Are you looking for a way to add some tropical flair to your day? Look no further than creamy cream of coconut recipes! With its rich, velvety texture and subtle coconut flavor, this versatile ingredient can elevate everything from sweet treats to savory dishes.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 deliciously creative ways to use cream of coconut in your cooking. From decadent desserts like Cream of Coconut Pie with Toasted Meringue and Piña Colada Cheesecake with Cream of Coconut Swirl, to comforting breakfasts like Coconut Cream French Toast with Caramelized Bananas and Creamy Coconut Pancakes with Tropical Syrup, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and creamy or bold and adventurous, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, get creative, and let the creamy goodness of cream of coconut take your taste buds on a tropical getaway!
Cream of Coconut Pancakes with Tropical Syrup
Start your day with a sweet and indulgent breakfast treat that combines the creamy richness of coconut with the sweetness of tropical fruit. This recipe is perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup cream of coconut
– 1 large egg
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan
– Tropical Syrup (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, cream of coconut, and egg.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat. Grease with butter or oil.
5. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1 minute.
Tropical Syrup:
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup mango puree
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened slightly. Serve warm over pancakes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes for 8-10 pancakes.
Coconut Cream Pie with Toasted Meringue
A tropical twist on a classic cream pie, this Coconut Cream Pie with Toasted Meringue is the perfect dessert for warm weather gatherings. The combination of creamy coconut custard, toasted meringue, and flaky pastry crust will transport your taste buds to a beachside paradise.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Meringue topping (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, and shredded coconut.
3. Beat in egg yolks and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Pour filling into pie crust and bake for 40-45 minutes or until filling is set.
6. Prepare meringue topping (see below) and toast under broiler until golden brown.
Meringue Topping:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
Beat egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form. Spread over pie filling and toast under broiler.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes (pie) + 2-3 minutes (toasting meringue)
Creamy Coconut Rice Pudding with Cardamom
Experience the warm, comforting flavors of India with this rich and creamy rice pudding infused with the sweet, spicy aroma of cardamom. Perfect for a cozy evening treat or as a unique dessert to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, coconut milk, sugar, cardamom, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the pudding thickens and the flavors meld together.
4. Remove from heat, stir in melted butter, and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Coconut Cream French Toast with Caramelized Bananas
Elevate your breakfast game with this sweet and indulgent treat that combines the richness of coconut cream and caramelized bananas with crispy French toast.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (preferably challah or brioche)
– 1 cup coconut cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Cinnamon or nutmeg for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together coconut cream, eggs, sugar, and salt.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Dip each bread slice into the coconut mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Place coated bread slices in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
4. Meanwhile, melt butter in a separate skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced bananas and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and tender.
5. Assemble by placing cooked French toast on a plate, topping with caramelized banana slices, and serving warm.
Cooking Time: approximately 15-20 minutes
Piña Colada Cheesecake with Cream of Coconut Swirl
Experience the flavors of the Caribbean with this creamy and dreamy cheesecake, featuring a velvety cream of coconut swirl.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake:
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1 cup shredded coconut
For the swirl:
– 1 can (14 oz) cream of coconut
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust and press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Mix cheesecake ingredients until smooth, then pour over crust.
4. Drizzle pineapple juice and sprinkle shredded coconut on top.
5. For the swirl, mix cream of coconut with softened butter until combined.
6. Dollop spoonfuls of swirl mixture onto cheesecake batter.
7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until center is set.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes
Coconut Cream Tres Leches Cake
Moist and creamy, this Coconut Cream Tres Leches Cake is a twist on the classic Latin American dessert. The addition of coconut cream adds a rich and indulgent flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup coconut cream
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and unsweetened shredded coconut.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and poke holes all over the top with a skewer.
7. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut cream, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
8. Pour cream mixture evenly over warm cake.
9. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cream of Coconut Ice Cream with Toasted Coconut Flakes
Elevate your ice cream game with this creamy and indulgent coconut-based treat, perfectly complemented by the crunch of toasted coconut flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut, toasted
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat your ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut milk, heavy cream, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions (about 20-25 minutes).
4. During the last 5 minutes of churning, add toasted coconut flakes and butter; continue to churn until fully incorporated.
5. Transfer the finished ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed (ice cream maker takes care of it!)
Enjoy your creamy and crunchy Coconut Cream Ice Cream with Toasted Coconut Flakes!
Coconut Cream Fudge with Macadamia Nuts
Coconut Cream Fudge with Macadamia Nuts Recipe
A rich and creamy fudge infused with the tropical flavor of coconut and crunchy macadamia nuts, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped macadamia nuts
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk, butter, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches 235°F on a candy thermometer (about 10 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in macadamia nuts, shredded coconut, and salt. Let cool slightly.
4. Pour into prepared baking dish and refrigerate until set, about 2 hours.
5. Cut into squares and serve.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Creamy Coconut Curry Chicken
This recipe combines the richness of coconut milk with the warmth of Indian spices to create a deliciously creamy and flavorful dish. With chicken, vegetables, and aromatics, this curry is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium-sized onions, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, potatoes)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
2. In the same pan, add onions, garlic, and ginger. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add coconut milk, mixed vegetables, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce thickens and the chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Cream Bread Pudding with Rum Sauce
Transform ordinary bread into an extraordinary dessert with this rich Coconut Cream Bread Pudding, topped with a velvety Rum Sauce. This indulgent treat is perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
– Rum Sauce ingredients: see below
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, coconut, and eggs.
3. Add bread cubes, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt; stir until bread is well coated.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and let it sit for 10 minutes.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow to cool before serving with Rum Sauce (recipe below).
Rum Sauce:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons dark rum
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Combine ingredients in a small saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until smooth and creamy.
Coconut Cream Stuffed French Toast
Elevate your breakfast game with this decadent twist on classic French toast. Moist bread filled with a creamy coconut mixture and topped with toasted coconut flakes will make your taste buds do the happy dance.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of Challah bread
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Toasted coconut flakes for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, unsweetened shredded coconut, sugar, and salt until smooth.
2. Cut bread into 1-inch thick slices and hollow out the centers, leaving about 1/4 inch of bread on each side.
3. Stuff each slice with the coconut cream mixture, dividing it evenly among the four slices.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and melted butter.
5. Dip each stuffed bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
6. Cook in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm, topped with toasted coconut flakes.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cream of Coconut Smoothie with Mango and Lime
Escape to the islands with this refreshing and creamy smoothie, blending the richness of coconut with the sweetness of mango and a squeeze of lime.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen mango
– 1/2 cup cream of coconut
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine frozen mango, cream of coconut, and Greek yogurt.
2. Squeeze in the lime juice and add honey if desired.
3. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
4. Add ice cubes if you want a thicker consistency and blend until combined.
5. Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (just blend!)
Coconut Cream Panna Cotta with Passion Fruit Glaze
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy panna cotta infused with the richness of coconut and topped with a tangy passion fruit glaze. Perfect for warm weather, this refreshing treat is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp kosher salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tbsp unflavored gelatin
– 1/4 cup passion fruit puree or juice
– 2 tbsp honey
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine gelatin and cold water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
3. Add softened gelatin and stir until dissolved.
4. Remove from heat and stir in unsweetened shredded coconut.
5. Pour mixture into individual serving cups or ramekins.
6. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
7. To make the glaze, combine passion fruit puree or juice and honey in a small bowl.
8. Drizzle glaze over panna cotta just before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Creamy Coconut Polenta with Grilled Pineapple
Experience the tropical flavors of the Caribbean with this creamy polenta dish, perfectly complemented by the sweetness of grilled pineapple. This recipe is a unique twist on traditional polenta, adding a rich and creamy coconut element that will elevate your meal to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup polenta
– 4 cups water
– 1/2 cup coconut cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 ripe pineapple, sliced into wedges
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the polenta and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the polenta is creamy.
2. Stir in the coconut cream, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Grill the pineapple wedges for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
4. Serve the grilled pineapple on top of the creamy polenta.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Cream Flan with Caramelized Coconut
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy, caramel-filled flan that combines the richness of coconut cream and the sweetness of caramelized coconut. This recipe is perfect for coconut lovers and those looking for a unique twist on traditional flan.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade), for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, and shredded coconut.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until pale yellow.
4. Add melted butter and whisk until combined.
5. Pour mixture into ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
8. Caramelize shredded coconut by cooking it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly, until golden brown.
9. Serve flan chilled with caramelized coconut on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cream of Coconut Macaroons Dipped in Chocolate
These chewy macaroons get a luxurious upgrade with the addition of creamy coconut and a rich chocolate coating.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine coconut, sweetened condensed milk, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. Add the softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
7. Dip cooled macaroons into melted chocolate, allowing excess to drip off.
8. Place dipped macaroons on a wire rack or parchment paper to set.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Coconut Cream Mousse with Fresh Berries
This refreshing dessert is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a sweet treat any time of the year. A simple combination of coconut cream, whipped to perfection, and fresh berries creates a delightful and satisfying ending to your meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup chilled coconut cream (see note)
– Fresh berries of your choice (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Fold in the unsweetened shredded coconut and kosher salt.
3. Chill the mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, fold in the chilled coconut cream.
5. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Top with fresh berries and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply chill and assemble just before serving.
Creamy Coconut Oatmeal with Toasted Almonds
Start your day off right with this creamy and delicious oatmeal recipe, infused with the warmth of toasted almonds and the richness of coconut.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 cup water or milk (or a combination of both)
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the oats, coconut, butter, honey, and salt. Stir until the oats are well coated.
3. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oatmeal is creamy and the coconut is toasted.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Sprinkle the sliced almonds on top and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Sweeten your day with these creamy cream of coconut recipes! From sweet treats like Coconut Cream Pie and Piña Colada Cheesecake to savory dishes like Creamy Coconut Curry Chicken, there’s something for everyone. Indulge in creamy pancakes, French toast, and bread pudding, or try your hand at creamy rice pudding, polenta, and oatmeal. Even dessert lovers will delight in fudge, macaroons, and mousse. With so many delicious options to choose from, you’re sure to find a new favorite recipe.