Candied Papaya Coconut Bread
A rich, moist bread packed with candied papaya, dates, and nuts, offering sweet, fruity flavors perfect for breakfast, snacks, or as a dessert treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the margarine and sugar together until well combined.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Sift together the soda, salt, and flour, then add alternately with the buttermilk, mixing well.
- Stir in the chopped dates, candied papaya, and coarsely chopped nuts.
- Pour the batter into a greased and floured tube pan.
- Bake at 250°F (120°C) for approximately 2 hours, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan before removing to prevent it from falling apart.
- Alternatively, use a long narrow bread pan instead of the tube pan.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract can enhance the overall taste. Ensure the nuts are lightly toasted for extra crunch. This bread can be customized with different dried fruits as well.
Serving Suggestions
This delicious bread pairs beautifully with morning coffee or tea. For a delightful breakfast, serve it with a spread of cream cheese or butter. It also makes a lovely snack alongside fresh fruit or yogurt. Consider serving slices with a drizzle of honey for added sweetness. For a complete meal, enjoy with a side of Veggie Mix Up.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To freeze, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight and warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candied Papaya Coconut Bread contains roughly 2055 calories, with 38g protein, 258g carbohydrates, and 100g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (87% of the Daily Value), protein (75% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (69% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2701mg per serving (117% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh papaya instead of candied?
While fresh papaya can be used, it won't provide the same sweetness and texture as candied papaya. If you prefer fresh, consider adding a bit more sugar to the batter to compensate for the lack of sweetness and adjust the moisture content, as fresh fruit can add extra liquid.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help with the structure of the bread. The baking time may vary, so keep an eye on it as it bakes.
What can I use instead of eggs for a vegan version?
For a vegan version, you can replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let it sit until it thickens). This will help bind the ingredients while keeping the bread moist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).