How To Toast Coconut (5-Minute Recipe)

Toasted coconut is used in many dishes and is a beautiful topping on cakes, cupcakes, and many desserts. Learn how to make this tasty coconut treat at home in less than 5 minutes!

Making toasted coconut at home may seem like a big ordeal, but it’s one of the easiest things you could ever make! Unlike coconut chips, which are marinated and baked sweet coconut flakes, toasted coconut only requires one ingredient: shredded coconut! 

There are dozens of uses for toasted coconut, but I use it most for decorating desserts (like my keto coconut cream pie) and use it in my homemade keto granola. 

There are two ways to make toasted coconut, and both only take 5 minutes to prepare. Below, I’ll share step-by-step instructions along with photos on how to prepare this recipe.

HOW TO MAKE TOASTED COCONUT

For this recipe, you will need shredded coconut, coconut flakes, or desiccated coconut (learn how to make desiccated coconut from fresh coconuts here). There are a few different ways to make toasted coconut at home. Below I cover how to make it on the stove top and in the oven.

STOVE TOP METHOD

Pour the desired amount of dried shredded coconut into dry skillet. Heat over medium-low heat, constantly stirring to prevent burning. The coconut will toast quickly, so make sure to keep a close eye on pan to prevent the coconut from burning. Remove the large skillet from the heat when the coconut is golden brown. Let it cool, then store it in an airtight container.

OVEN METHOD

Another method for making toasted coconut is to bake the coconut shreds in the oven.

Spread a thin layer of the desired amount of coconut over a large baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees for 3-5 minutes, or until the coconut is light and golden. I used two cups of coconut and spread an even layer over my cookie sheets. Stir the coconut halfway through baking to ensure the coconut toasts evenly.

FAQ

How do I store leftovers? You can keep leftovers in an air-tight container for a month in your pantry.

Can I use sweetened coconut in this recipe? Yes, sweetened coconut does work but the sugar can burn so keep an eye on the coconut flakes to make sure they don’t burn.

Can I make coconut butter from toasted coconut flakes? Yes! The coconut butter will have a different flavor compared to raw coconut butter, but it’s a good alternative.

If you love this recipe, then please check out my other coconut inspired recipes and articles like:

• How To Make Desiccated Coconut
• How To Use Coconut Milk Powder
• Coconut Ice Cream
• 50+ Coconut Flour Recipes
• Iced Coconut Milk Coffee Latte
• How To Choose The Best Coconut Oil

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