Jamaican Banana Bread with Coconut, Rum & Citrus Glaze

 

When you think of banana bread, you probably picture a cozy, familiar loaf — sweet, moist, and comforting. But this Jamaican Banana Bread takes things to another level with a tropical twist. Infused with the nutty chew of flaked coconut, the deep warmth of dark rum (or apple cider), and finished with a bright citrus glaze, this loaf is a perfect balance of cozy and exotic. Each bite delivers the nostalgic flavor of classic banana bread with a Caribbean flair that feels indulgent yet effortless.

Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this banana bread is bound to be a crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients & Their Roles

For the Banana Bread

3 ripe bananas (mashed) – The natural sweetness and moisture base of the loaf. The riper, the better for depth of flavor.

½ cup unsalted butter (melted) – Adds richness and creates that tender, moist crumb.

¾ cup brown sugar – Provides sweetness and a hint of molasses depth that pairs beautifully with bananas.

2 large eggs – Bind the ingredients together and help the bread rise.

2 cups all-purpose flour – The structure of the bread.

1 tsp baking soda – Ensures the bread rises light and fluffy.

½ tsp salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.

1 tsp ground cinnamon – Warm spice that complements bananas and coconut.

½ cup flaked coconut (unsweetened or sweetened) – Adds texture and tropical sweetness.

2 Tbsp dark rum (or apple cider) – Deepens flavor with a subtle kick of warmth (apple cider for a non-alcoholic option).

1 tsp vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavor with smooth sweetness.

For the Citrus Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar – Creates the base of the glaze.

2–3 Tbsp fresh orange or lime juice – Adds brightness and a tropical citrus punch.

Zest of 1 orange or lime – Intensifies the fresh citrus aroma and flavor.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a standard loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mash Bananas

In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth but with some small chunks for texture.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients

Stir in the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, rum (or cider), and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

5. Bring It All Together

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined — do not overmix, as this can make the bread dense.

6. Add Coconut

Fold in the flaked coconut, reserving a tablespoon to sprinkle on top before baking for a golden, toasty finish.

7. Bake the Loaf

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Cool & Glaze

Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. While slightly warm, whisk together the powdered sugar, citrus juice, and zest. Drizzle generously over the cooled loaf.

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Why This Recipe is Loved

Moist & Tender: Ripe bananas and butter create an irresistibly soft crumb.

Tropical Twist: Coconut and rum transform it into a Jamaican-inspired delight.

Fresh Finish: The citrus glaze cuts through the richness for a perfectly balanced bite.

Versatile Treat: Perfect with morning coffee, an afternoon snack, or dressed up as dessert.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Jamaican Banana Bread

Use overripe bananas with plenty of brown spots — they deliver the sweetest, deepest flavor.

Toast the coconut flakes lightly before folding them into the batter for extra nuttiness.

For extra indulgence, add ½ cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips.

Always cool completely before glazing, or the glaze will melt into the loaf.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve warm slices with a pat of butter or cream cheese spread.

Pair with a cup of strong coffee or black tea for breakfast.

For dessert, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Add a sprinkle of toasted coconut on top for presentation.

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Conclusion

This Jamaican Banana Bread with Coconut, Rum & Citrus Glaze is more than just another banana bread recipe — it’s a tropical escape baked into a loaf. With its moist texture, deep flavor, and refreshing glaze, it’s a recipe you’ll want

 to make again and again. Best of all, it’s simple, uses everyday ingredients, and delivers bakery-quality results right at home.