Learn how to toast coconut flakes to perfection with this easy step-by-step guide. Get deliciously crunchy and fragrant coconut flakes for use in various sweet and savory dishes.

It costs approximately $1.08 to make this Toasted Coconut. The recipe makes sixteen servings for around $0.06 per serving. 

From this Coconut Cream Cake and Toasted Coconut White Chocolate Macadamia Nut Bars to Hawaiian Haystacks, toasted coconut is one of my favorite add-ins to cook and bake with! 

A close up overhead picture of toasted coconut in a bowl.

Toasted Coconut

Coconut is a versatile ingredient that can add flavor, texture, and visual appeal to a wide range of dishes. Toasting is one of the best ways to bring out its nutty aroma and crunchy texture.

In this guide, I’ll show you how to perfectly toast coconut, with tips, tricks, and storage recommendations to help you get the most out of this delicious ingredient.

Like toasting nuts, toasting coconut is one of those extra steps in a recipe that elevates the entire dish. It’s so easy to do, and it’s my go-to garnish for fruity desserts and even rice!

Ingredients and Estimated Cost

Per Serving Cost: $0.06

Recipe Cost: $1.08

  • 1 cup of coconut – $1.08

NOTE: The recipe prices are calculated by using grocery store websites. The recipe cost is calculated by the amounts needed for the recipe. The actual cost of the recipe will vary depending on what ingredients you already have. I updated the pricing for this recipe in March 2023.

Shredded coconut in a skillet before it's toasted.

How To Toast Coconut

***For complete recipe instructions and a recipe video, see the recipe card below.

Stove-top Directions

  1. First, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the coconut. 
  2. Then stir the coconut until the coconut is golden brown. This will take about three to five minutes. 

Step 2 - How to Toast Coconut

Oven Directions

  1. First, preheat the oven to 325 degrees F and evenly spread the coconut onto a baking sheet. 
  2. Bake for about eight to ten minutes, stirring every two minutes. Bake until the coconut is golden brown. 

Stovetop Toasted Coconut

I like toasting coconut in a skillet best. Here’s why:

  • You have more control over the heat, so toasting is faster.
  • No need to wait for the oven to preheat.
  • I always have eyes on the coconut and never have to set a timer to check on it.
  • Finally, you don’t have to heat the oven to make toasted coconut. This is a definite pro during the summer!

Oven Toasted Coconut

  • Although toasting coconut in the oven isn’t my favorite method, it does have its pros.
  • You can toast more coconut at a time because the baking sheet has more surface area than the skillet.
  • You don’t have to stand watch while toasting it. Instead, you can set a timer and come back every few minutes.

Storage Tips

SERVE: Serve on top of sundaes, fruit and yogurt parfaits, savory dishes, on top of oatmeal, and in baked goods.

STORE: Toasted coconut can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four weeks, or in the fridge or freezer for up to six months.

FREEZE: Place in an airtight container or zipper-top bag and freeze for up to one year.

***Keep in mind that the coconuts texture and flavor may change over time, so it’s best to use it as soon as possible for the best results.

The finished toasted coconut in a bowl.

Recipe FAQs

Do you toast sweetened coconut?

Yes, you can toast it with either method. However, sweetened coconut will toast faster than unsweetened, so keep an eye on sweetened coconut!

How dark should toasted coconut be?

You want to toast the coconut until it becomes golden brown. Each oven and stove cook differently, so use my timeline as a guide as you watch for the coconut to turn from white to golden brown. A light brown color will have a nutty taste, while a darker brown shade will have a deeper nutty flavor. 

Can I toast frozen coconut?

Yes, but remember that it may take longer and release more moisture than fresh coconut. Thaw the frozen coconut completely before toasting it, and pat it dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.

A bowl of toasted coconut flakes in a bowl on a cutting board.
5 from 12 votes

How To Toast Coconut

Recipe Cost $ $1.08
Serving Cost $ $0.06
Prep Time 1 minute
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 9 minutes
16 people
Learn how to toast coconut to perfection with this easy step-by-step guide. Get deliciously crunchy and fragrant coconut flakes every time!

Equipment

  • measuring cup
  • skillet OR rimmed baking sheet
  • a stove or oven

Ingredients
 
 

  • 1 cup coconut flakes

Instructions

TOAST ON STOVETOP:

  • Heat a 10-inch skillet over medium heat. Add the coconut. 
  • Stir the coconut constantly until the coconut is mostly all golden brown, about 3-5 minutes.

TOAST IN OVEN:

  • Move the oven rack to the middle position and the oven to 325℉.
  • Spread the coconut out evenly onto a rimmed baking sheet.
  • Bake until golden and fragrant, stirring every 2 minutes with a rubber spatula, about 8 to 10 minutes.

Video

Notes

  • When toasting coconut in the oven, you can fit up to 3 cups of coconut on the baking sheet. 
  • Sweetened coconut will toast faster than unsweetened coconut, so keep an eye on it when you’re toasting it!
  • Add a pinch of salt or a splash of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
  • The nutritional information provided below is for 1 cup of toasted sweetened coconut. 

Nutrition

Serving: 1Tablespoon | Calories: 35kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 0.4g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.04g | Monounsaturated Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 2mg | Potassium: 29mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 0.4g | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 1mg | Iron: 0.2mg

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14 Comments

  1. I’ve been buying toasted coconut until now but I’m going to make my own from now on! Thanks for the great recipe!

  2. Meagen Brosius says:

    I love that I can make a big batch of this and then have it on hand for so many tasty recipes! It’s delicious and such a great summer flavor!

    1. Exactly, I always have some on hand in my pantry.

  3. I love toasted coconut chips and usually buy them, but making it at home is easier and can save quite a lot of money in the long run. Thanks for great tips 🙂

  4. Claudia Lamascolo says:

    I love toasted coconut there are so many uses for it and thanks for this easy instructions its been a long time since I made it.

  5. I prefer the stove top method as it is quicker for me but it’s been ages since I toasted coconut. And it’s so delicious!

  6. Great tips here. I love toasted coconut on my granola – especially with some chocolate chips.

  7. Jenni LeBaron says:

    What a great guide. We love adding toasted coconut to parfaits!

  8. Sara Welch says:

    This was such a unique and unexpected recipe! Turned out quick, easy and delicious; definitely a new favorite way to enjoy coconut!

  9. These tips helped me so much. Now, my coconut is always toasted to perfection thanks to you.

  10. I love toasted coconut and add it to everything! Usually, buy it toasted and didn’t know it was this easy to make! Thanks so much for this recipe!

  11. This was such a helpful guide to toasting coconut shavings at home! Usually I just buy the pre-toasted kind but I thought the homemade version was much more flavorful!