Small-Batch Blueberry Coconut Muffins – Tropical Flavor in Every Bite

Moist, fluffy, and bursting with blueberries, these small-batch blueberry coconut muffins bring a tropical twist to your breakfast or snack. Easy to make in just 30 minutes!

Small-Batch Blueberry Coconut Muffins – Tropical Flavor in Every Bite

Imagine biting into a warm, golden muffin—juicy blueberries bursting with sweetness, balanced by the subtle crunch of toasted coconut. These Small-Batch Blueberry Coconut Muffins are the perfect balance of cozy comfort and tropical flair. Not only are they moist, tender, and bakery-worthy, but the recipe makes just enough for a small household—no mountain of leftovers, just six perfectly portioned muffins.

Whether you’re treating yourself on a quiet morning or sharing a little sunshine with someone you love, these muffins bring big flavor without a lot of fuss. With simple pantry staples, fresh blueberries, and a touch of coconut, you’ll have a batch ready in under 30 minutes.

What Ingredients Do I Need?

• Egg
• Milk (2% or your choice)
• Canola oil (or other neutral oil)
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Sugar
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Fresh blueberries (plus extra for topping)
• Unsweetened flake coconut (plus extra for topping)

Substitutions & Variations

Want to make these muffins your own? Here are some easy swaps:

• Milk: Use whole milk, almond milk, or oat milk.

• Oil: Swap canola oil with melted coconut oil for extra tropical flavor.

• Blueberries: Frozen blueberries work too—just don’t thaw them first.

• Coconut: Use sweetened coconut flakes if you prefer a sweeter muffin.

• Batch size: Double the recipe for 12 muffins—baking time stays the same.

Kitchen Tips & Notes

• Don’t overmix: Stir until ingredients are just combined to keep muffins tender.

• Topping tip: A sprinkle of extra blueberries and coconut gives a pretty, bakery-style finish.

• Storage: Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer.

• Serving idea: Enjoy warm with a pat of butter, or pair with hot tea for a cozy breakfast.

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    RECIPE IS DOWN BELOW👇     

Tropical Strawberry Coconut Muffins – Fresh, Fruity & Perfectly Fluffy

Bring a taste of the tropics to your kitchen with these Tropical Strawberry Coconut Muffins! Bursting with juicy strawberries, nutty coconut, and bakery-perfect fluffiness, they’re the ultimate fruity treat for breakfast or snacking.

 

Tropical Strawberry Coconut Muffins – Fresh, Fruity & Perfectly Fluffy

There’s something magical about baking with strawberries and coconut—the way the berries release their sweet juiciness as they bake, while the coconut turns toasty and fragrant, filling the kitchen with a tropical aroma that feels like sunshine in muffin form. These Tropical Strawberry Coconut Muffins – Fresh, Fruity & Perfectly Fluffy are the kind of treat that instantly brightens your morning, whether you’re savoring one with a hot cup of tea or packing them for an afternoon snack.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. Just a handful of pantry staples, a splash of creamy coconut milk, and a pile of fresh strawberries come together to create muffins that are light, tender, and full of flavor. The coconut adds a hint of natural sweetness and a little chew, perfectly complementing the juicy bursts of berry. Sprinkle a few extra strawberries and flakes of coconut on top before baking, and you’ll get that irresistible bakery-style look and taste—without leaving home.

Perfect for a weekend bake, a spring brunch, or simply when you need a little tropical escape, these muffins are a reminder that sometimes the simplest flavors bring the most joy.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients I Need?

You don’t need anything fancy to whip up these muffins—just simple ingredients you may already have on hand:

• Egg – binds everything together and helps with structure.

• Full-fat coconut milk – adds richness and a subtle tropical flavor.

• Canola oil – keeps the muffins moist and tender.

• Vanilla extract – a touch of warmth and sweetness.

• All-purpose flour – the base of your muffin batter.

• Sugar – just enough to balance the tartness of the strawberries.

• Baking powder – gives your muffins their fluffy rise.

• Salt – enhances the flavors.

• Fresh strawberries – juicy, sweet, and bursting with flavor.

• Unsweetened flake coconut – adds texture and toasty, tropical notes.  (I use this one)

What Equipment I Need to Bake the Perfect Muffins

• Mixing bowls – one large for the wet ingredients and one medium for the dry.

• Whisk & spatula – for combining ingredients without overmixing.

• Muffin tin (6-well, standard size) – the perfect fit for this small-batch recipe.

• Non-stick cooking spray (or muffin liners) – to prevent sticking.

• Measuring cups & spoons – accuracy is key in baking.

• Cooling rack – to let the muffins rest and set properly after baking.

Substitutions

Sometimes you don't have an ingredient.  Below are some substitutes to help you out.

• Coconut milk → You can use regular whole milk or almond milk if you don’t have coconut milk on hand.

• Canola oil → Swap with melted coconut oil, vegetable oil, or even light olive oil.

• All-purpose flour → A 1:1 gluten-free baking blend can be used for a gluten-free version.

• Sugar → Replace with coconut sugar or light brown sugar.  You may also use a sugar substitute if you prefer.

Variations

Want to mix it up a bit. Try one of these variations.

• Chocolate Twist – Add ½ cup white chocolate or dark chocolate chips for extra indulgence.

• Nutty Crunch – Stir in ¼ cup chopped pecans or macadamia nuts for texture.

• Citrus Boost – Add 1 teaspoon of fresh lime or orange zest to the batter for a zingy tropical note.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Don’t overmix the batter. Stir gently until just combined—this keeps the muffins soft and fluffy.

• Use ripe strawberries. The sweeter and juicier the berries, the better the flavor.

• Reserve some toppings. Sprinkling a few extra strawberries and coconut flakes on top before baking makes them look bakery-worthy.

• Watch the bake time. All ovens are different, so check at the 18-minute mark. They’re done when a toothpick comes out clean.

• Storage tip: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days.

🌺 Set the Mood

These muffins aren’t just a bake—they’re a little getaway. Imagine warm sunshine streaming through your kitchen window, a gentle breeze carrying the scent of toasted coconut, and a plate of these golden, fluffy muffins waiting on the table. Pair them with a cup of hot tea in the morning, or serve alongside iced lattes and fresh fruit for an easy weekend brunch spread.

They also make the sweetest addition to spring and summer gatherings—think baby showers, Mother’s Day breakfasts, or a cozy weekend picnic. The tropical flavors of strawberry and coconut feel like a vacation in every bite, turning even an ordinary Tuesday into a moment of joy.

So light a candle, put on your favorite relaxed playlist, and let these muffins transport you somewhere warm, bright, and delicious.

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💬 Let’s Chat!

Have you tried these muffins? What are your favorite flavors?  Leave a comment below or tag me on Instagram @SliceofSouthern—I’d love to see how yours turned out!

Coconut Dream Pancakes – Fluffy, Sweet & Island-Inspired!

Fluffy and sweet, these Coconut Dream Pancakes are made with coconut milk, shredded coconut, and a hint of vanilla—perfect for a tropical twist on your breakfast routine.

Coconut Dream Pancakes – Fluffy, Sweet & Island-Inspired!

There are some flavors that instantly transport you—and for me, coconut is one of them.  My husband and I got married in at sunset on a beach in Hawaii.  The morning of the wedding I had my very first taste of coconut pancakes. We were excited, and glowing with wedding day anticipation, sitting at a breezy beachside café with ocean waves in the distance and a stack of warm, golden pancakes in front of us. One bite, and I was hooked. Sweet, creamy coconut nestled into each fluffy bite—it was pure island bliss. Ever since, coconut pancakes have held a special place in my heart; transporting me back to my wedding day. They're my little taste of paradise, no airplane travel required.

These Coconut Dream Pancakes are my homemade tribute to that magical moment. The batter is rich with coconut milk, coconut sugar, and shredded coconut for a flavor that’s comforting, nostalgic, and just the right amount of tropical. They’re soft, fluffy, and cook up beautifully golden—perfect for lazy Sunday mornings or special breakfasts with the family. Easy enough for a weekend treat, but special enough to make memories around the table.

Best of all, these pancakes are a total crowd-pleaser. Whether you're making breakfast for picky kids or treating yourself to something extra, this recipe will upgrade your everyday pancakes with bold, unforgettable flavor and just a touch of island escape.  Add syrup, fresh berries, or a pat of butter—and let every bite take you to your happy place.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients do I need?

Baking & Pantry

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Coconut sugar
• Kosher salt
• Vanilla extract
• Unsweetened shredded coconut

Dairy & Refrigerated

• Eggs
• Sour cream
• Coconut milk (canned or carton, full-fat or light)
• Butter (for cooking and serving)

Oils

• Canola oil (or any neutral oil)

Optional Toppings

• Maple syrup
• Fresh berries

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions

No need to make a special grocery run—here are some easy swaps if you’re missing an ingredient or want to tweak the recipe:

• Coconut Sugar → Brown sugar or granulated sugar work just as well.

• Canola Oil → Substitute with melted butter, coconut oil, or any neutral oil.

• Sour Cream → Try plain Greek yogurt or plain regular yogurt for a similar creamy tang.

• All-Purpose Flour → You can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend if needed.

• Unsweetened Shredded Coconut → Sweetened shredded coconut can be used, just reduce the sugar slightly if desired.

Variations

Looking to mix things up? These fun twists keep the coconut base but add new layers of flavor:

• Tropical Fruit Boost – Add diced pineapple, mango, or banana to the batter for bursts of natural sweetness.

• Nutty Crunch – Stir in chopped macadamia nuts or toasted almonds for added texture.

• Chocolate Coconut Delight – Mix in mini chocolate chips for a decadent take kids will adore.

• Coconut Lime Pancakes – Add a teaspoon of lime zest to the batter for a bright citrus twist.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Don’t overmix the batter – A few small lumps are totally fine. Overmixing can make your pancakes tough instead of fluffy.

• Test your skillet heat – Drop a small bit of batter into the pan—if it sizzles gently, it’s ready. Too hot and the pancakes will brown before cooking through.

• Keep them warm – Place cooked pancakes on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven while you finish the rest.

• Make-ahead tip – You can mix the dry ingredients the night before to save time in the morning.

• Freezer-friendly – Let pancakes cool, then freeze between layers of parchment in a zip-top bag. Reheat in a toaster or oven.

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Spring Fling: Berry Almond Smoothie Bowl

Start your day with a refreshing smoothie bowl filled with raspberries and almonds, and topped with blueberries, coconut, and more almonds.  The best way to start the day!

Berry Almond Smoothie Bowl

I've been obsessed with Acai and Smoothie (MGG calls them smoodie) bowls for about 6 months now.  I've always loved smoothies and have quite a few recipes on this blog, but there is something so naughty about putting it in a big bowl and adding all the toppings.  It's like a decadent treat that is so much tastier than oatmeal or cereal.   

This is a my Berry Almond Smoothie Bowl.  It's filled with my favorite berry, raspberries with an additional of some almonds for a protein burst and some cinnamon for a little warmth.  This is combined with a Greek yogurt, banana, and milk base to create the "bowl", then it's topped with sweet blueberries, coconut flakes, and a sprinkle of sliced almonds.  Heaven in a bowl!

Enjoy!

What Ingredients do I need?

• frozen raspberries
• 1 large banana
• Greek yogurt
• 2% milk
• sliced almonds
• ground cinnamon
• vanilla extract
• fresh blueberries
• unsweetened coconut flakes

Substitutions and Variations

• Top with chocolate chunks.

• Change up the toppings: strawberries or blackberries are great, or add some sliced bananas.

• Granola would make a great topping.

• Leave the almonds out of the smoothie and the topping for a nut free dish.

• Use almond milk or soy milk if you prefer.

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• Always use frozen raspberries to get the slushy thick smoothie.

• Frozen bananas will help, but are not necessary.

• If your smoothie comes out to thin you can add some ice cubes and blend that in to thicken it up, or add a little more yogurt.

• Make sure to use a powerful blender.

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Berry Almond Smoothie Bowl

serves 1

2/3 cup frozen raspberries

1/2 large banana
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup 2% milk
5 tablespoons sliced almonds, divided
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup blueberries
1 tablespoon unsweetened coconut flakes

Blend raspberries, banana, yogurt, milk, 3 tablespoons almonds, cinnamon, and vanilla in a blender until very smooth.

Pour the smoothie into a bowl and top with blueberries, the remaining 2 tablespoons almonds and coconut.

Mango Pina Colada Smoothie

Add of bit of tangy sweetness to your typical pina colada flavors of pineapple and coconut all in a healthy smoothie.  You will swear you are on a beach somewhere!

 

Mango Pina Colada Smoothie

A great way to start the day is with a healthy smoothie and what better than one that takes you away to a tropical beach.  With flavors of mango, pineapple, and coconut you'll be whisked away to a tripical island in the carribean.

Full of healthy ingredients like pineapple, mango, banana, and coconut milk this smoothie comes together in a few minutes and is full of vitamins and protein.  A satisfying breakfast that tastes like heaven is on the horizon.

Enjoy!

What Ingredients do I need?

• banana
• frozen mango
• frozen pineapple
• coconut milk
• greek yogurt

Substitutions and Variations

• Use coconut flavored greek yogurt for a stronger coconut flavor

• Use any non dairy milk - or use regular milk in place of the coconut milk

• Add a dash of vanilla for a boost of flavor

Kitchen Tips and Notes

• freeze your ripe bananas for making smoothies

• place the liquid in the bottom of the blender to assist in the mixing

• Using frozen fruit make your smoothies slushy and there is no need for ice.

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Mango Pina Colada Smoothie

serves 2

1 cup greek yogurt

1/2 banana
3/4 cup frozen pineapple
3/4 cup frozen mango
1/2 cup lite coconut milk

In a blender add coconut milk, yogurt, and the fruit.  Blend on high until blended.  If the mixture is too thick add an additional splash of coconut milk and blend again.  Serve immediately.