Here’s how to toast coconut! It’s incredibly easy, takes less than 10 minutes and the end result is crunchy and aromatic toasted coconut that you can enjoy as is or used in a variety of recipes.
Want to take your coconut to the next level? Toast it! This simple process will instantly level up your coconut for just about any recipe!
Similar to why you toast nuts, toasting coconut adds a robust, nutty flavor to plain coconut and can add great texture and flavor to a variety of recipes. It’s super simple to do and the end result is 100% worth the extra step!
Either works! I typically reach for unsweetened coconut because I like to control the amount of sugar a particular recipe has but you can toast either. It’s important to note that sweetened coconut toasts way faster than unsweetened because of the added sugar so keep an eye on it!
You can also use shredded coconut or coconut flakes. I mention this below but finely shredded coconut will toast much faster than coconut flakes!
In the oven: Spread the coconut out on a rimmed baking sheet. You can line the sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat if you’d like easy clean up! Bake the coconut at 325ºF for 5-10 minutes. Watch closely so it doesn’t burn and toss 1-2 times during cooking to make sure the batch browns evenly. The coconut is ready when it is lightly golden and fragrant.
On the stovetop: Add coconut to a dry skillet over medium heat – you don’t need any oil! Make sure you use a large skillet so the coconut is in a single layer. Let the coconut toast, stirring frequently until coconut is lightly golden and fragrant.
In the microwave: I don’t usually use this method but it’s a quick, easy option if you need it! Spread the coconut in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave in 30 second increments. Stir after each increment and repeat until the coconut is golden brown and fragrant.
If you don’t use all of the toasted coconut right away, store it in an airtight container. It will last up to 1 week at room temperature but up to 1 month in the refrigerator.
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