How to Toast Coconut

Overhead view of toasted coconut in a bowl.

Toasted Coconut is a delightfully simple 1-ingredient garnish that can easily elevate all your favorite baking projects. Whether you want to learn how to make toasted coconut in the oven, on the stovetop, or in the microwave, this easy recipe has you covered!

Course Snack

Cuisine American

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 15

Total Time 20

Servings cup

Calories 451kcal

Author John Kanell

Equipment

Baking Sheet
Large skillet

Ingredients

1 cup shredded or flaked coconut (100g)

Instructions

Oven Method:

Preheat the oven to 325F.
Spread coconut in a thin layer on a rimmed baking sheet.
Bake for 15 minutes, stirring the coconut every 3 to 5 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove and let cool completely.

Stove Top Method:

Place the coconut in a large skillet and cook over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until the coconut is golden brown, about 5 to 10 minutes depending on the desired color.
Remove from the skillet and let cool completely.

Microwave Method:

Spread the coconut in a large microwave-safe dish. Microwave on high in 15-second intervals, stirring between each until the coconut is golden brown, about 2 to 3 minutes. Let cool completely.

Notes

Sweetened coconut has a tendency to toast faster than unsweetened because the added sugar caramelizes when exposed to heat. I tested with sweetened coconut, so just keep an eye on the coloring of your coconut if you’re using unsweetened flakes.
Cook time will vary. These methods work for any type of coconut- shredded, flaked, or desiccated- though the cook times will be slightly different between each type because they are various sizes of flakes. Generally speaking, the smaller the pieces of coconut, the quicker they will brown.
Stir often for even browning. No matter which method you choose, don’t forget to move the coconut around so it doesn’t burn in some spots and stay white in others!
Use parchment paper for easy clean-up. Simply line your sheet tray or microwaveable plate with a piece of parchment. (If it’s not cooperating and rolling up on you, crumple it up into a ball, then flatten it back out.)

Nutrition