If you have a hankering for something both tropical and comforting, let me introduce you to a true gem: the Pineapple Coconut Bread with Simple Glaze Recipe. This luscious loaf combines sweet, juicy pineapple chunks and fragrant shredded coconut with a moist, tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth. Topped with a delicate glaze that adds just the right amount of sweetness and a sprinkle of toasted almonds or coconut flakes for crunch, this bread feels like sunshine on a plate. It’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack to brighten up any day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several small white bowls and plates arranged on a white marbled surface, each filled with different baking ingredients. Starting from the top left, there is one bowl with yellow shredded pineapple, below it a bowl with white shredded coconut, and next to it a bowl with light brown packed brown sugar. To the right at the top, there is another bowl filled with white powdered sugar, and below that a bowl with light tan sliced almonds. In the center bottom-left is a larger white bowl filled with white flour mixed with baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Two white eggs and a stick of salted butter wrapped in yellow paper are placed in front of the flour bowl. To the right of the eggs is a small bowl with amber vanilla and coconut extracts, next is a bowl with white sugar, and lastly, a measuring cup filled with milk sits on the bottom-right. All items are spaced neatly and clearly visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these ingredients is a breeze and each one plays a vital role in creating the flavors and textures that make this bread a standout. From the tender crumb to the tropical notes, everything comes together with simple, accessible ingredients.

2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the bread’s soft yet sturdy base.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise beautifully, giving it a light texture.
½ teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside the baking powder for perfect lift and crumb.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
½ cup brown sugar: Adds a deep, molasses-like sweetness and moisture.
½ cup sugar: Brings a clean, bright sweetness that complements the pineapple.
½ cup butter (at room temperature): Creates richness and tenderness in every bite.
2 eggs (at room temperature): Provide structure and moisture, uniting the ingredients perfectly.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic depth to the bread.
½ teaspoon coconut extract (optional but recommended): Intensifies the coconut flavor for a tropical flair.
1 cup crushed pineapple (well-drained): Infuses moisture and fruity sweetness.
¾ cup shredded coconut: Gives texture and that unmistakable tropical taste throughout.
¾ cup powdered sugar: For the simple glaze that ties everything together with a touch of sweetness.
2-3 tablespoons milk: Adjusts glaze consistency for a smooth drizzle.
3-4 tablespoons sliced toasted almonds or coconut flakes: A delightful crunchy topping that finishes the bread beautifully.

How to Make Pineapple Coconut Bread with Simple Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) to get it ready for baking. Grab a 9×5 inch loaf pan and butter or spray it generously. For an easy bread release later, line the bottom and two short sides with parchment paper, leaving the long sides greased but unlined. This little trick is a game-changer for clean loaf removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a small bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk these to combine well and set aside. Sifting creates a light texture by aerating the flour and evenly distributing the leavening agents.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium-high speed to beat the butter with both brown sugar and white sugar for about 2 minutes until fluffy and light. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter, contributing to a tender bread.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Extracts

Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each to make sure they’re fully mixed in. Then stir in the vanilla and coconut extracts to infuse that lovely aroma throughout the batter.

Step 5: Combine Dry Mixture and Fold in Pineapple and Coconut

Gently add the sifted flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until you see a few streaks of flour remaining. Overmixing can make the bread dense, so keep it light. Finally, fold in the well-drained crushed pineapple and shredded coconut carefully with a spatula, ensuring an even distribution without deflating the batter.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick or cake tester inserted comes out clean. After removing the bread from the oven, let it rest in the pan for about 10 minutes before loosening the edges with a knife and lifting it out using the parchment paper. Allow the bread to cool completely on a wire rack before moving on to glazing.

Step 7: Make and Apply the Simple Glaze

Whisk powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk in a small bowl until smooth. If the glaze feels too thick, add the remaining milk slowly until it reaches a consistency similar to thick honey that’s easy to drizzle. Use a spoon or fork to drizzle the glaze over the cooled loaf, letting it cascade down the sides naturally. To finish, sprinkle toasted sliced almonds or coconut flakes on top for that elegant, nutty crunch. Let the glaze set before slicing and serving.

How to Serve Pineapple Coconut Bread with Simple Glaze Recipe

A white bowl filled halfway with smooth, thick, pale cream batter with a glossy texture. Above the bowl, part of a metal whisk is lifting the batter, and the batter is slowly dripping down in a smooth, twisting stream back into the bowl. The scene is set on a white marbled surface with soft, natural lighting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted almonds or coconut flakes not only looks incredible but also adds a subtle crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft bread and silky glaze. Fresh pineapple chunks or a dusting of extra powdered sugar can also make the presentation pop for guests or family.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee or tropical tea, making it a fantastic choice for brunch or an afternoon snack. For a more indulgent treat, serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to turn it into a dessert sensation.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving this at a breakfast buffet or party, slice the bread, arrange it on a pretty platter, and add small bowls of extra glaze, fresh berries, or spreadable cream cheese nearby. For gifts, wrap individual slices in parchment and tie with twine for a charming homemade touch that friends will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store your Pineapple Coconut Bread with Simple Glaze Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh and moist for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week without losing any of its tropical charm.

Freezing

If you want to keep this delicious bread longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor preservation.

Reheating

To enjoy the bread warm, unwrap slices and gently heat them in a toaster oven or microwave for about 20 seconds. This brings back the gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture and gives a freshly baked feel to every bite.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just make sure to drain the fresh pineapple well to avoid adding too much moisture, which can affect the bread’s texture. Chopping it finely will help it distribute evenly throughout the batter.

Is coconut extract necessary?

It’s optional but highly recommended if your shredded coconut isn’t very flavorful. The extract boosts the coconut aroma and taste, making the bread even more irresistibly tropical.

Can I substitute butter with oil?

While butter adds a lovely richness and flavor, you could substitute with an equal amount of a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil. Keep in mind the texture may be slightly different, possibly moister but less fluffy.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the loaf. When it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging, your bread is perfectly baked and ready to come out of the oven.

What if my glaze is too runny?

If your glaze ends up thinner than desired, simply add a little more powdered sugar to thicken it back up. Achieving the perfect drizzle consistency may take a bit of back-and-forth with milk and sugar.

Final Thoughts

This Pineapple Coconut Bread with Simple Glaze Recipe is truly a delightful treat that brings a little tropical paradise right into your kitchen. Its moist texture, vibrant flavors, and easy glaze make it a fantastic go-to for sharing with friends and family. I promise, once you try this bread, it will quickly become one of your favorites to bake again and again. So why wait? Grab your ingredients and start baking your way to a taste of sunshine today!