Sometimes the simplest recipes can carry the most vivid memories and feelings. When I think of Grandma’s Coconut Chews, I’m transported back to her sunlit kitchen, the air heavy with the sweet aroma of toasting coconut. With a gentle smile, she would offer these little golden nuggets straight from the oven, the texture a perfect mix of chewy and crunchy. They always felt like a warm hug, especially on those chilly afternoons when family gathered around the table sharing stories and laughter. Each bite was not just about flavor; it was about lineage, love, and the essence of home.
Recipe Timing
- Prep Duration: 10 minutes
- Active Cooking: 20 minutes
- Total Duration: 30 minutes
- Portion Size: About 24 chews
- Complexity: Simple
Nutritional Recipe
- Calories per portion: Approximately 100 calories
- Protein: 1.5 grams
- Carbs: 14 grams
- Fats: 5 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Sugars: 10 grams
- Sodium: 35 mg
Why You’ll Love This Grandma’s Coconut Chews
These chews are a delightful blend of textures and sweetness, making them perfect for all occasions. They are chewy yet crispy, and their combination of coconut and creamy condensed milk is simply irresistible. Whether you’re snacking alone or treating guests, these coconut chews effortlessly evoke nostalgia and warmth, reminding us of Grandma’s love and care. They’re so easy to whip up, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe again and again.
The Complete Cooking Journey
Getting started on Grandma’s Coconut Chews is a breeze. You only need a handful of ingredients, most of which you might already have in your pantry. As you mix and bake, your kitchen will fill with an enticing fragrance reminiscent of tropical paradises. The best part? They’re a hit with both kids and adults alike, making them a perfect treat for gatherings, celebrations, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded coconut
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Method:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) so it’s perfectly warm and ready for our chews!
Step 2: Gather & Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, chopped nuts (if using), and salt.
Step 3: Stir Until Evenly Mixed
Stir until all the ingredients are well combined, creating a sticky, coconut-filled mixture that will make your mouth water in anticipation.
Step 4: Spoon Onto Baking Sheet
Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about an inch apart for even baking.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the coconut chews are beautifully golden brown.
Step 6: Cool Before Serving
Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the delightful aroma while you wait!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Grandma’s Coconut Chews pair wonderfully with a light cup of tea or a robust coffee. For a fun twist, sprinkle them with a little sea salt just before they cool to enhance the sweetness. They also make great additions to dessert trays alongside brownies and fruit tarts.
Storage & Leftovers Guide
Store any leftover coconut chews in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, they can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks. These treats also freeze well! Just ensure they are sealed tightly in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips
- Keep it Even: Try to make each spoonful uniform in size so they bake evenly.
- Nutty Twist: If you’re not a fan of nuts, you can omit them entirely or substitute with different types of chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for a unique flavor.
- Spice It Up: For a fun variation, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture for an extra flavor dimension.
Flavor Variations & Adaptations
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few ideas to shake things up:
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in some mini chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
- Tropical Delight: Add a tablespoon of mango or pineapple extract for a tropical kick.
- Dairy-Free: Swap the sweetened condensed milk for a coconut-based version to keep the treat dairy-free.
Reader Questions & Solutions
Q1: What can I substitute for shredded coconut?
A: Unsweetened shredded coconut is a great sub for a more natural flavor, but you can also use finely chopped almonds or oats for a different texture.
Q2: Can I use low-fat condensed milk?
A: Yes, but be aware that it might alter the chewiness of your treats slightly.
Q3: I don’t have parchment paper; what should I do?
A: Greasing the baking sheet lightly with butter or non-stick spray will also work perfectly to prevent sticking.
Q4: How can I make them more chewy?
A: Bake them for a shorter time until just golden; the cooking time can significantly affect their texture.
Q5: Can I double this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Just be mindful of the larger baking sheet you might need and adjust baking times if necessary.
Wrapping Up
Grandma’s Coconut Chews are a beautiful reminder of the power of simple ingredients and cherished memories. With their delightful texture and sweet flavor, they offer a sense of comfort and familiarity that warms the heart. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and create your own batch. You’ll find that as you share these bites of nostalgia, they’ll quickly become a favorite to treasure and pass down, just like Grandma intended. Happy baking!
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Grandma’s Coconut Chews
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 chews 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delightful blend of chewy and crunchy textures with sweet coconut, these chews evoke warm memories and are perfect for all occasions.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded coconut
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, chopped nuts (if using), and salt.
- Stir until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chews are beautifully golden brown.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Great to enjoy with tea or coffee, and can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chew
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
