Perfectly Sweet Coconut Candy: Easy Recipe Without Special Tools

Ingredients

300 grams (10.5 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
40 grams (1.5 ounces) butter (82% fat content)
80 grams (3 ounces) shredded coconut
Whole almonds
Additional shredded coconut for coating

Equipment

Medium saucepan
Essential for heating the sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly to avoid burning!
Sieve
Ensure a smooth mixture by straining the condensed milk.
Plastic wrap
Used to cover the mixture while it chills.
Refrigerator
A must for firming up the mixture before rolling into balls.
Small bowls
Handy for holding the additional shredded coconut for coating.

Instructions

Step 1

In a saucepan, heat the sweetened condensed milk over medium heat for about 8-10 minutes, stirring constantly.

Strain the mixture through a sieve, then add the butter and shredded coconut. For a smoother texture, you can grind the coconut in a coffee grinder.

Mix until the butter is fully melted and everything is well combined.

Cover the mixture with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a couple of hours.

Step 2

Roll the mixture into small balls, place an almond in the center of each ball, and coat each candy in additional shredded coconut.

Servings

Imagine a sunny picnic, a cozy tea party, or a festive holiday gathering. These coconut almond balls fit in perfectly! Here are a few fun ways to present them:

🔸 **On a tiered stand**: Create a charming display by stacking these balls on a lovely three-tiered stand. Perfect for high tea or a sophisticated brunch.

🔸 **In a colorful box**: Place the coconut almond balls in a decorative box as a delightful homemade gift. 🎁 Add a personalized note for that special touch.

🔸 **As cake toppers**: Use them to decorate a larger cake. Simply place one ball atop each slice to add an element of surprise and extra burst of flavor.

🔸 **With fresh fruits**: Create a tropical vibe by serving these balls alongside an assortment of fresh fruits such as pineapple, mango, and kiwi. 🍍🥭🥝 The natural sweetness of the fruit complements the creamy coconut perfectly.

Variations

Looking for a gluten-free or vegan version of this delightful treat? Here are some easy swaps:

🌟 **Gluten-Free Variation**: Good news! This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure your shredded coconut is free from any cross-contamination during processing.

🌟 **Vegan Variation**: Substitute the sweetened condensed milk with your favorite plant-based condensed milk. 🥥 Coconut condensed milk works fabulously and complements the shredded coconut. Swap the butter for dairy-free margarine, and you're good to go!

Faq

How do I know when the sweetened condensed milk is ready?
Keep stirring constantly to avoid burning. It's ready when it's thickened and slightly golden, usually around 8-10 minutes.
Can I skip adding the butter?
Butter helps achieve a smooth texture and richer flavor. However, you can substitute it with coconut oil for a different taste profile.
Can I use unsweetened shredded coconut?
Yes, but the sweetness level will be different. You might need to adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk.
How do I prevent the mixture from sticking to my hands when rolling into balls?
Lightly grease your hands with a bit of coconut oil or butter to make the rolling process easier.
Can I add other flavors to the mixture?
Absolutely! Try adding a dash of vanilla extract or almond extract for extra flavor.
How long do these coconut almond balls last?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to a month.