Tender Southern Biscuits with the Sweet Flavor of Toasted Coconut
Light, fluffy, and kissed with the tropical flavor of toasted coconut, Coconut Biscuits offer a delicious twist on the traditional Southern biscuit. The toasted coconut adds a subtle sweetness and delicate texture, making these biscuits equally at home on the breakfast table or served alongside a holiday meal. They’re simple to prepare and bake quickly, making them a wonderful addition to any family gathering.
Featured in The Black Family Reunion Cookbook, this recipe highlights the creativity found in African American home cooking, where familiar pantry ingredients are transformed into comforting dishes that bring family and friends together around the table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup flake coconut, toasted
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup Crisco Shortening
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
Makes: 12 to 16 biscuits
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F and grease a baking sheet.
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour, toasted coconut, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut the Crisco shortening into the dry ingredients using a pastry blender (or two knives) until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a separate bowl, stir together the milk and vanilla.
- Add the milk mixture to the dry ingredients and mix gently with a fork until the dough is just moistened and begins to come together.
- Drop tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the biscuits are lightly golden.
- Serve warm with butter, fruit preserves, or honey.
Pro Tips & Suggestions
- Toast the coconut before mixing to deepen its flavor and add a rich, nutty aroma.
- Mix the dough gently to keep the biscuits soft and tender.
- Enjoy these biscuits for breakfast with butter and jam or alongside coffee or tea.
- Serve with savory dishes like baked ham, roasted chicken, or Southern-style seafood for a delicious sweet-and-savory pairing.
- For extra richness, brush the tops with melted butter immediately after baking.
About the Creator
The National Council of Negro Women, Inc. (NCNW) compiled The Black Family Reunion Cookbook to preserve African American culinary traditions, treasured family recipes, and the stories that connect generations. Through recipes and food memories contributed by families across the United States, the cookbook celebrates the importance of gathering around the table while honoring Black history, culture, and heritage.
The Black Family Reunion Cookbook | National Council of Negro Women
Where to Find This Recipe
This recipe is adapted from The Black Family Reunion Cookbook: Recipes & Food Memories by the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. The cookbook is a remarkable collection of heritage recipes, family traditions, and personal stories celebrating African American cooking, Southern hospitality, and the joy of bringing loved ones together through food.
