If you’re craving a dessert that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with tropical coconut flavor, Cocada con Leche Condensadais the perfect treat. Popular across Latin America—from Mexico and Peru to Colombia and the Caribbean—cocada is beloved for its simplicity and indulgent sweetness.

Made with shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and warm vanilla, cocadas can be soft and chewy, lightly caramelized, or even crunchy depending on how long they’re cooked. Whether served at holidays, special occasions, or just as an afternoon treat, this homemade version is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love Cocada con Leche Condensada

✨ Rich & Creamy — Sweetened condensed milk makes each bite soft, sticky, and luxurious
✨ Minimal Ingredients — Only 3–4 pantry staples!
✨ Easy Customization — Add cinnamon, shape into balls, or bake into bars
✨ Perfect for Sharing — Great for gifting, celebrations, or holiday dessert trays

This is one of those classic recipes that proves simple really can be spectacular.

Ingredients You’ll Need

(Makes about 24 cocadas)

• 2 cups shredded coconut
  (sweetened for softer cocadas, unsweetened for a more caramelized chew)

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Optional: a pinch of salt (recommended if using unsweetened coconut)

• Optional: cinnamon or extra coconut for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Base

In a medium saucepan, combine:

• Shredded coconut

• Sweetened condensed milk

• Vanilla extract

• (Optional) pinch of salt

Stir well until everything is evenly coated.

Step 2 — Cook the Mixture

Place the pan over medium heat.

Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and begins to pull away from the sides of the pan.
It should look sticky, glossy, and lightly golden.

Step 3 — Cool the Mixture

Remove from heat and let the mixture cool for 5–10 minutes.
It should remain warm but manageable.

Step 4 — Shape the Cocadas

You have two options:

For Balls (Traditional Style):
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and roll into balls using slightly damp hands.

For Bars or Squares:
Press the warm mixture into a parchment-lined 8×8 baking pan and smooth the top.

Step 5 — Garnish & Set

Sprinkle with cinnamon or extra shredded coconut if desired.

Allow to cool completely at room temperature, or refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to firm quickly.

Step 6 — Serve & Enjoy

Cut into bars or bite-size pieces.
Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cocadas

🥥 Use sweetened coconut for extra moisture and tenderness
🔥 Cook slowly — too much heat makes them dry or crumbly
🧈 Use a silicone spatula to prevent sticking
✨ Add citrus zest (like lime or orange) for a Caribbean twist
🍫 Dip bottoms in chocolate for a gourmet gift-style treat

Flavor Variations

Try these fun twists:

• Chocolate Chip Cocadas — Stir mini chips into the warm mixture

• Almond Cocadas — Add almond extract + toasted sliced almonds

• Cinnamon Cocadas — Mix ½ teaspoon cinnamon into the base

• Caramel Cocadas — Cook a few minutes longer for a deeper caramel color

• Piña Colada Cocadas — Add ¼ cup crushed pineapple (well drained)