Pan de Coco (Soft comforting coco-nutty bread)

coconut milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: regular milk

Almond milk reduces calories while maintaining moisture.

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil adds flavor and is dairy-free.

grated coconut

🥗Healthier: unsweetened shredded coconut

💰Cheaper: dried coconut flakes

Unsweetened shredded coconut offers a healthier option.

sugar

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: brown sugar

Honey is a natural sweetener with a unique flavor.

Mix together sugar, yeast, and 1/3 cup milk; set aside for 10 minutes.

In another bowl, mix together flour and sugar; add the yeast mixture, milk, and oil; mix until a shaggy dough forms.

Place the dough on a smooth surface dusted with flour; knead until the dough is smooth and less sticky.

Place the dough in an oil greased bowl; cover and let rise for 1 hour and 30 minutes or until it doubles in size.

Prepare the filling by heating milk and brown sugar in a pan over medium heat; stir until the sugar dissolves; remove from heat and add desiccated coconut, salt, and vanilla; mix well and set aside to cool.

Punch down the dough and cut it into 20-22 pieces; stretch or flatten each piece, add 1-2 tablespoons of filling, pinch to seal, and roll into a ball.

Place the balls on a baking tray; cover and let rise for 1 hour.

Mix egg and water or milk to create the egg wash; brush over the dough balls before baking.

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 18-20 minutes; let cool slightly before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens