Jamaican Banana Bread

This Jamaican Banana Bread features ripe bananas, spiced rum, lime, coconut, and pecans for a tropical twist on a classic quick bread. Moist and flavorful, it’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. The loaf is topped with a coconut-pecan glaze that adds extra sweetness and crunch, making it a crowd-pleasing recipe for gatherings or casual treats.

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread:

• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese (regular or ⅓ less fat Neufchatel)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup mashed overripe banana (about 2 bananas)
• ½ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons spiced rum (like Captain Morgan)
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• ½ lime, juiced
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¼ cup finely chopped pecans
• ¼ cup sweetened flaked coconut

For the Glaze:

• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ½ lime, juiced
• 2 teaspoons spiced rum
• 2 tablespoons chopped pecans
• 2 tablespoons sweetened flaked coconut

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Instructions

Make the Banana Bread

1. Preheat oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously coat a 9 × 5-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Cream butter and cheese: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened butter and cream cheese in a large bowl until fluffy.
3. Add sugar and egg: Mix in the granulated sugar until well combined, then add the egg and beat until smooth.
4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Prepare banana mixture: In another bowl, combine mashed bananas, milk, spiced rum, lime zest, lime juice, and vanilla extract.
6. Mix the batter: Using a wooden spoon, alternately fold in the flour mixture and banana mixture into the creamed butter mixture in increments, until fully incorporated.
7. Add nuts and coconut: Fold in ¼ cup chopped pecans and ¼ cup coconut. Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan.
8. Bake: Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the loaf to cool for 5–10 minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.

Make the Coconut Pecan Glaze

1. Heat glaze ingredients: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, butter, lime juice, and rum. Stir constantly and bring to a low boil until smooth, about 1 minute.
2. Add nuts and coconut: Remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons pecans and 2 tablespoons coconut.
3. Glaze the bread: Let glaze cool for 2 minutes, then spoon over the warm banana bread. The glaze will set as the loaf cools.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tropical flavor: Spiced rum, lime, and coconut give this banana bread a Caribbean twist.
• Moist and tender: Cream cheese and butter create a soft, rich texture.
• Nutty crunch: Pecans add a satisfying crunch to each slice.
• Versatile dessert or snack: Works for breakfast, tea time, or as a sweet treat.

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Tips

• Use overripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and moisture.
• Allow the loaf to cool slightly before glazing to prevent the topping from melting too much.
• Lightly grease the loaf pan to make removal easier.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Nut alternatives: Swap pecans with walnuts or almonds.
• Alcohol-free: Omit rum and replace with an equal amount of milk or orange juice.
• Add-ins: Mix in mini chocolate chips or dried pineapple for extra flavor.
• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

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FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Q: Can I freeze this banana bread?
A: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, but use two loaf pans and adjust baking time slightly, checking with a toothpick.

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Serving

• Slice and serve with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.
• Pairs well with a light cream cheese spread or whipped butter.

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Suggestions

• Garnish with extra toasted coconut and pecans for a beautiful presentation.
• Make mini loaves for gifting or party platters.
• Drizzle with a little extra spiced rum glaze for a festive touch.