Description
Chinese New Year Candied Coconut Ribbons are a delightful festive treat featuring thin, crispy ribbons of fresh grated coconut coated in a glossy caramelized sugar syrup. This traditional snack combines natural tropical coconut flavor with a sweet, crunchy texture, perfect for celebrating Lunar New Year or any joyful occasion. Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients and fully customizable with colors and flavors, these candied ribbons add a bright, festive touch to your celebration spread.
Ingredients
Scale
Core Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh grated coconut (or unsweetened shredded coconut, fresh if possible)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- Pinch of salt
Optional Additions
- Food coloring or pandan extract (for natural coloring and flavor)
- Toasted sesame seeds or edible gold flakes (for garnish)
- Cinnamon or five-spice powder (for spiced variation)
Instructions
- Preparing the Coconut: Start by finely grating fresh coconut to create thin, delicate ribbons. If fresh coconut is unavailable, use unsweetened shredded coconut ensuring it is as fresh as possible to maintain vibrant flavor.
- Making the Sugar Syrup: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar, water, and a pinch of salt. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves completely. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil to form a syrup that will caramelize and coat the coconut.
- Coating the Coconut: Add the grated coconut to the sugar syrup and stir steadily. As the syrup thickens and caramelizes, the coconut will become glossy and sticky, gradually forming characteristic ribbons.
- Shaping and Cooling: Quickly spread the sticky coconut mixture evenly onto a greased tray or parchment paper using a spatula. Let it cool completely at room temperature until firm and crisp.
- Cutting into Ribbons: Once cooled and set, carefully slice the candied coconut sheet into long, thin ribbons or bite-sized pieces. Store in an airtight container to maintain crispness until ready to enjoy.
Notes
- Use fresh grated coconut for the best flavor and texture.
- Monitor the sugar syrup closely to prevent burning.
- Spread the coconut mixture evenly for uniform drying and crispiness.
- Grease utensils and trays lightly to prevent sticking and ease cutting.
- Store candied ribbons in an airtight container at room temperature to preserve crunchiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ribbon (approx. 15g)
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Chinese New Year, candied coconut ribbons, festive snack, lunar new year treats, crispy coconut candy, traditional Chinese dessert
