Coconut

Cocos nucifera Nut/Fruit (Drupe)

Coconut Nut/Fruit (Drupe)

At a Glance

  • Category Nut/Fruit (Drupe)

The Forktionary Angle

"The Island Essential: Unpacking the Many Forms of Coconut"

Definition

The large, oval, brown seed of the coconut palm, valued for its sweet, fibrous white flesh, milk, and water in culinary uses.

Common Culinary Forms Shredded, Milk, Water, Oil
Storage of Shredded Coconut Airtight container, cool dry place (up to 6 months)
Unique Enzyme Activity Contains Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCTs)

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Coconut are:

Sweet Nutty Creamy Tropical

Chef’s Secret

Lightly toast shredded or flaked coconut in a dry pan over medium-low heat until golden brown to intensify its flavor and add a delightful crunch to any dish.

Best Substitutes

Almonds

for texture/nutty notes
Ratio 1:1

Macadamia Nuts

for richness
Ratio 1:1

Cashews

Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

When buying fresh coconut, shake it to ensure there's still plenty of water inside; this indicates freshness.

Recipes Using Coconut

Desserts 60 Minutes Or Less Cupcakes Cakes

Coconut Choco Delights

Indulge in these irresistible Coconut Choco Delights! Moist coconut flakes baked into a tender cupcake base are topped with a decadent, rich chocolate frosting. The perfect blend of tropical sweetness and chocolatey goodness – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! #coconutcupcakes #chocolatecupcakes #coconut #chocolate #baking #easyrecipe #dessert

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Desserts Cuisine Pasta Rice And Grains Main Ingredient

Almond Kowadjik

Indulge in this exquisite African twist on a classic dessert! Chef Keith Famie's Almond Kowadjik combines the delightful flavors of creamy coconut, tender rice, and crunchy almonds for a truly unforgettable culinary experience. This easy-to-follow recipe delivers a rich and satisfying dessert perfect for any occasion.

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Easy Course For Large Groups 3 Steps Or Less

Beachcomber Cookies

Indulge in these irresistible Beachcomber Cookies, a Food Network sensation by Aida Mellenkamp! These chewy, subtly spiced cookies are perfect for a sunny afternoon or cozy night in. The delightful combination of buttery sweetness and warm spices will transport you straight to the beach.

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Easy Dietary American Time To Make

Almond Power Bar

Fuel your body with these decadent, no-bake Almond Power Bars! Inspired by Melissa Diane Smith's Amaretto Protein Bars, this recipe is a cinch to make and packed with protein and fiber. Imagine crunchy almonds, chewy coconut, and a rich dark chocolate topping (optional, but highly recommended!). These bars are perfect for a healthy snack or post-workout treat. Skip the chocolate for a lighter version, but we highly recommend indulging in the antioxidant-rich dark chocolate goodness! Get the full recipe and detailed instructions here!

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Cuisine Time To Make Low Sodium Preparation

Aloha Sweet Potatoes

Capture the magic of a Hawaiian luau with these irresistible Aloha Sweet Potatoes! Inspired by the delectable sweet potatoes served at Honolulu's Hale Koa Hotel, this recipe delivers a taste of paradise. Sweet and caramelized, these tender potatoes are glazed to perfection with brown sugar and butter, then topped with a sprinkle of coconut for a touch of tropical flair. Easy to make and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

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Nuts Low Sodium Fruit Desserts

Banana Caramel Pecan Crumble Crisp

Indulge in this irresistible Banana Caramel Pecan Crumble Crisp! Warm, gooey banana and caramel filling is perfectly complemented by a crunchy pecan crumble topping. Delicious served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of custard, or enjoy it cool for a delightful treat with a hardened crumble. This easy recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing dessert.

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Equipment Time To Make Equipment Dietary

5 Star Bars

Relive your childhood with these incredible 5-Star Bars! Inspired by a beloved childhood candy, this recipe delivers rich, decadent chocolate squares that taste exactly like the real thing. Easy to make and perfect for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!), these bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready for a nostalgic treat that will transport you back to simpler times!

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Eggs Dairy American Number Of Servings Eggs Dairy

Almond Joy Balls

Satisfy your sweet tooth with these irresistible Almond Joy Balls! This easy no-bake recipe delivers the creamy coconut and rich chocolate flavor of your favorite candy bar, all homemade in under 30 minutes. Perfect for holidays, parties, or a special treat anytime!

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Hand Formed Cookies Holiday Event Low In Something 60 Minutes Or Less

Barefoot Contessa Thumbprint Cookies

Ina Garten's iconic holiday thumbprint cookies! These melt-in-your-mouth delights are perfectly crisp on the outside with a chewy center, bursting with sweet jam and coated in toasted coconut. This easy recipe is perfect for holiday baking or any special occasion. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these irresistible treats!

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Granola And Porridge Low Sodium No Cook For 1 Or 2

Banana Pops A Healthy Fun Kid Snack

Whip up these delicious and healthy Banana Pops in minutes! Perfect for active kids (and adults!), this fun recipe is a great after-school snack or a refreshing addition to any meal. Easy enough for little hands to help prepare, these frozen treats are packed with flavor and nutrients. Get ready for a healthy, fun, and super simple snack the whole family will love!

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Vegetarian Breakfast Snacks Preparation

Anna Olsen Granola Bars

Craveable homemade granola bars bursting with peanut butter flavor! This recipe from Anna Olsen features crunchy peanuts, sweet coconut flakes, juicy raisins, and a delightful mix of sunflower and pumpkin seeds. Warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg blend perfectly with the creamy vanilla and brown sugar for a taste sensation. No baking required! Simply mix, chill, and enjoy these delicious and healthy bars, perfect for breakfast, snacks, or on-the-go fuel.

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Main Ingredient Low Protein 60 Minutes Or Less Easy

Ambrosia 1 2 3 4 Salad

Indulge in this dreamy Ambrosia Salad – a simple yet elegant dessert perfect for coconut lovers! This easy recipe combines juicy fruits with creamy coconut for a refreshing treat. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Low In Something Healthy Low Cholesterol Microwave

Banana And Coconut Oatmeal

Start your day with a taste of the tropics! This quick and easy Banana Coconut Oatmeal recipe is packed with flavor and nutrients. Fluffy oats meet creamy coconut and sweet banana for a breakfast bowl that's both delicious and satisfying. Perfect for busy mornings, this recipe is easily customizable to your taste preferences – add nuts, seeds, or a drizzle of honey for an extra boost of flavor and energy. Get your daily dose of fruit and fiber with this vibrant and healthy breakfast!

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Occasion Brunch Dietary Eggs Dairy

Banana Sunset Dessert

Indulge in the tropical bliss of our Banana Sunset Dessert! This easy-to-make recipe, inspired by Turbana, combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with a hint of lime and rum for a truly unforgettable taste. Perfect for a warm evening or a special occasion, this dessert is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience a delightful explosion of flavors in every bite!

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Appetizers Dips Time To Make 3 Steps Or Less

Aloha Dip

Escape to paradise with this vibrant and refreshing Aloha Dip! Perfect for summer parties, BBQs, or a casual weeknight snack, this creamy dip is always a crowd-pleaser. Traditionally served in a pineapple half for a stunning presentation, this recipe is easy to make and tastes even better chilled. Get ready for a taste of the islands!

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Low Sodium Course Dietary Occasion

Bibingka Sweet Rice Flour

Indulge in the irresistible charm of Bibingka, a beloved Filipino dessert! This recipe uses sweet rice flour (mochiko) and creamy coconut milk to create a melt-in-your-mouth cake with a subtly sweet flavor. Warning: its addictive texture makes it impossible to eat just one slice! Prepare to be transported back to childhood with this classic treat, perfect for any occasion.

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4 Hours Or Less For Large Groups Coffee Cakes Time To Make

Almond Dream Coffee Cake

Indulge in the heavenly aroma and irresistible taste of our Almond Dream Coffee Cake! This moist and rich sour cream coffee cake is bursting with the delightful flavor of almonds, creating a symphony of textures and tastes in every bite. Perfect for brunch, coffee breaks, or any special occasion, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make and guaranteed to impress.

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Coconut Time To Make Nuts Fruit

Coffee Coconut Muffins

Start your day with the irresistible aroma and taste of these Coffee Coconut Muffins! Moist, fluffy, and bursting with coconut flavor, these muffins are the perfect complement to your morning coffee. Easy to make and incredibly delicious, this recipe is a must-try for breakfast or brunch.

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