Cocada (Coconut Candy)

5 steps. Take it one step at a time.

1. 01

   Combine the sugar, water, and cinnamon stick

   In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil over medium heat.

2. 02

   Simmer the syrup

   Simmer the syrup for about 5-8 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly (soft ball stage).

   8 min
3. 03

   Add the grated coconut

   Add the grated coconut to the syrup. Stir constantly to ensure all coconut is coated. Continue cooking over medium-low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and starts to pull away from the sides and bottom of the pan.

   15 min
4. 04

   Remove from heat

   Remove from heat and remove the cinnamon stick. Stir in the vanilla extract.

5. 05

   Line a tray with parchment paper

   Line a tray with parchment paper. While the mixture is still warm, use two spoons to drop mounds of the coconut mixture onto the paper. Let them cool completely at room temperature for at least 1 hour to set.

   1 hr