Since we are going to be using toasted coconut later this week (spoiler alert), I thought maybe it would be helpful if I shared exactly how to toast coconut. It isn’t very difficult, and it really makes treats like these, extra special. Though I like untoasted coconut, I’m not sure anything else compares to the flavors of toasted coconut. It maintains its sweetness, but toasting it adds a certain depth to the flavor – a little nuttiness and a little caramel-i-ness. The texture totally changes too. It becomes more crunchy rather than chewy. It’s an easy way to step things up. There are actually three ways that you can toast coconut. I often prefer the oven method, but use the method you are most comfortable with.
- sweetened coconut
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Pour coconut in a skillet, The skillet's size may vary depending on the amount of coconut you are toasting and should be large enough to spread the coconut in an even layer across the bottom. Cook the coconut over medium heat stirring frequently to keep from burning and to promote even browning. Your coconut may not toast as evenly with this method as it will using other methods.
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Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Spread coconut in an even layer over the bottom of a cookie sheet. Bake stirring every five-ten minutes. I find that I can get by stirring it after the first ten minutes, but after that I decrease the interval time to five minutes because once it starts to brown, it does so fairly quickly and burns easily.
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Spread coconut into an even layer on a microwavable plate. Microwave for 30 second intervals, stirring in between each burst until toasted to your liking.
Adapted from Flourish (microwave method)
I love the smell of toasted coconut. Nice tutorial 🙂
Thanks, Lydia. It seems that I use it quite a bit and took it for granted that everyone knew how to make it – I’m glad I took the time to write it out 🙂
Toasted coconut is good on some pies!
I love coconut cream pie, Jenne! One of my all time favorites!
I love toasted coconut, it’s such a rich flavour 🙂
Me too! I love how nutty it is! And it is perfect with caramel!
Great Post! I am always so afraid of burning the coconut!.
If you don’t mind standing at the microwave for a few minutes, it’s nearly fail proof 🙂
Now this is something I’ve never attempted, sounds easier than I thought 🙂
Lori, it’s totally easy!
This is so helpful. I always end up burning the coconut.
I know, I have to set timers to remind me or I do the same thing. That’s why the microwave method is handy.
I have been toasted coconut for longer than I can remember and never knew there were options other than the toaster/oven. This is great info.
Betsy, you will have to give them a try and let me know which is your favorite method 🙂
I love how super easy this is to do!
Rachel, it is so easy! I hope that after reading this post, those who might have been afraid to try, will see how easy it is and dig in!
Yum! Thanks for the recipe! I love coconut and think toasting would add some great flavors to some upcoming meals. Dropping by from SITS Sharefest!
Janelle, It’s so easy and delicious! You have to try it!
This is very helpfull and thanks for sharing the post.