Mmm, who can resist the sweet, tropical allure of coconut? Whether you’re craving a light, fluffy cake or a rich, creamy pie, our roundup of 18 Delicious Coconut Dessert Recipes Easy has something to satisfy every sweet tooth. Perfect for home cooks looking to add a little island flair to their baking, these recipes promise to be as simple as they are scrumptious. Let’s dive in!
Coconut Macaroons with Chocolate Drizzle
Today, as the soft hum of the afternoon settles in, I find myself drawn to the simplicity and sweetness of coconut macaroons, each bite a tender escape. The chocolate drizzle adds a layer of indulgence, making them irresistible.
Ingredients
- For the macaroons:
- 3 cups sweetened shredded coconut
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the chocolate drizzle:
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded coconut, granulated sugar, flour, and salt, mixing well to ensure even distribution.
- Add the egg whites and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients, stirring until the mixture is cohesive and slightly sticky.
- Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the macaroons are golden brown around the edges. Tip: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even browning.
- While the macaroons cool, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil together in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Tip: Ensure the bowl is dry to prevent the chocolate from seizing.
- Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cooled macaroons using a spoon or a piping bag for more precision. Tip: Let the chocolate set at room temperature for a cleaner finish.
Now, these coconut macaroons with chocolate drizzle offer a delightful contrast between the crispy exterior and the chewy, moist center. Serve them alongside a cup of strong coffee or as a sweet finish to a summer picnic, letting the flavors speak for themselves.
Pina Colada Cheesecake
Beneath the soft glow of the kitchen light, the idea of blending the tropical allure of a pina colada with the creamy decadence of cheesecake feels like a whispered secret between friends. It’s a dessert that promises a mini vacation with every bite, a sweet escape to sunnier shores.
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- For the filling:
- 24 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
- 1/4 cup coconut cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For the topping:
- 1/2 cup whipped cream
- 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes
- Maraschino cherries for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F. Lightly grease a 9-inch springform pan.
- In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Tip: Use the bottom of a measuring cup to press the crust evenly.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the heavy cream, crushed pineapple, coconut cream, and vanilla extract until the mixture is uniform. Tip: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature to avoid lumps.
- Pour the filling over the crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the center is just set. Tip: The cheesecake is done when the edges are set but the center slightly jiggles.
- Turn off the oven and leave the cheesecake inside with the door slightly ajar for 1 hour to cool gradually.
- Refrigerate the cheesecake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, before serving.
- Before serving, top with whipped cream, toasted coconut flakes, and a maraschino cherry for a festive touch.
Kindly, the first slice reveals a velvety texture that melts seamlessly with the crunch of toasted coconut, while the pineapple whispers its presence without overpowering. Serve it chilled, perhaps with a drizzle of dark rum for an adults-only version, and watch as it becomes the centerpiece of any gathering.
Coconut Cream Pie
Zestfully dreaming of desserts that whisper of tropical breezes and lazy afternoons, this coconut cream pie emerges as a tender homage to simplicity and flavor. Its velvety filling and flaky crust invite a moment of pause, a sweet interlude in the rush of everyday life.
Ingredients
– For the crust:
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
– 3-4 tbsp ice water
– For the filling:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
– For the topping:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp powdered sugar
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt for the crust. Add the butter and use your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Tip: Avoid overworking the dough to keep the crust tender.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Trim and crimp the edges, then prick the bottom with a fork.
5. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment and bake for another 10 minutes until golden. Let cool.
6. For the filling, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream.
7. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and boils. Boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
8. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks. Gradually whisk in 1/2 cup of the hot milk mixture to temper the yolks, then whisk the yolk mixture back into the saucepan.
9. Return to heat and cook for 2 more minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and shredded coconut. Tip: For a smoother filling, strain through a fine-mesh sieve.
10. Pour the filling into the cooled crust and press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Chill for at least 4 hours.
11. For the topping, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form. Spread over the chilled pie and sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes.
The pie’s filling is luxuriously smooth, with the toasted coconut adding a delightful crunch against the pillowy whipped cream. Serve it chilled, with a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of lime zest for an unexpected twist.
Coconut Tres Leches Cake
Under the soft glow of the kitchen light, the Coconut Tres Leches Cake emerges as a tender embrace of flavors, a dessert that whispers of tropical breezes and sweet memories. It’s a cake that demands patience and love, each step a meditation in creating something truly special.
Ingredients
- For the cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 5 large eggs
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- For the tres leches mixture:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 cup coconut milk
- For the topping:
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 3 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup toasted coconut flakes
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla.
- Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, and coconut milk.
- Once the cake is cool, pierce it all over with a fork. Slowly pour the tres leches mixture over the cake, allowing it to absorb.
- Cover and refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to let the flavors meld.
- Before serving, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread over the cake and sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes.
Best enjoyed chilled, the Coconut Tres Leches Cake is a symphony of textures—from the airy sponge to the creamy topping, each bite is a delight. Serve it with a drizzle of caramel or fresh mango slices for an extra touch of indulgence.
Coconut Ice Cream with Toasted Coconut Flakes
Calmly, as the summer heat embraces us, there’s nothing quite like the soothing embrace of homemade coconut ice cream, its creamy texture and toasted coconut flakes offering a whisper of tropical escape.
Ingredients
- For the ice cream base:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
- For the toasted coconut flakes:
- 1/2 cup sweetened coconut flakes
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and salt. Stir gently until the sugar completely dissolves, about 5 minutes. Do not let it boil.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and unsweetened coconut milk until well combined. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes, until it reaches a soft-serve consistency.
- While the ice cream churns, preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the sweetened coconut flakes evenly on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until golden brown. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Once the ice cream is churned, fold in half of the toasted coconut flakes. Transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container, sprinkle the remaining toasted coconut on top, and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Perfectly creamy with a delightful crunch from the toasted coconut, this ice cream is a dream served in a chilled bowl or atop a warm slice of pineapple upside-down cake for a contrast of temperatures and textures.
Coconut Banana Bread
Just imagine the warmth of your kitchen filling with the sweet, comforting aromas of coconut and banana as you prepare this loaf. It’s a simple pleasure, one that reminds us of slow mornings and the joy of baking something from the heart.
Ingredients
- For the batter:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Mix in the mashed bananas and coconut milk until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Tip: Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
- Fold in the shredded coconut gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Tip: If the top browns too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Tip: For best flavor, wrap the cooled bread in plastic wrap and let it sit overnight before slicing.
Moist and tender, this coconut banana bread is a delightful twist on the classic, with the shredded coconut adding a subtle chewiness. Serve it toasted with a smear of butter or enjoy it as is, with a cup of tea for a truly comforting treat.
Coconut Lime Bars
Amidst the quiet hum of the kitchen, the fusion of coconut and lime in these bars brings a tropical escape to the mundane, a sweet yet tangy embrace that feels like a gentle breeze on a warm summer day.
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- For the filling:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup lime juice (about 4 limes)
- 1 tbsp lime zest
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until well combined. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. This pre-baking ensures a crisp base that won’t sog under the filling.
- While the crust cools, whisk together the eggs, sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, and lime zest in a large bowl until smooth. Stir in the shredded coconut for a subtle texture.
- Pour the filling over the slightly cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are set but the center still has a slight jiggle. Overbaking can lead to a tough texture, so keep an eye on it.
- Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set properly. Chilling is key for clean slices.
- Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut into squares. For neat edges, wipe the knife clean between cuts.
The bars emerge with a buttery crust that crumbles just so, giving way to a creamy, citrus-kissed filling dotted with coconut. Serve them chilled, perhaps with a dusting of toasted coconut or a lime wedge on the side, to elevate their sunny disposition.
Coconut Chocolate Truffles
Evenings like these call for something sweet, something that feels like a quiet celebration. Coconut chocolate truffles, with their rich, velvety centers and delicate coconut coating, are just the thing to savor slowly, one blissful bite at a time.
Ingredients
- For the truffle filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature
- For the coating:
- 1 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer, about 3-4 minutes. Watch closely to avoid boiling.
- Place the chopped chocolate in a medium bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let sit for 1 minute to soften.
- Gently stir the chocolate and cream together with a rubber spatula until smooth and fully combined. Tip: If any chocolate pieces remain unmelted, place the bowl over a pot of simmering water to melt completely.
- Add the butter to the chocolate mixture, stirring until incorporated and the mixture is glossy.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the chocolate to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until firm enough to scoop.
- Using a small cookie scoop or a teaspoon, portion the chilled chocolate mixture and roll into 1-inch balls. Tip: For easier handling, lightly oil your hands.
- Roll each truffle in the shredded coconut until fully coated. Tip: For extra texture, toast the coconut lightly before coating.
- Arrange the coated truffles on a parchment-lined tray and chill for another 30 minutes to set.
The truffles emerge with a contrast of textures—the crisp coconut shell giving way to the smooth, molten chocolate within. Serve them nestled in mini cupcake liners for a touch of elegance, or simply pile them high on a plate for a more rustic appeal.
Coconut Flan
Lately, I’ve found myself drawn to the creamy, dreamy world of desserts that whisper of tropical breezes and sun-kissed shores, and nothing quite captures that essence like a silky coconut flan. It’s a dish that marries the richness of traditional custard with the light, fragrant touch of coconut, creating a dessert that’s both comforting and exotic.
Ingredients
- For the caramel:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- For the flan:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a large baking dish filled halfway with water in the oven to create a water bath.
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup water for the caramel. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and let it boil until it turns a deep amber color, about 10 minutes. Tip: Swirl the pan occasionally for even coloring without stirring.
- Immediately pour the caramel into a 9-inch round baking dish, tilting to coat the bottom evenly. Set aside to harden.
- In a blender, combine 4 large eggs, 1 can sweetened condensed milk, 1 can coconut milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/2 cup whole milk. Blend until smooth. Tip: Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to ensure the flan is perfectly smooth.
- Pour the egg mixture over the hardened caramel in the baking dish.
- Place the baking dish into the preheated water bath in the oven. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the flan is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Tip: To test doneness, insert a knife near the center; it should come out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- To serve, run a knife around the edges of the dish, place a serving plate on top, and invert to release the flan with the caramel sauce on top.
Unbelievably smooth and rich, this coconut flan is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients transformed. The caramel adds a bittersweet contrast to the creamy custard, while the coconut lends a subtle, fragrant sweetness. Serve it chilled, with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for an extra touch of texture and flavor.
Coconut Rice Pudding
Remembering the gentle hum of the kitchen, the way the light filters through the curtains in the late afternoon, there’s something deeply comforting about preparing a dish that feels like a hug. Coconut rice pudding, with its creamy texture and subtle sweetness, is just that—a warm embrace in a bowl.
Ingredients
- For the pudding:
- 1 cup white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Rinse the white rice under cold water until the water runs clear, to remove excess starch.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Stir in the coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Cook on low heat, stirring frequently, for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the pudding sit for 5 minutes to thicken slightly before serving.
Kindly note, the pudding will continue to thicken as it cools. For an extra touch of indulgence, serve it warm with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes on top. The result is a delightfully creamy dessert that balances the richness of coconut milk with the comforting simplicity of rice.
Coconut Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Under the soft glow of the kitchen light, there’s something deeply comforting about the process of baking, especially when it involves the tropical duo of coconut and pineapple. This cake, with its caramelized fruit topping and moist, fluffy base, is a nod to simpler times and sunnier days.
Ingredients
- For the topping:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices, drained
- Maraschino cherries, for decoration
- For the cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and set aside.
- Melt 1/2 cup butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar until dissolved, then pour into the prepared cake pan, spreading evenly.
- Arrange pineapple slices over the sugar mixture. Place a cherry in the center of each slice and in the gaps between slices.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together 1/2 cup butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla.
- Alternately add the flour mixture and coconut milk to the creamed mixture, beginning and ending with flour. Fold in shredded coconut.
- Pour batter over the pineapple layer in the pan, spreading evenly.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a serving plate. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Every bite of this cake offers a delightful contrast between the sticky, sweet pineapple topping and the tender, coconut-infused crumb. For an extra touch of elegance, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes.
Coconut Almond Brittle
Yesterday, as the golden light of the afternoon spilled into my kitchen, I found myself drawn to the simple pleasure of making something sweet and crunchy. The thought of coconut almond brittle, with its perfect balance of nutty and sweet, seemed like just the thing to satisfy that craving.
Ingredients
- For the brittle:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup roasted almonds, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
Instructions
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with butter to prevent sticking.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup light corn syrup, and 1/4 cup water. Stir until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and bring to a boil.
- Once the mixture reaches 300°F on a candy thermometer (hard crack stage), remove from heat immediately to prevent burning.
- Quickly stir in 1 cup roasted almonds, 1/2 cup shredded coconut, 2 tbsp unsalted butter, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until well combined.
- Add 1/2 tsp baking soda and stir vigorously; the mixture will foam up slightly, which is normal.
- Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it thinly and evenly with a spatula. Let it cool completely at room temperature, about 1 hour.
- Once cooled, break the brittle into pieces by hand or with a knife. Store in an airtight container to maintain crispness.
Delightfully crisp and bursting with the rich flavors of coconut and almond, this brittle is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients. Serve it alongside a cup of strong coffee for a truly indulgent experience, or wrap pieces in parchment paper as a sweet gift for friends.
Coconut Vanilla Panna Cotta
Gently, as the summer breeze carries the scent of blooming flowers, let us embark on the creation of a dessert that whispers of tropical shores and vanilla-scented dreams. This Coconut Vanilla Panna Cotta is a silky, dreamy escape into sweetness, perfect for those moments when you crave something light yet indulgent.
Ingredients
- For the Panna Cotta:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
- 2 1/4 tsp unflavored gelatin
- 3 tbsp cold water
Instructions
- In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over the cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine the heavy cream, coconut milk, sugar, and vanilla bean seeds. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat. Add the bloomed gelatin to the warm cream mixture, stirring until completely dissolved.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a large measuring cup to ensure a smooth texture.
- Divide the mixture evenly among 4 ramekins or glasses. Cover lightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until set, at least 4 hours or overnight.
Momentarily, as you spoon into the creamy, velvety panna cotta, you’ll notice the delicate balance of coconut and vanilla, a dance of flavors that’s both refreshing and comforting. Serve it with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for an extra touch of elegance.
Coconut Caramel Brownies
Yesterday, as the golden light of late afternoon spilled across my kitchen counter, I found myself lost in the comforting ritual of baking, a moment that led to the creation of these Coconut Caramel Brownies. Their rich, fudgy texture and the sweet, tropical hint of coconut caramel seemed to capture the essence of summer in every bite.
Ingredients
- For the brownie base:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- For the coconut caramel:
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. Tip: Ensure the butter is just melted, not hot, to avoid cooking the eggs.
- Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Sift in the flour, cocoa powder, and salt, folding gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can lead to tough brownies.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- While the brownies bake, prepare the coconut caramel. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the coconut milk and brown sugar, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Tip: The caramel will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Once the brownies are done, let them cool for 10 minutes, then pour the coconut caramel over the top, spreading it evenly.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. Tip: For clean cuts, use a sharp knife wiped clean between slices.
Lusciously rich and decadent, these brownies offer a delightful contrast between the dense chocolate base and the silky coconut caramel topping. Serve them slightly warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that’s sure to impress.
Coconut Passionfruit Tart
Vividly recalling the first time I encountered the harmonious blend of coconut and passionfruit, it was as if the flavors danced gracefully on my palate, leaving a lingering desire for more. This tart, with its creamy coconut filling and tangy passionfruit glaze, is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary.
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg yolk
- For the filling:
- 1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For the glaze:
- 1/2 cup passionfruit pulp
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a food processor, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt for the crust. Pulse to mix.
- Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the egg yolk and pulse until the dough comes together. Tip: If the dough is too dry, add a teaspoon of cold water.
- Press the dough evenly into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Chill for 15 minutes.
- Bake the crust for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let it cool slightly.
- In a saucepan, whisk together the coconut milk, sugar, eggs, cornstarch, and vanilla extract for the filling over medium heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Pour the filling into the pre-baked crust and smooth the top. Bake for 20 minutes, or until set. Cool completely.
- For the glaze, combine the passionfruit pulp, sugar, and water in a small saucepan. Simmer over low heat until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Tip: Strain the glaze for a smoother texture.
- Pour the glaze over the cooled tart and spread evenly. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving. Tip: Garnish with fresh passionfruit seeds or coconut flakes for an extra touch of elegance.
Now, the tart presents a delightful contrast between the crisp, buttery crust and the smooth, creamy filling, all brightened by the vibrant passionfruit glaze. Serve it chilled, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream, to elevate the tropical experience.
Coconut Rum Balls
Mellow evenings call for something sweet, something that carries the warmth of the tropics and the comfort of home. These Coconut Rum Balls are just that—a little bite of paradise, perfect for savoring slowly.
Ingredients
- For the dough:
- 2 cups crushed vanilla wafers
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup finely chopped walnuts
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup light rum
- 2 tbsp light corn syrup
- For coating:
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafers, powdered sugar, chopped walnuts, and cocoa powder until well mixed.
- Add the light rum and light corn syrup to the dry ingredients, stirring until the mixture comes together into a dough. Tip: If the dough feels too dry, add a teaspoon more rum or corn syrup.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet as you go. Tip: For uniform balls, use a small cookie scoop.
- Spread the shredded coconut on a plate. Roll each ball in the coconut until fully coated. Tip: For extra coconut flavor, toast the shredded coconut lightly before using.
- Chill the rum balls in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow them to firm up.
Best enjoyed chilled, these Coconut Rum Balls offer a delightful contrast between the crunchy coconut exterior and the soft, rum-infused center. Serve them on a platter with tropical flowers for a festive touch, or pack them in a decorative box as a sweet gift.
Coconut Blueberry Cobbler
Remembering the warmth of summer evenings, this dish brings together the tartness of blueberries and the sweetness of coconut in a comforting embrace. It’s a simple yet profound joy, much like the quiet moments that inspire it.
Ingredients
- For the filling:
- 4 cups fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For the topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
- In a large bowl, gently mix the blueberries, 1/2 cup sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until the blueberries are evenly coated.
- Transfer the blueberry mixture to a 9-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, 1/2 cup sugar, baking powder, and shredded coconut for the topping.
- Stir in the milk and melted butter into the dry ingredients until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the topping light.
- Drop spoonfuls of the topping mixture over the blueberries, covering them as much as possible.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the blueberry filling is bubbly.
- Let the cobbler cool for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set slightly.
Light and tender, the coconut topping contrasts beautifully with the juicy blueberries, creating a dessert that’s as delightful to eat as it is to behold. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Summary
Whether you’re a coconut enthusiast or just looking to sweeten your dessert repertoire, these 18 delicious coconut dessert recipes offer something for everyone. Easy to make and even easier to love, they’re perfect for any occasion. We’d love to hear which recipes you try and adore—drop a comment with your favorites! Don’t forget to share the love by pinning this article on Pinterest for your fellow home cooks to discover.