Vegan Toasted Coconut Cornbread
Cornbread gets a serious upgrade here, with toasted shredded coconut folded right into the batter for a nutty, golden flavor that makes every bite feel a little special. The trick to making this completely plant-based is a flax gel — just ground flaxseed stirred into water and left to thicken — which stands in for eggs and binds everything together beautifully. A splash of apple cider vinegar in the plant-based milk creates a quick buttermilk effect, giving the crumb that tender, slightly tangy lift you'd expect from a classic square. Melted coconut oil keeps things moist and rich without a drop of butter or dairy in sight. Toasting the coconut in a dry skillet before it goes into the batter is a small step that pays off big, deepening the flavor and adding a subtle chew throughout. The whole pan bakes up golden in under 25 minutes and cuts into 9 generous squares — perfect for a weeknight side, a potluck, or honestly just snacking straight from the pan.
About FigFig is a food discovery app that helps you find foods and recipes that fit your dietary needs. Whether you have food allergies, intolerances, or follow a specific diet, Fig makes it easy to eat with confidence.
Learn more →Ingredients
9 servings
For the cornbread
- ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1 tbsp ground flaxseed
- 3 tbsp water
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup organic cane sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup plant-based milk
- ⅓ cup coconut oil, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C). Lightly grease an 8x8-inch baking pan with coconut oil or line it with parchment paper.
- 2
Spread the shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat and cook, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. Watch closely, as the coconut can brown quickly. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
Want the full recipe?
Create a Fig account for step-by-step instructions, access to our full recipe library, and more!