Grandma'S Fresh Coconut Candy
A sweet and chewy coconut candy with rich coconut flavor, perfect for coconut lovers and those seeking a nostalgic treat. Easy to make and deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the milk from the coconut and add water to make 1 cup of liquid.
- Open the coconut, peel off the brown skin, and run the meat through a fine meat grinder.
- In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of sugar with the coconut liquid and stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Cook over moderate heat for 5 minutes.
- Add the ground coconut and cream of tartar to the mixture and boil for 10 minutes.
- Set the mixture aside to cool, then beat until it thickens.
- Pour into a buttered pan and let it set until firm.
- Slice into pieces and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, ensure the coconut meat is finely grated before grinding. If you don't have fresh coconut, you can use pre-packaged shredded coconut, but make sure to hydrate it in warm water for a short time. Adjust the sugar to taste; if you prefer it less sweet, reduce the sugar by half a cup. This candy can also be flavored with a hint of vanilla or almond extract for extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
This fresh coconut candy is delightful on its own or served alongside a tropical fruit platter. It pairs beautifully with Pusser'S Painkiller cocktail for a festive touch. You can also serve it as a sweet ending to a meal featuring savory dishes, perhaps following a hearty serving of Mom'S Cooked Cabbage Slaw Dressing. Cut into small squares for bite-sized treats during gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Once the coconut candy has set, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you live in a humid environment, consider refrigerating it to prevent it from becoming too sticky. For longer storage, you can freeze the pieces in a freezer-safe container, where they can last for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Fresh Coconut Candy contains roughly 305 calories, with 2g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (106% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 sweetened shredded coconut instead of fresh coconut?
Yes, you can use sweetened shredded coconut as a substitute for fresh coconut, but it's important to adjust the sugar in the recipe since the shredded coconut will add extra sweetness. Hydrate the shredded coconut in warm water before using it to help achieve a better texture in the candy.
What if I don't have a meat grinder?
If you don't have a meat grinder, you can use a food processor to finely chop the coconut meat. Just be careful not to over-process it into a paste; you want a coarse texture that still has some bite to it. A box grater can also work if you grate the coconut by hand.
How can I tell when the candy is ready to set?
The candy is ready to set when it has thickened significantly and pulls away from the sides of the pan as you stir. After boiling for 10 minutes, you can do a quick test by dropping a small amount into cold water; if it forms a soft ball, it’s ready to pour into the pan to set.
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).