Step 1: Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bread bakes evenly and rises beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan: Grease your 9x5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for added security.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, dark brown sugar, and white granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3-4 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Extracts: Add the large eggs to the creamed mixture, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and coconut extract until fully combined.
Step 5: Incorporate Sour Cream: Next, mix in the sour cream until the batter is smooth and creamy. The sour cream adds moisture and richness to the bread.
Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. This step ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Step 7: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense bread.
Step 8: Fold in Carrots and Pineapple: Gently fold in the shredded carrots and drained pineapple tidbits. This is where the magic happens; the colors and textures come together beautifully.
Step 9: Pour the Batter into the Loaf Pan: Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Give it a little shake to level the batter.
Step 10: Bake the Bread: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Keep an eye on it towards the end; it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 11: Cool the Bread: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 12: Prepare the Glaze: While the bread cools, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl until smooth to create a simple glaze. Drizzle this over the cooled bread for a touch of sweetness.
Step 13: Garnish and Serve: For an extra touch, sprinkle the top of the glazed bread with shredded carrots, chopped candied pineapple, and toasted coconut before slicing.
