Cocadas
Sweet, chewy coconut candies, traditionally made on the Caribbean coast. They can be white or brown depending on the sugar used, offering a delightful tropical treat.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500g Shredded coconut(Unsweetened shredded coconut is preferred. If using sweetened, you may need to slightly reduce the sugar.)
- 400g Granulated sugar(Use white granulated sugar for white cocadas. For brown cocadas, use brown sugar or piloncillo (panela) for a richer, caramel flavor.)
- 200ml Water(Or enough to dissolve the sugar.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the sugar syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved. Do not boil yet.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Cook the syrup: Bring the sugar syrup to a boil without stirring. Let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until it reaches the soft-ball stage (approximately 112-115°C / 235-240°F). You can test this by dropping a small amount into cold water; it should form a soft, pliable ball.
⏱️ 5-7 minutes - 3
Incorporate the coconut: Reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded coconut to the syrup. Stir continuously, ensuring the coconut is evenly coated and the mixture begins to thicken. This process is crucial for the texture.
⏱️ 15-20 minutes - 4
Cook until thick and glossy: Continue to cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens considerably and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan. It should have a glossy appearance and be thick enough to hold its shape. The color will deepen if using brown sugar.
⏱️ 5-8 minutes - 5
Form the cocadas: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Working quickly while the mixture is still warm and pliable, drop rounded spoonfuls (about 1-2 tablespoons each) of the coconut mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. You can shape them slightly with the back of the spoon.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 6
Cool and set: Allow the cocadas to cool completely at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or until firm to the touch. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
⏱️ 30+ minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a chewier texture, cook the mixture slightly longer until it's very thick. For a softer cocada, remove from heat a bit sooner.
- ✓Using brown sugar or panela (piloncillo) will result in darker, more caramel-flavored cocadas.
- ✓Ensure constant stirring in steps 3 and 4 to prevent scorching and achieve an even consistency.
- ✓If the mixture becomes too stiff to drop, you can add a tablespoon of hot water and stir vigorously.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the mixture in step 3 for added flavor.
- For a richer taste, incorporate a tablespoon of butter or a splash of condensed milk towards the end of cooking.
- Try adding a few drops of food coloring for festive cocadas.