Are you craving a sweet treat that's both incredibly easy to make and bursting with tropical flavor? Then look no further than these delightful Trini Coconut Drops! This classic Caribbean recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a truly delicious and satisfying dessert. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a complete beginner, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. It's the perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals – a guilt-free indulgence that's ideal for a quick dinner idea or simply satisfying a sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup desiccated coconut (unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup—a key element in making homemade cooking a breeze.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the desiccated coconut, flour, sugar, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients thoroughly ensures even distribution of flavors throughout your coconut drops.
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Add Wet Ingredients: Add the milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can result in tough coconut drops.
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Shape the Drops: Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each drop.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the coconut drops are firm to the touch. Keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to avoid burning.
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Cool & Enjoy: Let the coconut drops cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, you can enjoy these delicious treats!
Tips for the Best Coconut Drops:
- Use good quality coconut: The flavor of the coconut will greatly impact the overall taste of the drops. Choose a desiccated coconut that is fragrant and flavorful.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking will result in dry and hard coconut drops. Start checking them at 12 minutes.
- Get creative with spices: Feel free to experiment with other spices, such as cardamom or ginger, to add a unique twist to your coconut drops.
- Add nuts: For extra texture and flavor, consider adding chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the mixture.
Variations:
- Chocolate Coconut Drops: Melt some dark or milk chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled coconut drops for an extra decadent treat.
- Citrus Coconut Drops: Add the zest of a lime or lemon to the mixture for a refreshing twist.
- Spiced Coconut Drops: Increase the amount of nutmeg and cinnamon, or add a pinch of cloves or allspice, for a warmer, spicier flavor.
Nutritional Information (per drop, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 70-80 calories
- Fat: 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: 10-12g
- Sugar: 6-8g
- Protein: 1-2g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and best recipes. Enjoy the delicious taste of the Caribbean with these simple yet satisfying Trini Coconut Drops! They’re perfect for sharing with friends and family, or simply savoring on your own as a delightful and easy homemade cooking project.