Milky Coconut Biscuits: A Sweet, Buttery Delight
Indulge in the tropical bliss of these Milky Coconut Biscuits, where buttery, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread meets a luscious, creamy coconut filling. These delightful treats combine the delicate crunch of homemade biscuits with the rich sweetness of condensed milk and the nutty, aromatic flavor of desiccated coconut. Perfect for afternoon tea, holiday cookie trays, or as a thoughtful homemade gift, these biscuits are as easy to make as they are irresistible. With an optional sprinkle of toasted coconut for extra flair, this recipe will transport you to a sunny island paradise with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Milky Coconut Biscuits are a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. The buttery biscuit base, made with just three pantry staples, provides a tender, crumbly texture that perfectly complements the creamy, coconut-infused filling. The hint of vanilla adds warmth, while the optional toasted coconut topping brings a touch of elegance and crunch. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, these biscuits are sure to impress with their delicate balance of flavors and textures. Plus, they’re versatile—enjoy them as a standalone treat or pair them with your favorite hot beverage.
Ingredients (Makes approximately 12-15 sandwiched biscuits)
For the Biscuits:
- ½ cup (65g) self-raising flour (sifted for a lighter texture)
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature (use high-quality butter for the best flavor)
- ½ cup (60g) icing sugar (sifted to avoid lumps)
For the Creamy Coconut Filling:
- ½ cup (120ml) sweetened condensed milk (for a rich, velvety sweetness)
- ¼ cup (20g) desiccated coconut (finely shredded for a smooth filling)
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for a warm, aromatic note)
For Decoration (Optional):
- ¼ cup desiccated coconut, lightly toasted (for a golden, nutty garnish)
- Extra icing sugar, for dusting (optional, for a snowy, elegant finish)
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer (optional, for creaming butter and sugar)
- Sifter or fine mesh sieve (for flour and icing sugar)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Rolling pin (optional, for even dough thickness)
- Round cookie cutter (2-inch/5cm diameter, or your preferred shape)
- Small saucepan or skillet (for toasting coconut, if using)
- Spatula or offset spatula (for spreading filling)
- Cooling rack
Instructions
- Prepare the Biscuit Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and sifted icing sugar. Using a wooden spoon, hand mixer, or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream the butter and sugar together until light, fluffy, and pale in color, about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for creating a tender, airy biscuit. Gradually add the sifted self-raising flour, mixing gently until just combined to form a soft, cohesive dough. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tougher biscuits. If the dough feels too sticky, wrap it in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to make it easier to handle. - Shape the Biscuits
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼-inch (6mm) thickness. If you prefer a more rustic approach, you can skip rolling and shape the dough into small balls, flattening them slightly with your palm. Use a 2-inch round cookie cutter (or any shape you like) to cut out the biscuits, re-rolling any scraps as needed. Place the biscuits on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart, as they will spread slightly during baking. - Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the biscuits in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The biscuits should remain pale in the center for a soft, tender texture. Keep a close eye to avoid overbaking, as they firm up as they cool. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the biscuits cool on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. - Prepare the Coconut Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, desiccated coconut, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. The filling should be thick yet spreadable, with a creamy texture and a pronounced coconut flavor. If the filling feels too thick, you can warm it slightly (in a microwave for 10 seconds or over a double boiler) to make it easier to spread. Set aside until the biscuits are fully cooled. - Assemble the Biscuits
Once the biscuits are completely cool, pair them up by size. Spread about 1 teaspoon of the coconut filling onto the flat side of one biscuit, then gently press another biscuit on top to create a sandwich. Use a small spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the filling evenly, ensuring it reaches the edges for a beautiful presentation. Repeat with the remaining biscuits and filling. - Add the Finishing Touches (Optional)
For an extra touch of elegance, lightly toast the additional desiccated coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Let it cool completely before using. Sprinkle or gently press the toasted coconut onto the exposed filling along the edges of the sandwiched biscuits, or roll the sides in the coconut for a decorative effect. For a final flourish, dust the tops lightly with icing sugar for a delicate, snowy appearance.
Serving Suggestions
These Milky Coconut Biscuits are a delightful treat on their own, perfect for savoring with a cup of tea, coffee, or a frothy cappuccino. Their sweet, tropical flavor pairs beautifully with a chilled glass of coconut water or a fruity iced tea for a refreshing contrast. For a dessert platter, serve them alongside other bite-sized treats like lemon tarts or chocolate truffles. They also make a charming addition to gift baskets or cookie boxes for holidays, birthdays, or special occasions—just pack them in an airtight tin with parchment paper between layers to keep them fresh.
Tips for Success
- Butter Temperature: Ensure the butter is softened but not melted. It should be pliable enough to cream easily but still hold its shape. If it’s too warm, the biscuits may spread excessively during baking.
- Sift for Smoothness: Sifting the flour and icing sugar removes lumps and aerates the ingredients, resulting in a lighter, more tender biscuit.
- Even Thickness: Roll the dough evenly to ensure uniform baking. If you don’t have a rolling pin, press the dough flat with your hands or use a flat-bottomed glass.
- Toasting Coconut: Watch the coconut closely while toasting, as it can burn quickly. Stir continuously and remove from heat as soon as it turns golden.
- Make Ahead: The biscuit dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking. The filling can also be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Variations to Try
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark or white chocolate and drizzle it over the assembled biscuits for a decadent twist.
- Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of finely grated lemon or orange zest to the filling for a bright, citrusy note that complements the coconut.
- Nutty Crunch: Mix finely chopped toasted almonds or macadamia nuts into the filling for added texture.
- Spiced Biscuits: Incorporate a pinch of ground cinnamon or cardamom into the dough for a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute self-raising flour with a gluten-free self-raising flour blend, ensuring it’s suitable for baking.
Storage and Reheating
Store the assembled biscuits in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to keep the filling fresh. If refrigerated, let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to restore their soft, buttery texture. For longer storage, freeze the unfilled biscuits in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before adding the filling and assembling.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per sandwiched biscuit)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 12g
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used.
Prep and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 sandwiched biscuits
Final Thoughts
These Milky Coconut Biscuits are a delightful fusion of buttery simplicity and tropical indulgence, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. The contrast of the crisp, golden biscuits with the creamy, coconutty filling creates a memorable bite that’s both comforting and exotic. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon at home or sharing them with loved ones, these biscuits are sure to bring smiles and satisfy sweet cravings. Try this recipe today, and let the flavors of coconut and vanilla transport you to a tropical paradise!
