Quick & Easy Bukayo Recipe
I. Introduction
Sweet grated coconut candy from Cebu—chewy, milky, and caramelized to perfection. This Quick & Easy Bukayo Recipe creates the beloved Filipino coconut candy with simple ingredients and minimal equipment.
II. Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh grated mature coconut (niyog)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 tsp salt
III. Equipment
- Heavy-bottomed pan
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Candy thermometer (optional)
- Spatula
IV. Instructions
- Combine sugar, water, and salt in a heavy-bottomed pan.
- Heat over medium-low heat without stirring until sugar dissolves and mixture turns golden.
- Add grated coconut and stir continuously to prevent burning.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and glossy.
- Test readiness by dropping a small amount in cold water—it should form a soft ball.
- Remove from heat and continue stirring for 2-3 minutes until slightly cooled.
- Shape into small balls or bars while still warm but workable.
- Roll in extra grated coconut if desired.
- Let cool completely before storing.
V. Tips
Use fresh mature coconut for best texture; stir constantly to prevent burning. The key to good bukayo is patience and constant stirring. Don’t rush the process or increase the heat too much, as this can cause the sugar to burn. If you don’t have fresh coconut, you can use unsweetened dried coconut flakes, but the texture and flavor will be slightly different. Work quickly when shaping as the mixture firms up rapidly.
VI. Serving
As a sweet merienda or snack. This traditional candy is perfect with coffee or tea during afternoon break. The chewy, sweet coconut flavor makes it a beloved treat at any time of day. It’s also a popular pasalubong (souvenir) from Cebu.
VII. Storage
Keeps 1-2 weeks in an airtight container at room temperature. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The bukayo will firm up as it cools completely. If it becomes too hard, you can soften it by warming it briefly. Avoid refrigeration as it can cause condensation that affects the texture.
