Quick coconut dessert

Quick Coconut Dessert

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Are you looking for a quick, delicious dessert with an intense coconut flavor? This simple coconut meringue recipe will surely win you over! Perfect for a weekend treat or to impress your guests, this delicacy is easy to prepare and doesn't require complicated ingredients. Let's get started!

Ingredients:
- 150 g coconut (preferably large flakes for a more interesting texture)
- 130 g sugar (you can also use brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
- 2 egg whites (make sure they are at room temperature for a more stable foam)
- A pinch of salt (helps stabilize the foam)

Step 1: Preparing the egg whites
Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks, being careful not to let any yolk get into the whites. This is an essential step for achieving a well-beaten foam. Use a clean, dry bowl to beat the egg whites. Add a pinch of salt and use an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat the egg whites until they become frothy and form soft peaks.

Step 2: Sweetening the foam
Once you have a slightly firm foam, gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, continuing to beat. Make sure the sugar is completely dissolved before adding the next tablespoon. This is key to getting a perfect meringue: the sugar must be fully dissolved, otherwise, you'll have a grainy texture. Continue beating until the foam becomes glossy and forms stiff peaks.

Step 3: Adding the coconut
After you have a firm foam, add the coconut to the mixture. Use a spatula to gently fold the coconut into the foam, being careful not to deflate the meringue. Mix gently so that the coconut flakes are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare a baking tray with parchment paper. Use a spoon or piping bag to form small mounds of the mixture on the prepared tray, leaving enough space between them as they will expand slightly. Bake the meringues for about 20 minutes or until they are golden and crispy on the outside but remain soft on the inside.

Step 5: Cooling and serving
After baking, let the meringues cool on a cooling rack. They can be served warm or at room temperature. You can decorate them with a drizzle of melted chocolate or serve them alongside vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.

Possible variations:
- Add a bit of vanilla or almond extract to the egg white foam for an extra flavor.
- Replace the coconut with ground almonds for a different but equally delicious version.
- You can even add some dark chocolate pieces for a crunchy texture and decadent taste.

Practical tips:
- Make sure all utensils and bowls are completely dry, as moisture can affect the volume of the foam.
- If you want a fluffier meringue, you can use a mixture of egg whites and yolks, but you will achieve a different texture.

This quick coconut dessert is perfect for those who appreciate simple yet tasty sweets. Grab your friends or family and enjoy this delicious recipe!