Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Set your baking sheet aside—greasing it well is recommended over lining with parchment paper for this rustic treat.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
Add cold butter to the flour mixture. Use your fingertips, a pastry cutter, or a food processor to work it in until it resembles coarse sand.
Tip: Avoid using your palms to prevent warming the butter.
Stir in the brown sugar, grated coconut, raisins, and mixed fruit (if using).
Add coconut milk and essence to the dry mixture and mix until fully combined.
The dough should be soft and slightly sticky—able to fall off a spoon without sticking to your hands. If it's too dry, add more coconut milk, 1 tbsp at a time, until it comes together.
Use a spoon to drop small mounds of batter onto your greased baking sheet. Optional: top each with a maraschino cherry.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the bottoms are golden brown.
Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before enjoying.