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Desserts

Coconut Rock Buns

The Quirky Foodster Team

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Ingredients

  • 300 g (2 1/4 cups) all-purpose flour
  • 100 g (1 cup) desiccated coconut
  • 100 g (1/2 cup) sugar
  • 100 g (1/2 cup) butter, chilled and cubed
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 egg
  • 60 ml (1/4 cup) milk

Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F) and line a baking tray with parchment.
  2. Combine the flour, coconut, sugar, baking powder, salt and nutmeg in a large bowl.
  3. Rub in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
  4. Whisk the egg and milk together, then stir into the dry mixture until just combined and craggy (do not overmix).
  5. Drop rough spoonfuls of the mixture onto the tray, spacing them apart.
  6. Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden brown, then cool on a wire rack.

Introduction: Coconut rock buns are dense, lightly sweet baked buns studded with desiccated coconut, a legacy of British baking traditions adapted with local coconut flavour.

Cultural Background: Coconut rock buns are dense, lightly sweet baked buns studded with desiccated coconut, a legacy of British baking traditions adapted with local coconut flavour. Sold at Ghanaian bakeries and roadside stalls, their craggy, 'rocky' surface gives them their name.

Tips: Keep the mixing minimal for a properly craggy 'rock' texture; overmixing will make the buns dense and heavy.

Variations: Add raisins or chopped dried fruit for extra sweetness and texture.

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Best enjoyed at room temperature; warm briefly in the oven if a fresh-baked feel is desired.

Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal, Protein: 4 g, Carbs: 26 g, Fat: 12 g, Fibre: 2 g

FAQs:

Q: Why are they called rock buns?

A: Their bumpy, uneven surface after baking resembles small rocks, giving the buns their name.

Q: Can I use fresh coconut instead of desiccated?

A: Fresh grated coconut works but should be well-drained first to avoid adding excess moisture to the dough.