Coconut Filling

Cook: 12 min

A rich coconut filling with sweet, creamy, and nutty flavors, perfect for layering in cakes or as a decadent dessert topping, appealing to coconut lovers and dessert enthusiasts.

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Ingredients

  • 1 c. evaporated milk
  • 1 c. sugar
  • 3 egg yolks
  • 1/2 c. butter
  • 1 tsp. vanilla
  • 1 1/2 c. coconut
  • 1 c. chopped pecans

Instructions

  1. Cook evaporated milk, sugar, egg yolks, butter, and vanilla until mixture thickens, about 12 minutes.
  2. Add coconut and chopped pecans; beat until thickened.
  3. Spread on cake layers or use as desired.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier filling, consider using full-fat coconut milk instead of evaporated milk. You can also substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired. To prevent the filling from curdling, make sure to whisk constantly while cooking. This filling works wonderfully in layered cakes or as a topping for desserts like the 'Lemon Christmas Cake'.

Serving Suggestions

This luscious coconut filling is perfect for spreading between cake layers or as a topping for cupcakes. It pairs beautifully with a light vanilla sponge cake or can be used in dessert cups with fresh fruit. Consider serving it alongside 'Skinny Fruit Dip' for a delightful dessert platter.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover coconut filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until it reaches the desired consistency. You can also use it cold as a spread or filling.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Coconut Filling contains roughly 1689 calories, with 30g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 128g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (68% of the Daily Value), protein (60% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

1689 kcal 84% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 30.1g 60% DV
Total Fat 127.6g 100% DV
Carbs 88.5g 32% DV
Fiber 6g 21% DV
Sugar 47.5g 95% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 385.5mg 17% DV
Potassium 718.2mg 15% DV
Cholesterol 600mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 459.9mcg 51% DV
Vitamin C 36mg 40% DV
Vitamin D 7.8mcg 39% DV
Calcium 582.1mg 45% DV
Iron 12.3mg 68% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Milk Egg Tree nuts

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 make the coconut filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the coconut filling a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before use. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and saves you time on the day of serving.

What can I use if I don't have pecans?

If you don't have pecans, feel free to substitute them with walnuts or almonds. Both options will add a different flavor profile but will still provide a wonderful crunch to the filling.

How can I thicken the filling if it's too runny?

If your filling is too runny, return it to the stove and cook over low heat while stirring constantly. This will help it thicken. You can also add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water to aid in thickening.

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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