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Learn how to toast coconut with these two simple methods. It makes the perfect topping for cupcakes or cake, pies and even yogurt or oatmeal.
Homemade toasted coconut could not be easier. There’s two simple ways to toast coconut, on the stovetop or in the oven. Using the stovetop is perfect if you don’t already have the oven turned on.
Straight of the bag, coconut is a little sticky and sweet. Once toasted it dries out and gives it a nuttier, deeper flavor. Toasting it yourself is super quick and easy and it definitely levels up the dessert.
If you’re not doing this yet, it’s time to start!
How to toast coconut
On the stovetop
This is the quickest and easiest way to toast coconut and allows you to have more control over the process. It takes 5-7 minutes depending on how high you have the heat. However, it is better to cook it on lower heat to prevent burning.
- Place coconut in a skillet over medium-low to medium heat.
- Once the coconut starts to turn brown, stir frequently to prevent burning. Continue cooking until it reaches the desired color.
- Transfer the coconut to a plate to prevent it from further cooking. Cool completely.
In the oven
Usually, I toast my coconut in the oven when I am already baking something else. I don’t love to heat up my oven if I don’t have to.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Spread the coconut thinly on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 5-10 minutes until it reaches the desired color. Turn the coconut with a spatula once it starts to cook to prevent burning. Keep a close eye on it because it can burn quickly once it starts to toast.
- Transfer the coconut to a plate to prevent it from further cooking. Cool completely.
Ways to use toasted coconut
- It makes the perfect topping for a coconut cake
- Use it in cookies
- Add it to your frosting
- It’s perfect for topping cupcakes and cake and pies
- Add it to oatmeal or yogurt
How to store it
Once it’s completely cooled, it can be stored for a couple weeks in an airtight container.
How to Toast Coconut
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 cup
Print Recipe
Pin RecipeDescription
Learn how to toast coconut with these two simple methods. It makes the perfect topping for cupcakes or cake, pies and even yogurt or oatmeal.
Ingredients
- 1–2 cups sweetened or unsweetened shredded coconut
Instructions
On the stovetop
- Place coconut in a skillet over medium-low to medium heat.
- Once the coconut starts to turn brown, stir frequently to prevent burning. Continue cooking until it reaches the desired color.
- Transfer the coconut to a plate to prevent it from further cooking. Cool completely.
In the oven
- Preheat the oven to 350°
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Spread the coconut thinly on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 5-10 minutes until it reaches the desired color. Turn the coconut with a spatula once it starts to cook to prevent burning. Keep a close eye on it because it can burn quickly once it starts to toast.
- Transfer the coconut to a plate to prevent it from further cooking. Cool completely.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks
- Category: Side dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Toasted Coconut,
