Bala Baiana (Brazilian Caramel Coconut Balls)

Ingredients

• 0.25 cup Butter (unsalted)
• 3 cup Desiccated coconut (unsweetened)
• 1 cup Condensed milk (sweetened)
• 1 cup Sugar (white granulated)
• 0.25 cup Water

Steps

1. 1

   In a pan, add 1/4 cup of butter and cook over low heat for a few seconds until it begins to melt.

2. 2

   Add 3 cups of desiccated coconut to the pan and cook, stirring constantly, until the butter is completely melted and the coconut is well coated.

3. 3

   Pour in 1 cup of condensed milk and mix thoroughly until the mixture is well combined and starts to pull away from the sides of the pan.

4. 4

   Remove the coconut mixture from the heat and set it aside to cool down until it is comfortable to handle.

5. 5

   Once cooled, take small portions of the mixture and roll them between your palms to shape them into multiple small balls.

6. 6

   In a separate clean pan, combine 1 cup of sugar and 1/4 cup of water. Stir briefly to moisten the sugar.

7. 7

   Cook the sugar and water mixture over medium heat without stirring too much until it reaches a golden amber caramel stage.

8. 8

   Place the prepared coconut balls onto skewers or toothpicks to make dipping easier.

9. 9

   Carefully dip each coconut ball into the hot caramel, coating it evenly, and place them on a greased surface or silicone mat to harden.

Notes

Be very careful when working with hot caramel as it can cause severe burns. Ensure the coconut balls are firm before dipping to prevent them from falling off the skewers.

Nutrition per serving

• dessert
• brazilian
• coconut
• caramel
• sweet treat
• gluten-free
• vegetarian
• party food