Holidays & Special Occasions
Doce de Coco (Cape Verdean Coconut Sweet)
Ingredients
- - Fresh grated coconut (or unsweetened desiccated, rehydrated) — 300 g (3.5 cups)
- - Sugar — 250 g (1.25 cups)
- - Water — 150 ml (2/3 cup)
- - Egg yolks — 3 large (3 large)
- - Cinnamon stick — 1 (1)
- - Butter, for greasing — 1 tsp (1 tsp)
Method
- Combine the sugar, water and cinnamon stick in a saucepan and bring to a simmer, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the grated coconut and cook over medium-low heat for 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolks, then temper them by stirring in a few spoonfuls of the hot coconut mixture.
- Pour the tempered yolks back into the pan and cook for a further 5–7 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened and glossy.
- Remove the cinnamon stick and spoon the mixture into a greased shallow dish or small moulds.
- Cool completely before slicing into small squares or turning out of moulds to serve.
Introduction: A rich, sticky coconut sweet made from grated coconut, sugar and eggs, doce de coco is prepared for Christmas and New Year celebrations across the islands, often gifted between neighbours during the festive season.
Cultural Background: A rich, sticky coconut sweet made from grated coconut, sugar and eggs, doce de coco is prepared for Christmas and New Year celebrations across the islands, often gifted between neighbours during the festive season.
Tips: Tempering the egg yolks slowly with the hot mixture prevents them from scrambling. Stir constantly once the yolks go in — this mixture can catch and scorch quickly on the bottom of the pan.
Variations: Add a few drops of vanilla extract for extra warmth. Press a whole clove into the top of each square before it fully sets, in the style of Portuguese-influenced sweets. Vegetarian; not vegan due to egg yolks.
Storage: Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Reheating: Not applicable — served cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition: Approx. 190 kcal, 2 g protein, 22 g carbohydrate, 11 g fat per piece.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use desiccated coconut instead of fresh?
A: Yes, rehydrate unsweetened desiccated coconut in a little warm water for 10 minutes before using.
Q: Why did my mixture curdle?
A: This usually happens if the egg yolks are added too quickly without tempering — always stir in a little hot mixture first to warm them gently. SEO Keywords doce de coco, cape verdean coconut sweet, crioulo christmas dessert Image Prompt A small tray of glossy golden coconut sweets cut into squares, festive holiday table with candles in the background.