Cocada de Tabuleiro is a delicious traditional Brazilian dessert made primarily from shredded coconut and sugar.
Cocada de Tabuleiro is a traditional Brazilian dessert that originates from the northeastern region of the country. It is a delicious sweet treat made primarily from shredded coconut and sugar. The name “cocada” comes from the Portuguese word “coco,” which means coconut.
Cocada de Tabuleiro has a rich, sweet, and creamy flavor with a chewy and slightly sticky texture. It is a popular dessert in Brazil, especially during festivities and celebrations. It can be enjoyed on its own as a sweet treat or paired with coffee or tea. 
Fogo de Chao, a traditional Brazilian Churrascaria started in São Paulo and has now spread across the world with more than 29 locations is where tourists go for the ultimate Brazilian experience.
If you can’t get to any of the locations, try this delicious recipe at home for the ultimate Fogo de Chao experience of the Cocada de Tabuleiro dessert.
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Cocada de Tabuleiro
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Makes 12 1x
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
This traditional Brazilian treat is unbelievably easy to make. Sweet, rich coconut is baked to perfection – irresistible!
Ingredients
- 1 spoonful butter
- 0.5 cups (118 ml) coconut milk
- 8.5 cups (2000 ml) condensed milk
- 3 eggs
- 4 cups (946 ml) grated coconut
- 2 cups + 2 tablespoons (591 ml) milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 300°F and grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan with butter.
- Combine the butter, coconut milk, condensed milk, eggs, grated coconut, and milk in a blender.
- Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and uniform, about 30 seconds.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the top is set and lightly golden; the center should jiggle just slightly when you shake the pan.
- Remove from the oven and let the candy cool in the pan at room temperature for at least 20 minutes; it will firm up as it cools.
- Once cool, cut into small squares or rectangles.
- Arrange on a plate and serve alongside a scoop of ice cream if desired.
Notes
- To prevent scorching, use a low oven temperature and monitor closely.
- For a richer flavor, toast the coconut before adding it to the mixture.
- Store the cooled candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Brazilian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 50
- Sodium: 100
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 50
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 5
- Cholesterol: 50
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use sweetened shredded coconut instead of unsweetened for the Cocada de Tabuleiro?
Yes, you can use sweetened shredded coconut, but it may result in a sweeter final product. Adjust the amount of sugar accordingly to achieve your desired sweetness.
What should I do if my Cocada de Tabuleiro mixture is too sticky?
If the mixture is too sticky, ensure you are using the correct ratio of shredded coconut to sugar. You may also try refrigerating the mixture for a short period to help it firm up before spreading it in the pan.
How do I know when the Cocada de Tabuleiro is done baking?
The Cocada de Tabuleiro is done when the edges are golden brown and the center appears set. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Are the measurements accurate? Is that Litres? And kilograms? Seems like a lot.