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Portuguese Coconut Cakes (Bolos de Coco) Recipe

4.5 from 61 reviews

Portuguese Coconut Cakes, known as Bolos de Coco, are delightful small cakes with a rich coconut flavor and a tender, moist crumb. These traditional treats combine simple ingredients like fresh coconut, sugar, and eggs to create a lightly sweetened, golden-baked dessert perfect for teatime or a sweet snack.

Ingredients

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Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups grated fresh coconut (or unsweetened shredded coconut)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs

Instructions

  1. Prepare the batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the grated coconut, granulated sugar, and eggs. Stir or whisk well until all ingredients are fully incorporated, forming a smooth batter with a slightly thick consistency.
  2. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to reach the temperature before baking the cakes. This ensures even baking and the characteristic golden color.
  3. Bake the cakes: Pour the batter into a greased or lined muffin tin or small cake molds. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cakes turn lightly golden on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  4. Cool and serve: Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature as a sweet snack or dessert alongside tea or coffee.

Notes

  • For a more intense coconut flavor, use fresh grated coconut instead of dried shredded coconut if available.
  • You can dust the finished cakes with powdered sugar for extra sweetness and presentation.
  • If you prefer a moister texture, consider adding a tablespoon of melted butter or coconut oil to the batter.
  • These cakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days.

Keywords: Portuguese coconut cakes, Bolos de Coco, coconut dessert, baked coconut cake, traditional Portuguese sweets