf bread while keeping the classic coconut flavor intact.
What type of coconut works best for a coconut loaf cake Nigella-style?
Desiccated coconut is ideal for any coconut loaf cake Nigella or Mary Berry-inspired recipe. It blends well into the batter, giving a consistent texture and authentic coconut flavor in your easy coconut cake.
Can I turn this coconut loaf into a bread-like dessert?
Yes, by slightly reducing sugar and butter, you can create a denser, old fashioned coconut loaf that works as coconut loaf bread. This technique works well for both easy coconut loaf with coconut milk or easy coconut loaf without coconut milk.
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Easy Coconut Loaf is a versatile and delicious recipe that combines the best elements of Mary Berry coconut loaf cake recipes and Nigella-inspired coconut loaf cake techniques. Whether you choose an old fashioned coconut loaf, a zesty lemon and coconut loaf, or a moist coconut loaf cake made as easy coconut loaf with coconut milk or easy coconut loaf without coconut milk, this recipe delivers tender, flavorful results every time. Perfect for coconut loaf bread at breakfast, tea, or dessert, it’s simple, customizable, and loved by the whole family.
Print
asy Coconut Loaf
- Total Time: 40–45 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A soft and moist coconut loaf perfect for tea time, brunch, or a simple dessert. This easy-to-make loaf combines desiccated coconut with a hint of vanilla, and can be enhanced with lemon zest or coconut milk for extra flavor. Ideal for both beginners and seasoned bakers.
Ingredients
🛒 Ingredients (for one standard loaf, ~9×5-inch pan):
For the Cake:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
¾ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
½ cup coconut milk (or regular milk)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup desiccated coconut
Optional: zest of 1 lemon for a fresh twist
For the Topping (optional):
2–3 tbsp desiccated coconut
2 tbsp powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
📝 Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare Oven & Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and desiccated coconut.
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large bowl, cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with coconut milk. Mix until just combined — do not overmix.
Step 5: Bake the Loaf
Pour batter into prepared pan. Smooth the top and sprinkle optional desiccated coconut. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar if desired. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Moist Loaf: Using coconut milk or yogurt keeps the loaf soft and tender.
- Flavor Variation: Add lemon zest or a teaspoon of almond extract for extra aroma.
- Make Ahead: The loaf keeps well in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Can also be frozen for up to 1 month.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Category: Dessert / Loaf Cake
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: International / Home Baking