Portuguese Coconut Cakes

Portuguese Coconut Cakes, known as Bolinhos de Coco, are delightfully soft and chewy mini cakes made with shredded coconut, sugar, and eggs. These golden treats are lightly crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, often served during holidays, celebrations, or as a simple everyday indulgence. Naturally gluten-free and full of coconut flavor, they’re a nostalgic favorite in many Portuguese homes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These coconut cakes are incredibly easy to make and deliver big flavor with just a few ingredients. Here’s why they’re a sweet favorite:

• Chewy, moist texture with a crisp golden exterior
• Naturally gluten-free and made with simple pantry staples
• Perfect for tea time, dessert, or a sweet snack
• Quick to prepare and bake—ready in under 30 minutes
• Great for holidays, cookie swaps, and festive trays

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Shredded coconut (unsweetened or sweetened, depending on preference)
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Butter, melted (optional for richness)
• Vanilla extract or lemon zest (optional for flavor)
• Pinch of salt

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease a muffin tin.
2. In a large bowl, combine shredded coconut, sugar, and salt.
3. Add eggs (and melted butter or vanilla/zest, if using) and mix until the batter holds together and is slightly sticky.
4. Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the mixture into small mounds or fill mini muffin cups.
5. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the edges and tops are golden brown.
6. Let cool on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

Makes about 18–24 small cakes
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate-dipped: Dip cooled cakes in melted dark or white chocolate for an elegant twist.
• Lemon or orange zest: Add citrus zest for a bright, refreshing flavor.
• Almond extract: Substitute a bit of almond extract for a nutty background note.
• Tropical: Mix in finely chopped dried pineapple or mango for a tropical spin.
• Toasted coconut: Toast half of the coconut for extra flavor and color contrast.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
To keep longer, refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat, warm in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to restore texture.

FAQs

What are Portuguese Coconut Cakes made of?

They’re made primarily of shredded coconut, sugar, and eggs—simple ingredients with delicious results.

Are these similar to macaroons?

Yes, they’re quite similar to coconut macaroons, but with a distinct Portuguese twist in flavor and texture.

Can I use sweetened coconut?

Yes, but reduce the sugar slightly if using sweetened shredded coconut to avoid making them overly sweet.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the butter or replace it with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil.

Do I need to refrigerate the dough?

No chilling is required—this is a quick-mix-and-bake kind of recipe.

Can I use flaked coconut instead of shredded?

Finely chop flaked coconut if needed. Shredded coconut works best for consistent texture.

Can I shape them differently?

Absolutely—shape into balls, domes, or press into muffin cups depending on your presentation preference.

What do these taste like?

They’re sweet, chewy, and rich with coconut flavor—perfect for coconut lovers.

Are these gluten-free?

Yes! They contain no flour and are naturally gluten-free.

Can I add nuts?

Sure—finely chopped almonds or cashews make a great addition for added texture.

Conclusion

Portuguese Coconut Cakes are a wonderfully simple and delicious way to enjoy the sweet, chewy flavor of coconut in a traditional bite-sized treat. Perfect with a cup of coffee or as part of a dessert spread, these little cakes are quick to make and impossible to resist. Whether you’re familiar with Portuguese cuisine or just discovering it, this recipe is a sweet place to start.

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