Coconut candy is a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of coconut with a chewy texture.
It’s a popular snack in many cultures and is surprisingly easy to make at home. Here’s a simple recipe to create your own coconut candy:
Ingredients
- 2 cups freshly grated coconut (or desiccated coconut)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Food coloring (optional)
- Cooking oil or butter (for greasing)
Instructions
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Prepare the Ingredients
If you’re using fresh coconut, grate it finely. If you’re using desiccated coconut, no preparation is required.
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Grease a baking tray or a flat surface with cooking oil or butter. This will prevent the candy from sticking.
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Mix Sugar and Water
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Place the saucepan over medium heat.
Stir the mixture until the sugar completely dissolves.
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Cook the Mixture
Continue cooking the sugar-water mixture without stirring. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature. You’re aiming for the “hard ball” stage, which is around 250°F (120°C).
If you don’t have a candy thermometer, you can do a water test: Drop a small amount of the mixture into a bowl of cold water. It should form a hard ball that can be shaped with your fingers.
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Add Coconut and Flavor
Once the sugar syrup reaches the desired temperature, lower the heat to prevent burning.
Add the grated coconut and salt to the syrup. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens and the coconut absorbs the syrup. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
If you’re using vanilla extract or food coloring, add them at this stage and mix well.
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Shape and Cool
Once the coconut mixture is thick and well combined, quickly pour it onto the greased tray or surface.
Use a spatula to flatten and shape the candy. You can make it as thick or thin as you prefer.
Allow the candy to cool and set at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes.
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Cut and Serve
Once the coconut candy has cooled and solidified, use a sharp knife to cut it into desired shapes. Traditional shapes are squares or rectangles.
Your homemade coconut candy is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it as a delicious snack or sweet treat.
Tips
- Be cautious when working with hot sugar syrup to avoid burns.
- You can experiment with flavors by adding a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Store the coconut candy in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Making coconut candy at home is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy this classic treat anytime you want. It’s a delightful option for satisfying your sweet cravings or sharing with friends and family.