The sweet and tangy flavor of desiccated coconut has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of many. Whether you’re a fan of tropical getaways, decadent desserts, or savory snacks, this versatile ingredient is sure to elevate your culinary game. In this article, we’ll dive into 20 irresistible recipes that showcase the magic of desiccated coconut in all its glory.
From classic treats like Coconut Macaroons with Chocolate Drizzle and Classic Coconut Ladoo, to innovative twists on breakfast favorites like Desiccated Coconut Pancakes with Maple Syrup and Desiccated Coconut and Banana Bread, we’ve got you covered for every occasion. And if you’re looking for a little excitement in your life, try one of our many unique recipes, such as Coconut-Crusted Chicken Tenders or Tropical Coconut and Pineapple Salsa.
In the following pages, we’ll explore the endless possibilities of desiccated coconut in sweet and savory dishes alike. So grab a cup of coffee (or a tropical smoothie), get cozy, and let’s dive into the wonderful world of desiccated coconut recipes!
Coconut Macaroons with Chocolate Drizzle
These chewy coconut macaroons are a classic dessert that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. A drizzle of rich chocolate takes them to the next level!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Chocolate chips or chopped chocolate (for drizzling)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, sugar, flour, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, egg whites, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
8. Drizzle with melted chocolate before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Desiccated Coconut Pancakes with Maple Syrup
These fluffy pancakes are infused with the sweet flavor of desiccated coconut and topped with a drizzle of pure maple syrup, creating a delightful breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon melted butter
– 1/2 cup desiccated coconut
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir in desiccated coconut.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tropical Coconut and Mango Smoothie Bowl
Get ready to escape to a tropical paradise with this refreshing smoothie bowl, packed with the sweetness of mangoes and the creaminess of coconut.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup frozen pineapple
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Toppings: sliced almonds, shredded coconut, and fresh mint leaves
Instructions:
1. Combine mango, pineapple, unsweetened shredded coconut, Greek yogurt, honey, and vanilla extract in a blender.
2. Blend the mixture until smooth and creamy, adding ice cubes if desired to achieve the perfect consistency.
3. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and top with sliced almonds, shredded coconut, and fresh mint leaves.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Coconut-Crusted Chicken Tenders
Elevate your chicken tenders game with this easy recipe that combines the flavors of coconut and spices. Perfect for a quick dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and shredded coconut.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the beaten eggs, then coat in the coconut-panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each tender.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with paprika.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Classic Coconut Ladoo
A traditional Indian sweet treat, Classic Coconut Ladoo is a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that combines the flavors of coconut, cardamom, and nuts. With its perfect blend of crunch and chewiness, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated coconut
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup ghee or unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon cardamom powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds or cashews
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine coconut, milk, melted ghee, cardamom powder, and salt. Mix well.
2. Add baking soda and mix until combined.
3. Stir in chopped nuts and pistachios (if using).
4. Shape mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: None! These ladoos are ready to be enjoyed straight away.
Desiccated Coconut and Almond Energy Bites
These bite-sized treats combine the creamy richness of desiccated coconut with the crunchy texture of almonds, making them a perfect snack to keep you going throughout the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup desiccated coconut
– 1/4 cup almond butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the oats and desiccated coconut.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the almond butter and honey until smooth.
3. Add the almond butter mixture to the oat mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Fold in the sliced almonds.
5. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Place the energy bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These bite-sized treats are ready in no time!
Coconut and Lime Cheesecake Bars
These creamy cheesecake bars are infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of coconut and lime, making them perfect for a sunny day or a tropical getaway.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Mix crust ingredients and press into the prepared pan.
3. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, eggs, coconut, lime juice, and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pineapple and Coconut Upside-Down Cake
A sweet and tropical twist on the classic pineapple upside-down cake, this recipe combines juicy pineapple rings with toasted coconut flakes for a delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1 cup pineapple rings
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, granulated sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Add flour and shredded coconut; stir until just combined.
4. Arrange pineapple rings on top of the batter, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes before flipping onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Coconut and Chocolate Chip Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the rich flavors of coconut and chocolate, perfect for a sweet treat or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Stir in shredded coconut and chocolate chips.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Desiccated Coconut and Banana Bread
This sweet treat combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the nutty flavor of desiccated coconut, making it a perfect snack or breakfast option. With its tender crumb and aromatic aroma, this banana bread is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup desiccated coconut
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, coconut, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Coconut and Cardamom Rice Pudding
Experience the sweet and creamy union of coconut and cardamom in this unique rice pudding recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– Salt to taste
– Raisins or chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, shredded coconut, and ground cardamom. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture simmers.
2. Add cooked rice, butter, sugar, and salt to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the pudding thickens and comes away from the sides of the pan.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
6. Garnish with raisins or chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut-Crusted Fish Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful and crispy fish recipe, featuring the perfect blend of coconut, lime, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (white or cod work well)
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced avocado, sour cream, cilantro, and diced tomatoes for toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together shredded coconut, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each fish fillet into the coconut mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos by placing fish, avocado, sour cream, cilantro, and diced tomatoes onto tortillas.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Desiccated Coconut and Oatmeal Muffins
These moist and flavorful muffins are packed with the goodness of desiccated coconut and wholesome oatmeal, making them a perfect snack or breakfast option.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup desiccated coconut
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, desiccated coconut, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Coconut and Raspberry Thumbprint Cookies
These sweet and tangy cookies are perfect for a special occasion or just because. The combination of coconut, raspberry, and thumbprint filling creates a delightful treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup raspberry jam
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and coconut. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually mix in the flour-coconut mixture until just combined.
5. Roll dough into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
6. Use your thumb to create an indentation in the center of each cookie. Fill with a small amount of raspberry jam.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Tropical Coconut and Pineapple Salsa
Escape to a tropical paradise with this sweet and tangy salsa, perfect for topping your favorite tacos, grilled meats, or using as a dip. This refreshing condiment combines the creamy richness of coconut with the bright flavors of pineapple and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine pineapple, red onion, and chopped jalapeño.
2. Stir in shredded coconut and lime juice until well combined.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! This salsa is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Desiccated Coconut and Pumpkin Soup
This recipe combines the warm spices of pumpkin soup with the creamy richness of desiccated coconut, creating a comforting and unique dish perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– 1 cup desiccated coconut
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the pumpkin, cumin, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in desiccated coconut and season with salt and pepper.
5. Blend soup until smooth, then serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Coconut and Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta
Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing and creamy panna cotta infused with the richness of coconut and the warmth of vanilla bean. Perfect for warm weather, this dessert is light, airy, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1 tsp kosher salt
– 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
– 2 tbsp unsweetened shredded coconut (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and shredded coconut. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
2. Remove from heat and let steep for 10 minutes with the vanilla bean. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl. Discard the vanilla bean.
3. Pour the mixture into small individual serving cups or ramekins. Refrigerate until set, about 4 hours or overnight.
4. Just before serving, sprinkle with unsweetened shredded coconut.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Desiccated Coconut and Chia Seed Pudding
A refreshing and nutritious dessert perfect for hot summer days. This pudding combines the creamy texture of desiccated coconut with the nutty flavor of chia seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup desiccated coconut
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the desiccated coconut and chia seeds.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond milk and honey until well combined.
3. Add the mixture to the coconut-chia seed mixture and stir until the pudding thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of desiccated coconut if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Coconut and Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Moist and flavorful, this coconut-infused carrot cake is elevated by a tangy cream cheese frosting, making it perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine coconut flakes, eggs, carrots, yogurt, and melted butter. Add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting with cream cheese frosting (mix softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar until smooth).
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Desiccated Coconut and Sweet Potato Casserole
This creamy casserole combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the richness of desiccated coconut, perfect for a comforting side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup desiccated coconut
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sweet potatoes, desiccated coconut, melted butter, and heavy cream. Mix well.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and savory world of desiccated coconut! From classic treats like coconut macaroons with chocolate drizzle to innovative recipes like coconut-crusted chicken tenders, these 20 irresistible recipes have something for every occasion. Whether you’re craving a tropical smoothie bowl or a decadent cheesecake bar, this collection has it all. With flavors ranging from mango and lime to pineapple and raspberry, there’s never been a better excuse to get creative in the kitchen with desiccated coconut!
Leave a Reply