Broiled Coconut Topping

Prep: 5 min Cook: 3 min

A sweet and crunchy coconut topping that creates a golden, bubbly crust on cakes. Its rich flavors of toasted coconut, brown sugar, and buttery goodness make it perfect for special occasions or casual treats. Quick to prepare and broil, it adds a delightful finishing touch to desserts.

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Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup soft butter or margarine
  • 1/4 cup light cream or evaporated milk
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
  • 1 cup flaked or shredded coconut

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine the butter or margarine, cream or evaporated milk, brown sugar, and shredded coconut.
  2. Spread the mixture evenly over the top of a hot 8-inch or 9-inch square cake.
  3. Place the cake under the broiler, 4 inches from the heat, and broil for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and golden.
  4. Cool the cake in the pan on a wire rack; serve slightly warm.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using unsweetened coconut flakes instead of sweetened. You can also substitute the light brown sugar with coconut sugar for a more intense coconut flavor. If you're short on time, using store-bought cake can expedite the process without sacrificing taste. Keep a close eye while broiling, as it can go from golden to burnt very quickly.

Serving Suggestions

This broiled coconut topping pairs wonderfully with a simple vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delightful dessert experience. You can also serve it alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. For a festive touch, consider serving it with a slice of Coconut Cake(Portuguese) during holiday gatherings.

Storage & Reheating

To store leftovers, allow the cake to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or warm it in the oven at a low temperature to retain the topping's texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Broiled Coconut Topping contains roughly 723 calories, with 1g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 72g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value).

723 kcal 36% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.5g 3% DV
Total Fat 71.8g 92% DV
Carbs 19.9g 7% DV
Fiber 2.7g 10% DV
Sugar 17g 34% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 19.4mg 1% DV
Potassium 146.6mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 185.3mg 62% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 14.6mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 1.1mg 1% DV
Calcium 32.7mg 3% DV
Iron 0.8mg 5% DV
Diet fit Low-carb
Contains Milk

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of sugar for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute light brown sugar with granulated sugar or coconut sugar. Keep in mind that using granulated sugar may result in a slightly different flavor and texture, but it will still work well in this recipe.

What should I do if I don't have coconut?

If you don't have shredded coconut, you can omit it entirely or use chopped nuts as a topping instead. Alternatively, you could experiment with other flavors, such as adding chocolate chips or dried fruit for a different twist.

How do I know when the topping is done broiling?

The topping is done when it turns bubbly and golden brown, which typically takes about 2 to 3 minutes under the broiler. Be sure to watch it closely, as broilers can vary in intensity and can burn quickly.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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