Traditional Brazilian Cocada Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of shredded coconut
  • 1 cup of sugar
  • 1/2 cup of water
  • 1/2 cup of condensed milk
  • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
  • Butter, for greasing the pan

Steps and instructions

  1. Grease a baking tray or cookie sheet with butter and set it aside.
  2. In a large saucepan, mix together the shredded coconut, sugar, and water.
  3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
  4. Add the condensed milk to the saucepan, stirring constantly to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
  5. Continue cooking the mixture until it thickens and begins to pull away from the sides of the pan. This will take about 15-20 minutes.
  6. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
  7. Using a spoon, drop mounds of the coconut mixture onto the greased baking tray. Make sure to leave space between each one as they will spread while cooling.
  8. Allow the cocadas to cool completely before serving. They will harden as they cool.

Tools for making

  • Saucepan - Used for cooking the coconut mixture on the stovetop.
  • Baking tray or cookie sheet - Used to place the cocadas for cooling and hardening.
  • Spoon - Used for stirring the coconut mixture and dropping mounds onto the baking tray.
  • Butter - Used for greasing the baking tray to prevent sticking.

Recipe variations

  • Add chopped nuts such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts to the coconut mixture for added crunch.
  • Replace the sugar with brown sugar for a richer flavor.
  • Experiment with different flavors by adding spices like cinnamon, cardamom, or nutmeg to the mixture.
  • For a tropical twist, mix in diced dried fruits such as pineapple or mango.
  • Create a chocolate version by adding cocoa powder or melted chocolate to the coconut mixture.
  • Make it vegan by using sweetened condensed coconut milk instead of regular condensed milk.
  • Try using different types of shredded coconut like toasted coconut or coconut flakes for varying textures.
  • Add a tablespoon of lime or lemon zest to the mixture to give it a citrusy kick.
  • For a boozy twist, incorporate a splash of rum, bourbon, or coconut-flavored liqueur to the mixture.

Recipe overview

This recipe is going to guide you through the process of making Cocada, a traditional Brazilian coconut candy that's delightfully sweet and easy to prepare at home. With its rich, coconutty flavor enhanced by the creamy sweetness of condensed milk and a hint of vanilla, Cocada is a perfect delight for those with a sweet tooth. The recipe involves creating a mixture of shredded coconut, sugar, and condensed milk that is cooked until it thickens and starts to caramelize. The mixture is then spooned onto a greased tray to cool and harden into delicious bites of heaven. It’s a straightforward process that requires only a few ingredients and yields a deliciously satisfying result. Enjoy the process and the end product of this simple and delightful Cocada recipe!

Common questions

  1. Can I use desiccated coconut instead of shredded coconut? Yes, you can use desiccated coconut as a substitute for shredded coconut in this recipe.
  2. Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar? Yes, you can use brown sugar as a substitute for white sugar, but it will alter the color and flavor of the cocadas.
  3. Can I use coconut milk instead of condensed milk? No, coconut milk cannot be used as a substitute for condensed milk as it will not provide the same consistency and sweetness.
  4. Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the cocadas? Absolutely! You can add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the coconut mixture for added texture and flavor.
  5. How long do the cocadas need to cool before serving? It is best to allow the cocadas to cool completely, which usually takes around 1-2 hours, to ensure they have hardened and set properly.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Baking tray or cookie sheet - Used to hold and shape the cocadas while they cool.
  • Saucepan - Required for cooking the coconut mixture.
  • Spoon - Used to drop mounds of the coconut mixture onto the baking tray.
  • Butter - Needed to grease the baking tray or cookie sheet to prevent sticking.

Origin stories

Cocada is a traditional sweet treat that holds a special place in the culinary history of many countries, particularly in Latin America and the Caribbean. It originated in the coastal regions, which are abundant in coconuts. Interestingly, in Brazil, cocada is often sold by street vendors, and has a unique cultural significance - it was often made and sold by Afro-Brazilian women who were either slaves or former slaves. Over time, cocada has evolved into many versions, with different countries adding their own unique twist, but the love for this coconut delight remains the same. Its simplicity, sweetness, and deliciously tropical flavor make it a cherished recipe handed down through generations.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.