Source Attribution
Original Cookbook Name: The Black Family Reunion Cookbook
Published By: Atria Books
Year of Publication: 1993
Page Number: 6
Author / Contributor: National Council of Negro Women
Heritage & Cultural Context
Coconut biscuits offer a lightly sweet, tender bite that blends Southern biscuit tradition with tropical flair—perhaps a nod to Caribbean influences that have mingled with Southern foodways over time. Recipes like this represent the creativity of home cooks who incorporated pantry staples into comforting treats, often stretching ingredients to feed a family. These biscuits may have graced the breakfast table, accompanied tea, or served as a treat during afternoon visits or church functions. Their inclusion in The Black Family Reunion Cookbook reflects the broad range of nostalgic, heartwarming recipes meant to preserve African American culinary memory.
Ingredients (As Written in the Book)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup sugar
- ½ cup shortening
- ½ cup flaked coconut
- ⅔ cup milk
Instructions
Original Instructions:
- Sift together dry ingredients.
- Cut in shortening until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in coconut.
- Add milk, stirring just until dough is moistened.
- Turn out on a floured surface. Knead lightly and roll to ½-inch thickness.
- Cut into rounds. Place on ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake at 425°F for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown.
Editor’s Note (Optional Modern Guidance):
For a crispier top, brush with milk or lightly sprinkle with sugar before baking. Best served warm with butter or jam.
Cultural or Historical Insight
Coconut made its way into Southern baking via trade routes and Caribbean influence, becoming popular in African American kitchens by the early 20th century. Coconut biscuits are a great example of adaptive home cooking, merging regional ingredients with tradition. Their presence in a reunion cookbook connects food not only with nourishment but with family memory, celebration, and creative expression.
Visual Reference
ALT Text: Scanned recipe page from The Black Family Reunion Cookbook showing ingredients and instructions for Coconut Biscuits.
