Best Portuguese Coconut Cakes

Delicately sweet, moist, and bursting with coconut flavor, these Best Portuguese Coconut Cakes (Bolinhos de Coco) are a traditional treat loved across Portugal. With a golden exterior and a soft, chewy inside, they’re perfect for breakfast, afternoon coffee, or dessert. Made with just a few pantry staples, these little coconut cakes are simple to bake and incredibly satisfying.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Authentic Portuguese Flavor – A classic bakery-style treat
Quick & Easy – Just mix, scoop, and bake
Naturally Gluten-Free – No flour needed
Perfect Texture – Crispy on the outside, soft and moist inside
Great for Gifting – Stay fresh for days and easy to transport

Ingredients You’ll Need (Makes 12–14 cakes)
2½ cups shredded unsweetened coconut
1 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon or orange (optional but traditional)
Pinch of salt

Optional Add-Ins or Variations
1 tbsp coconut milk or sweetened condensed milk (for extra moisture)
¼ tsp almond extract
Sprinkle of cinnamon before baking
Drizzle of melted dark chocolate after baking

Tools You’ll Need
Mixing bowl
Whisk or spoon
Cookie scoop or tablespoon
Baking sheet
Parchment paper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine shredded coconut, sugar, salt, and lemon or orange zest if using.
In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs with vanilla.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until everything is fully combined and moistened.

Step 3: Shape the Cakes
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, form small mounds or balls of the mixture—about 1½ tablespoons each.
Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.
If desired, gently shape into domes or pyramids with your hands.

Step 4: Bake
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden and the bottoms are lightly browned.
Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Serve
Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
They’re perfect with coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.

Tips for the Best Portuguese Coconut Cakes
Use unsweetened coconut – Sweetened will make them too sugary
Don’t overbake – Keep them soft inside with a light crust
Add zest – Citrus brings a traditional flavor note
Use a scoop – Helps keep sizes uniform for even baking
Let cool – The texture sets beautifully as they rest

Serving Suggestions
With Espresso or Strong Coffee – Classic Portuguese pairing
As a Tea-Time Treat – Perfect with black or herbal tea
With Fresh Fruit – Strawberries or pineapple pair well
Pack for Picnics – Durable and mess-free
Holiday Treats – Add a festive twist with chocolate drizzle or spices

How to Store & Freeze

Storing:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days
Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking

Freezing:
Freeze in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months
Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use sweetened shredded coconut?
Yes, but reduce the sugar by ¼ cup to balance the sweetness.

Are these like macaroons?
Yes, but Portuguese coconut cakes are lighter, less dense, and have more rustic texture.

Do I need to use flour?
No flour is needed—these are naturally gluten-free!

Can I make them egg-free?
You can try using flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer, but results may vary slightly in texture.

What’s the difference between these and other coconut cookies?
These are traditional to Portugal and usually have fewer ingredients and a distinct lemony or citrus aroma.

Final Thoughts
These Best Portuguese Coconut Cakes are a true taste of tradition—simple, flavorful, and wonderfully chewy. Whether you’re new to Portuguese baking or looking to recreate a cherished family recipe, these little cakes are a beautiful place to start. Easy to make, hard to resist, and perfect to share!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 15–20 minutes
Cuisine: Portuguese / Traditional European

Nutritional Information (Per Cake):
Calories: 150 | Protein: 2g | Carbohydrates: 17g | Fat: 8g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 13g

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