Irresistible Pan de Coco: A Filipino Sweet Bread Delight

Pan de Coco, also known as coconut bread, is a beloved sweet bread in Filipino cuisine and is among the most popular bread choices in the Philippines. This delectable treat features a filling made from desiccated coconut cooked in brown sugar, making it a delightful choice for those with a sweet tooth. If you've been craving Pan de Coco, there's no need to wait any longer – it's time to discover the joy of making this delicious coconut-filled bread, and you can even indulge your craving by adding extra filling to your heart's content.

 

Delightfully Divine Flavor:

The magic of Pan de Coco lies in its soft, buttery flavor that is simply divine. This sweet bread is a treat for your taste buds and an excellent addition to your kids' lunchboxes or a delightful snack for the entire family. Best enjoyed with a steaming cup of tea or coffee, Pan de Coco is suitable for mornings, afternoons, or any time of the day.

 

 Variety in Baking:

When you make your own Pan de Coco, you have the freedom to get creative and go wild with the amount of coconut filling you add. If you're a coconut enthusiast, you can load up your Pan de Coco with an extra helping of the delicious filling.

  

How to Make Pan de Coco or Coconut Bread:

Ingredients for Pan de Coco:

- 4 cups all-purpose flour (sifted)

- 1 sachet (7g) dry yeast (Tandaco brand)

- ½ cup caster sugar

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 2 eggs

- ¾ cup fresh milk (lukewarm)

- ½ cup water (lukewarm)

- ½ cup butter (softened)

- Extra flour for kneading

- Eggwash (1 egg yolk + 1 tablespoon water)

 

Ingredients for Coconut Filling:

- 2 cups desiccated coconut

- 1 cup brown sugar

- 1/4 cup softened butter

- 1/4 cup water

 

Instructions for Coconut Filling:

1. In a small saucepan, combine all ingredients for the coconut filling: desiccated coconut, brown sugar, softened butter, and water. Simmer over low heat for 5 minutes, stirring to prevent sticking to the pan. The filling should have a thick and sticky consistency. Allow it to cool and set it aside while preparing the dough.

 

Instructions to Make Pan de Coco:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine sifted flour, caster sugar, salt, and yeast. Mix well.

 2. Add in the eggs, softened butter, lukewarm milk, and lukewarm water. Use a paddle attachment and mix quickly until the ingredients are incorporated.

 3. Change the attachment to a dough hook, scrape the sides, and mix for another 10 minutes at low speed. Check the dough every 3-5 minutes, as it may overflow on the hook. Scrape the sides and leave the dough in the mixing bowl, covering it with a towel. Allow it to rest for 1 hour.

 4. After 1 hour, remove the cover and punch down the dough. Divide the dough into 10-12 equal portions, depending on the desired size.

 5. Use a rolling pin to flatten each portion into a circle and add 1-2 tablespoons of the coconut filling in the center. Close the dough by pulling the sides to the center to seal it. Repeat with the remaining dough.

 6. Allow the filled dough to rise for another 30 minutes.

 7. To make the eggwash, combine the egg yolk and water. Brush each roll with the egg wash.

 8. Preheat the oven to 160°C (fan-forced). Bake the rolls for 15 minutes or until the tops are lightly golden brown.

 9. Once baked, let the Pan de Coco cool slightly before enjoying your homemade Filipino sweet bread.

 

 

With your homemade Pan de Coco, you'll savor the delightful taste of this beloved Filipino sweet bread. Whether you prefer it with an extra dose of coconut filling or as a snack with your morning coffee or tea, Pan de Coco is a versatile treat that satisfies both cravings and sweet tooth. Explore the world of Filipino baked goods further by trying other recipes like pandesal and ensaymada, or venture into the unique twist of Vegemite and cheese ensaymada.