Of course! This is a classic category of incredibly fast and easy desserts found in many cultures. The combination of coconut and sweetened milk is a match made in heaven.
Here are a few fantastic 15-minute (or less!) dessert ideas using these ingredients. No baking required!
- 5-Minute Coconut Fudge (Burfi)
This is a simplified version of the Indian sweet, yielding a rich, creamy, and decadent treat.
Ingredients:
· 2 cups unsweetened desiccated coconut
· 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
· 1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder (or vanilla extract)
· 1 tablespoon ghee or butter
· Pinch of salt
· Optional: Sliced pistachios or almonds for garnish
Instructions:
- Toast Coconut: In a non-stick pan, heat the ghee over medium-low heat. Add the desiccated coconut and toast for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
- Combine: Pour in the sweetened condensed milk, cardamom, and salt. Stir continuously.
- Cook: Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens, pulls away from the sides of the pan, and forms a cohesive mass.
- Set: Immediately transfer the mixture to a greased plate or small tray. Press down firmly with the back of a spoon or spatula to flatten.
- Garnish & Cool: Sprinkle with nuts and press them in gently. Let it cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing into squares. It will firm up as it cools.
- 5-Minute Coconut Truffles
These no-bake bites are perfect for a quick sweet fix.
Ingredients:
· 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
· 1/2 cup + 1/3 cup for rolling, desiccated coconut
· 1/2 can (about 2/3 cup) sweetened condensed milk
· 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
· Zest of half a lime (optional)
Instructions:
- Mix: In a bowl, combine 1 cup shredded coconut, 1/2 cup desiccated coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla, and lime zest (if using). Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Chill (Optional): For easier handling, chill the mixture in the freezer for 10 minutes.
- Roll: Take small portions of the mixture and roll into 1-inch balls.
- Coat: Roll the balls in the remaining 1/3 cup of desiccated coconut to coat.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for a firmer texture.
- 10-Minute Coconut Mousse
A light, fluffy, and elegant dessert that feels much fancier than the effort required.
Ingredients:
· 1 can (13.5 oz) full-fat coconut milk, chilled overnight
· 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk (or to taste)
· 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
· Toasted coconut flakes for topping
Instructions:
- Scoop Cream: Without shaking the can, open the chilled coconut milk. Scoop out the solid, thick coconut cream that has separated and risen to the top into a mixing bowl. (Save the leftover coconut water for smoothies).
- Whip: Using an electric hand mixer or a whisk, whip the coconut cream on high speed for 2-3 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy with soft peaks.
- Sweeten: Gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Serve: Spoon into glasses, top with toasted coconut flakes, and serve immediately.
- 2-Minute Coconut Dip with Fruit
The simplest “dessert” of all—perfect for a healthy-ish treat.
Ingredients:
· 1 cup plain Greek yogurt or whipped cream
· 2-3 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
· 1/4 cup toasted coconut chips or shredded coconut
· Fresh fruit for dipping (strawberries, banana slices, apple slices)
Instructions:
- Combine: In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt (or whipped cream) with sweetened condensed milk.
- Serve: Stir in most of the coconut, sprinkle the rest on top, and serve immediately with fresh fruit for dipping.
Key Tips for Success:
· Toasting Coconut: Toasting the coconut (in a dry pan over medium heat for 2-4 minutes) before using it in any of these recipes will dramatically enhance the flavor and add a wonderful crunch.
· Sweetened Condensed Milk: Remember, this ingredient is very sweet. You can always start with less and add more to taste.
· Texture Control: For the fudge and truffles, if the mixture is too sticky, add a little more desiccated coconut. If it’s too dry, add a tiny bit more condensed milk.
Enjoy your quick and delicious coconut creations