Coconut Rum Recipe

Toast coconut

Preheat a small dry skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded sweetened coconut and toast, stirring or shaking the pan frequently, until golden brown and fragrant, about 3–5 minutes. Transfer to a plate to cool.

Mix dry ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.

Combine wet ingredients

In a separate bowl or large measuring cup, whisk the egg lightly, then add the coconut milk, light rum, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and homogenous.

Make the batter

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon just until combined—do not overmix; a few small lumps are fine. Fold in half (about 1/4 cup) of the toasted shredded coconut if you want coconut throughout the pancakes. Let the batter rest for 5–10 minutes to hydrate the flour and thicken slightly.

Preheat skillet or griddle

Heat a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat until hot. Add 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter and swirl to coat the surface. Maintain a medium heat so pancakes cook through without burning.

Cook pancakes

For each pancake, pour about 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot surface, leaving space between pancakes. If using, scatter a few diced pineapple pieces onto each pancake and a sprinkle of reserved toasted coconut. Cook until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set, about 2–3 minutes. Flip gently and cook until the second side is golden and the pancake is cooked through, about 1–2 more minutes. Repeat, adding more butter to the skillet as needed.

Keep warm

If making multiple batches, keep finished pancakes warm on a baking sheet in a 200°F (95°C) oven while you cook the rest.

Plate and finish

Stack pancakes 2–3 high. Spoon maple syrup or coconut syrup over the warm pancakes, scatter remaining toasted coconut and diced pineapple on top, and add a small pat of butter if desired. Dust lightly with powdered sugar and serve with lime wedges for a bright squeeze of acid, if using.