If you have a sweet tooth and love a nostalgic treat that feels like a warm hug, this Coconut Ice Squares Recipe is just what you need. With its delightfully creamy texture, a subtle vanilla warmth, and the beautiful two-toned pink and white layering, every bite is a little piece of heaven that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re looking for a quick no-bake dessert or a colorful addition to your next gathering, these coconut ice squares bring simple ingredients to life in the most charming way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are humble but incredibly important in creating the rich texture and charming look of your Coconut Ice Squares Recipe. Each element plays a key role—whether it’s the smooth sweetness from the condensed milk, the delicate chewiness of the desiccated coconut, or the pop of pink color that starts conversations.
- Icing sugar (390 grams): The base that gives that melt-in-your-mouth sweetness and smooth consistency.
- Desiccated coconut (320 grams): Adds texture and the unmistakable tropical flavor that makes coconut ice so special.
- Sweetened condensed milk (395 grams): Binds everything together with creamy richness and just the right amount of sweetness.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Infuses the recipe with a gentle, comforting aroma that elevates the flavor.
- Pink or red food coloring: Creates that classic elegant contrast, making the squares pleasing to the eye and extra fun to eat.
How to Make Coconut Ice Squares Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Start by gathering your ingredients into a large bowl—icing sugar, sweetened condensed milk, desiccated coconut, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together thoroughly until you get a cohesive, slightly sticky mixture. This is the foundation of your coconut ice’s wonderful taste and texture, so make sure it’s well combined!
Step 2: Divide and Color
Once mixed, divide the mixture evenly into two bowls. Add a drop or two of your chosen pink or red food coloring to one bowl and knead gently until the color is fully blended. This step gives your coconut ice its signature two-tone look that’s both classic and charming.
Step 3: Prepare Your Pan
Grab a 20cm (8 inch) square baking pan and line it with baking paper. This not only makes removing the coconut ice easier but also ensures the squares come out perfectly intact.
Step 4: Layer the Coconut Ice
Press the white mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the lined pan. Then take the colored coconut mixture, break it into small pieces, and scatter them on top of the white layer, pressing gently to adhere. This layering creates a beautiful contrast and the unique marbled effect you want to achieve.
Step 5: Chill
Place the pan in the fridge and let it chill for about 3 hours. This step helps the coconut ice set to the perfect firm but tender texture that’s easy to cut but still soft enough to enjoy with every bite.
Step 6: Cut Into Squares and Enjoy
Use a sharp knife to carefully cut your set coconut ice into about 25 neat squares. Now, the best part—serve up your colorful, creamy treats and watch them disappear fast!
How to Serve Coconut Ice Squares Recipe
Garnishes
Though these squares are beautiful on their own, you can sprinkle a little extra desiccated coconut on top for added texture and visual appeal. Some finely chopped pistachios or edible flowers can also add a stunning touch for special occasions.
Side Dishes
Coconut ice squares pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making them a perfect afternoon treat. If you want to put together a small dessert platter, include fresh berries or tropical fruits to complement the coconut’s creamy sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, arrange your coconut ice squares on a decorative platter lined with banana leaves or colorful parchment paper. Wrapping individual squares in wax paper or cellophane makes for charming party favors or gifts that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, store your Coconut Ice Squares Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh and delicious for up to a week, making them a great make-ahead snack or treat to enjoy whenever the craving hits.
Freezing
You can freeze these squares easily by wrapping each piece tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. Freezing retains the flavor beautifully without compromising the texture.
Reheating
Since these are no-bake and meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, reheating isn’t necessary. Simply allow frozen squares to come to room temperature before serving for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use shredded coconut instead of desiccated coconut?
Yes, shredded coconut can work, but it has a coarser texture which might change the bite slightly. Desiccated coconut gives a finer, more traditional coconut ice texture.
Is there a substitute for sweetened condensed milk?
Sweetened condensed milk is key for the creaminess and sweetness, so it’s best not to substitute it. However, for dairy-free options, you might experiment with coconut condensed milk products, but results can vary.
How do I get vibrant pink coloring without artificial dyes?
You can use natural alternatives like beetroot powder or juice for coloring. Just add a little at a time as these can sometimes affect the flavor.
Can I make these coconut ice squares in other shapes?
Absolutely! You can press the mixture into muffin tins, silicone molds, or even roll it into balls for bite-sized treats. Just adjust chilling time accordingly.
Will the coconut ice keep well at room temperature?
It’s best to keep coconut ice refrigerated, especially in warm climates, to maintain its texture and prevent it from becoming too soft or sticky.
Final Thoughts
This Coconut Ice Squares Recipe is a delightful no-fuss treat that’s bursting with flavor and texture, ready to brighten up any day. Whether you’re making it for a party, a gift, or simply to satisfy your sweet cravings, it’s a timeless favorite that’s sure to bring smiles. Give it a go and enjoy each creamy, coconutty bite—you won’t regret it!
Print
Coconut Ice Squares Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 25 squares
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Australian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Coconut Ice recipe features a sweet, creamy, and colorful layered treat made from desiccated coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and icing sugar. The dessert consists of a white base layer and a vibrant pink top layer, set firmly in the fridge and cut into squares, making it a nostalgic and delightful no-bake treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 390 grams icing sugar
- 320 grams desiccated coconut
- 395 grams sweetened condensed milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Pink or red food coloring
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the icing sugar, sweetened condensed milk, desiccated coconut, and vanilla extract thoroughly until the mixture is well combined and sticky.
- Divide and Color: Transfer half of this mixture into a second bowl. Add a drop of pink or red food coloring to the second bowl and knead the mixture until the color is evenly distributed throughout.
- Prepare Pan: Line a 20cm (8 inch) square baking pan with baking paper to prevent sticking and make it easier to remove the set coconut ice.
- Layer Coconut Ice: Press the white coconut mixture firmly into the bottom of the lined pan to form an even layer. Then, break the pink coconut mixture into small pieces and press these pieces on top of the white layer to create a contrasting and colorful top layer.
- Chill: Place the pan in the refrigerator and allow it to set for 3 hours so that the coconut ice firms up and layers hold together.
- Cut into Squares: After chilling, remove the coconut ice from the pan using the baking paper. Use a sharp knife to cut it into 25 squares of equal size.
- Enjoy: Serve the coconut ice squares as a sweet treat or dessert and enjoy their rich, creamy texture and vibrant appearance.
Notes
- Use a sharp knife for clean cuts and to prevent crumbling when slicing the set coconut ice.
- You can customize the food coloring to any color you prefer or skip coloring for a plain version.
- Ensure the mixture is pressed firmly into the pan to avoid the layers separating when cutting.
- Store coconut ice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
