Dear friends of Paulina Cocina! Today we're suggesting a recipe we love because it's easy, delicious, and fun to make with the kids in the house: Cocadas .
These snacks, known for their irresistible combination of coconut and caramel , are a delight for both adults and children, so there's nothing better than learning how to prepare them in just a few steps and with very simple ingredients.
Today we're going to share all the details you need to prepare the cocadas recipe , including their characteristics, possible variations, tips, and questions and answers to clear up any doubts and inspire you to make these delicious treats at home.
About cocadas
Cocadas are a traditional sweet from Chilean cuisine, known for their exquisite combination of coconut and manjar ( dulce de leche ) .
These delicacies are usually presented in small portions, generally in the form of balls, and are characterized by their sweet flavor, texture, and visual appeal.
The basic recipe for Chilean cocadas includes grated coconut, manjar, and crushed cookies , creating a mixture that is molded into small portions before being refrigerated to achieve the ideal consistency.
They are also often prepared in other countries such as Argentina, where they are known as dulce de leche truffles .
Some features of the recipe for cocadas for children
Coconut candy for children is usually presented in a cheerful manner, using vibrant colors that attract the attention of the little ones.
- Ideal for making with children: This recipe is usually prepared with safe and easy-to-handle ingredients, ensuring that little ones can participate in its preparation.
- Perfect size: They're made in small portions, ideal for children to enjoy without overindulging. The idea is that every bite is a fun and flavorful experience.
- Soft and pleasant texture: The texture of this coconut dessert is soft and easy to chew, ensuring a pleasant experience for little ones.
Decorating homemade cocadas with playful details, such as colorful sprinkles, sprinkles, or fun shapes, is a common practice in recipes intended for younger children.
Some questions and answers about the cocadas recipe
How to make coconut cookies? Preparing this dessert with cookies is a simple process that elevates the final result. Instead of using only shredded coconut , crushed cookies are added to give it a crunchier texture and a unique depth of flavor. This method adds a twist to the traditional recipe.
What kind of cookies are used to make cocadas? They can be made with Maria cookies, which provide a perfect balance between softness and firmness. The texture of these cookies blends harmoniously with the coconut and caramel, without overpowering the flavor of those ingredients.
How long do they take to prepare? The time required to prepare this recipe is relatively short. On average, from preparation to cooling, you can expect to spend around 45 minutes enjoying these delicacies.
When are Chilean cocadas enjoyed? These snacks are a common staple at celebrations and festivities in Chile, and are also enjoyed as a homemade gift or sweet treat any time of year. Homemade cocadas are also a common addition to the Christmas dessert table, and are often even made with the typical colors of the holiday.
Tips for making Chilean cocadas
- Fresh coconut: Check that the shredded coconut has a dry texture and is not wet, as this can alter the consistency.
- Pastry dough: To ensure a firm consistency, it is important to use a pastry dough .
- Work quickly: Once the ingredients are mixed, work quickly to shape them without them sticking too much.
- Proper Refrigeration: Allow the manjar coconut candies to cool completely in the refrigerator to achieve the ideal consistency.
- Experiment with decorations: You can add decorative touches such as chopped nuts or chocolate pieces for an original presentation.
Exploring variations and combinations of homemade coconut candies
With their classic base of coconut and dulce de leche , so often used in many recipes, such as coconut and dulce de leche pudding or coconut and dulce de leche tart , they invite creativity. Discovering new ingredient combinations and exploring different varieties can take this tradition to new heights of flavor.
Additional ingredients to enrich this recipe:
- Adding small pieces of dried fruit , such as pineapple, mango, or papaya, can add a burst of tropical flavors.
- Adding walnuts , almonds , or pistachios provides a crunchy texture and a touch of extra flavor.
- chocolate lovers , adding chips or chunks of dark or white chocolate takes cocadas to the next level.
- Experimenting with the addition of instant coffee or spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg , or cardamom can offer a unique dimension of flavor.
- Introducing other traditional Chilean sweets , such as alfeñique or merengue , can combine two delicacies in one.
- A touch of lemon or orange zest adds a fresh flavor and a very tasty citrus note.
Varieties of cocadas:
- Chocolate Cocadas: Substituting some of the shredded coconut with cocoa powder and adding chocolate chunks creates a chocolate version.
- Nutty: Combining coconut with crushed nuts adds a crunchy texture and a more robust flavor to these bites.
- With fruit filling: Creating small balls with a center of fresh fruit, such as blackberries or raspberries , provides a juicy surprise in every bite.
- Coffee and white chocolate: Mixing instant coffee into the dough and adding white chocolate results in a variation with a subtle touch of coffee and sweetness.
- Peanut and caramel: Incorporating peanut and a touch of liquid caramel provides a perfect combination of salty and sweet.
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Coconut candy recipe
Yields : 20 units
Preparation time: 45 minutes
Ingredients for the homemade cocadas recipe
- 1 cup of grated coconut.
- 1 cup of Chilean delicacy.
- 1 cup of crushed Maria cookies.
How to make the cocadas recipe for children step by step
- In a bowl, mix the crushed cookies with the caramel. Mix well until a manageable paste forms. If the paste is too dry, adjust by adding a little more caramel.
- With slightly damp hands or using two greased spoons, form small balls approximately 2 cm in diameter. Roll each ball in the shredded coconut to coat them completely.
- Place the cocadas in an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before enjoying. This will help the cocadas set and harden slightly.
