How To Toast Coconut (3 Ways!)

Name: How To Toast Coconut
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 0.5 cup shredded coconut (sweetened or unsweetened)

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Learn how to toast coconut in this easy baking tutorial! I’ll show you three different ways to toast coconut (including my favorite way!). Three simple methods – stovetop method, microwave method and oven method.

I’ve shared on the blog before other easy baking tutorials – how to toast pecans, and how to toast walnuts. So today I thought I’d share with you how to toast coconut!

There are many wonderful recipes here on the blog that call for toasted coconut so I wanted to show you three easy ways to do this. You can toast coconut on a baking sheet in the oven, in a microwave-safe bowl in the microwave, or in a large skillet on the stovetop.

You can choose whatever method works best for you! So are you ready? Grab a bag of coconut and let’s get toasting!

Why do you toast coconut flakes?

Toasting the coconut flakes will add texture and taste. The coconut flakes will become golden brown in color, add a crunchy texture, and sort of mellow out their coconut flavor.

Toasting is recommended so you get that depth of flavor that is just not the same with untoasted coconut! It’s the easiest thing to do and will be the perfect garnish for your desserts.

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What You Need

You only need one thing for this recipe (if you can even call it that)…you need coconut!

Coconut – You can use unsweetened coconut flakes or sweetened coconut (depending on your taste preference).

Stovetop Method

You can toast the coconut in a skillet on the stove top. This method doesn’t always produce the most even results in my opinion (but I know some bakers who swear by this because they can keep an eye on it). I find when I toast on the stovetop I get some coconut that is darker in color than others.

To toast on the stovetop:

Add plain coconut to a skillet in a single layer.
Heat over medium-low heat, making sure to stir occasionally and stir the coconut around until a desired color is reached.
Remove from the heat and allow to cool.

Microwave Method

Yes you can toast the coconut in your microwave! If you don’t have much time, then this may be the method for you!

Add about 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to a microwave-safe plate in an even layer.
Microwave in 30-second increments. After each 30 seconds, remove from the microwave and give it a stir.
Repeat with 30-second increments until desired color is reached.
Remove and allow to cool to room temperature before using.

Oven Method

Personally this is my absolute favorite method! I get the best toasted coconut using the oven. Since I am usually turning my oven on anyway I find this to be the easiest way to toast coconut and I get the best results this way (but again you can try all three methods and decide!)

1. Preheat oven to 350oF and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. Add coconut to a large baking sheet and spread out into a thin layer.

3. Toast coconut for 5 minutes. If you’re using a dark colored baking sheet, it may take less time.

4. Remove the sheet pan from the oven and give it a stir so you get an even toast. Toast again for an additional 5 minutes. Keep a close eye on it so you don’t end up with burnt coconut!

5. Remove from the oven and allow to cool. Store in an airtight container.

How To Use Toasted Coconut

You can use toasted coconut on a cake to add flavor, texture and decoration! Try using on my chocolate coconut cake, or my coconut layer cake! You can also use to top a coconut cream pie recipe with. I love sprinkling on toasted coconut onto my easy coconut bread!

Of course toasted coconut doesn’t just have to be used for desserts but also for breakfasts (try sprinkling on yogurt parfaits or fruit salad, or in a savory dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you store leftover toasted coconut?

You can store in an airtight container or zip-top bag in a cool, dry place for several weeks.

Can I use coconut chips or coconut flakes?

You can use whatever coconut you have on hand and use one of these three methods. You may find with larger size it may require extra time.

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