Cocada Cremosa
BrazilianDessert

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

Cocada Cremosa is a beloved Brazilian confection that showcases the tropical flavor of coconut in its most decadent form. Unlike the harder, chewier cocada, this creamy version features a smooth, custard-like consistency that has made it a favorite at festivals, family gatherings, and street markets throughout Brazil. The dessert originated in the northeastern coastal regions where coconuts are abundant, and has been passed down through generations of Brazilian cooks. The combination of freshly grated coconut, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and butter creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. When properly prepared, the result is a golden-topped square of pure indulgence with a perfectly balanced sweetness and rich coconut essence. This recipe is simple enough for beginners yet delivers sophisticated results that will impress any dessert lover.

Instructions

step by step
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  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish with butter and set aside.

  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and regular milk. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated.

  3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth mixture.

  4. Stir in the melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the batter is completely homogeneous.

  5. Pour the coconut mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

  6. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  7. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely in the pan on a cooling rack. The cocada will firm up as it cools.

  8. Once cooled, cut into 12 equal squares using a sharp knife.

  9. Serve at room temperature or chilled. Optional: dust with cinnamon before serving.

Cocada Cremosa

4.1 (20)

A luscious Brazilian coconut dessert with a creamy, fudgy texture. This traditional sweet combines fresh coconut with condensed milk and eggs for an irresistibly rich treat that melts in your mouth.

easy
50 min
12 servings

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

  • 3 cups coconut, freshly grated or unsweetened shredded
  • 1 cups milk, sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 cups milk, whole milk
  • 4 pieces eggs, large, at room temperature
  • 3 tablespoons butter, melted and slightly cooled

Flavorings

  • 1 teaspoons vanilla-extract
  • 1/4 teaspoons salt

Garnish

  • 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon, ground (optional)

Chef Tips

expert advice
For the best flavor, use fresh coconut if available, though packaged unsweetened shredded coconut works well too.
If using sweetened coconut, reduce the condensed milk slightly to balance the sweetness.
The cocada can be customized by adding a teaspoon of lime zest for a citrus note, or a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolate variation.
For a more traditional presentation, some cooks like to caramelize a thin layer of sugar on top using a kitchen torch.
The texture should be creamy and slightly jiggly when warm, setting to a fudge-like consistency when cool.
If the mixture seems too thick before baking, add an extra tablespoon of milk.
Conversely, if it appears too thin, add a bit more coconut.
This dessert pairs beautifully with Brazilian coffee or a glass of cold milk.
Cocada Cremosa | Cuisinao