Description
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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Ingredients
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
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.
Notes
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
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
- Cuisine: 150 | Protein: 2g | Carbohydrates: 17g | Fat: 8g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 13g