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Cocadas (Mexican Coconut Candy) Recipe

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Cocadas are traditional Mexican coconut candies that are chewy, sweet, and lightly golden on top. Made with shredded coconut, egg whites, and sugar, these delightful treats are perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth. Optional yellow food coloring adds a festive touch. Baked to perfection, cocadas are simple to make and wonderful for sharing.

  • Total Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Yield: 25 servings

Ingredients

Egg White Mixture

  • 3 large egg whites
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Main Ingredient

  • 3 cups unsweetened shredded coconut

Optional

  • Yellow food coloring (1-3 drops)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside to prepare for baking the cocadas.
  2. Mix Egg Whites and Sugars: In a medium-sized stainless steel bowl, combine the egg whites, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Whisk gently until just combined, taking care not to incorporate too much air to avoid a meringue-like texture.
  3. Add Coconut: Add the shredded coconut to the egg white mixture. Using a silicone spatula, gently fold the coconut into the mixture until everything is well incorporated.
  4. Add Food Coloring (Optional): Divide the coconut mixture into two portions if you choose to use food coloring. Add 1-3 drops of yellow food coloring to one portion and mix thoroughly until the coconut is evenly yellow.
  5. Form the Cocadas: Use a small cookie scoop to place scoops of the mixtures onto the lined baking sheet, leaving 2 to 3 inches of space between each one. If a cookie scoop is unavailable, use your hands to roll the mixture into balls about 2-3 tablespoons in size and flatten them slightly on the baking sheet. Arrange half the cocadas plain white and half yellow.
  6. Bake: Bake the cocadas in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until they are golden on top and around the edges.
  7. Cool: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cocadas to cool on the tray for 20 to 30 minutes before serving. This helps them set properly and enhances their chewy texture.

Notes

  • Do not over-whisk the egg whites to prevent the cocadas from turning into a meringue.
  • Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
  • Adjust the sweetness by using more or less sugar depending on preference.
  • For a vibrant yellow color, add the food coloring slowly until desired shade is reached.
  • Cocadas can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Consider adding a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness if desired.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Halal