Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Coconut Barfi is easy to make, yet so flavorful, capturing the essence of Indian sweets from your childhood. With just a few basic ingredients like coconut, milk, sugar, and ghee, you can create a melt-in-your-mouth treat that is both satisfying and comforting. The optional touch of pink food coloring gives the barfi a playful, traditional look. Whether you’re serving it at a special occasion or enjoying it on a cozy day, this barfi will bring back sweet memories and create new ones for years to come.
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon ghee
- 2 cups (200g) dried desiccated coconut
- 1 cup (240ml) milk
- 1 cup (200g) sugar
- 4-5 drops pink food color (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Begin by greasing a square or rectangular tray with a little ghee to prevent the barfi from sticking.
- In a non-stick pan, heat 1 teaspoon of ghee over medium heat.
- Once the ghee is melted, add the dried desiccated coconut and sauté it for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the coconut to lightly toast and become aromatic.
- Pour in the milk and mix well. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat until the milk is absorbed by the coconut and the mixture thickens (around 5-7 minutes).
- Add sugar to the pan, stirring continuously. Let the mixture cook until the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture thickens further.
- If using pink food coloring, add 4-5 drops and stir well until you achieve the desired color.
- Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the mixture starts to come together and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- Pour the mixture into the greased tray and spread it evenly using a spatula.
- Allow the barfi to cool for about 30 minutes to 1 hour. Once set, cut it into square or diamond-shaped pieces.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12-15 pieces
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Variations
- With Nuts: Add chopped cashews, almonds, or pistachios for a crunchy texture in the barfi.
- With Cardamom: For an aromatic twist, you can add ground cardamom to the mixture while cooking.
- Coconut Milk Version: Substitute regular milk with coconut milk for a more intense coconut flavor.
- Sugar-Free Version: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or jaggery if you prefer a healthier option.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store Coconut Barfi in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. If you live in a hot climate, you can store it in the refrigerator to prevent it from becoming too soft.
- Reheating: Coconut Barfi is best enjoyed at room temperature. It does not require reheating but can be slightly softened by placing it in the microwave for 5-10 seconds.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh coconut instead of desiccated coconut?
Yes, you can use fresh coconut. However, desiccated coconut has a longer shelf life and gives a finer texture to the barfi.
2. Can I make Coconut Barfi without ghee?
While ghee adds a rich flavor to the barfi, you can replace it with a neutral oil like vegetable oil if needed.
3. Can I skip the food coloring?
Yes, the food coloring is completely optional and is mainly used for aesthetic purposes. The barfi will taste just as delicious without it.
4. Can I use condensed milk for a creamier texture?
Yes, using condensed milk will give the barfi a creamier texture and a slightly sweeter taste.
5. How do I know when the barfi is ready to set?
When the mixture starts to pull away from the sides of the pan and becomes thick, it’s time to transfer it to the tray to set.
6. Can I freeze Coconut Barfi?
Yes, Coconut Barfi can be frozen for up to a month. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container.
7. How can I make the barfi more flavorful?
You can add a pinch of cardamom powder or even a splash of rose water to enhance the flavor of the Coconut Barfi.
8. What other toppings can I add to Coconut Barfi?
You can garnish the Coconut Barfi with slivered almonds, pistachios, or even edible silver foil (chandi ka vark) for a more festive look.
9. Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for white sugar to give the barfi a caramel-like flavor and a darker color.
10. How do I make the barfi less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sugar and adjust it to your taste. You can also use a natural sweetener like honey or jaggery.
Conclusion
Coconut Barfi, Bachpan Waali, is a simple, delicious, and nostalgic treat that will take you back to your childhood. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, it’s the perfect sweet to share with family and friends. The soft, chewy texture of this barfi combined with the rich taste of coconut, milk, and sugar is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you enjoy it for festivals, celebrations, or simply as a sweet snack, this Coconut Barfi will always remind you of the warmth and joy of childhood treats.
PrintCoconut Barfi
Coconut Barfi, or “Bachpan Waali,” is a nostalgic Indian dessert made with desiccated coconut, milk, sugar, and ghee. This chewy, aromatic sweet brings back fond childhood memories and is perfect for festivals, celebrations, or anytime you’re craving a delicious treat.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Indian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 teaspoon ghee
2 cups (200g) dried desiccated coconut
1 cup (240ml) milk
1 cup (200g) sugar
4–5 drops pink food color (optional)
Instructions
-
Grease a square or rectangular tray with ghee to prevent sticking.
-
In a non-stick pan, heat ghee over medium heat.
-
Add the desiccated coconut and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes aromatic.
-
Pour in the milk and stir. Simmer on low heat until the milk is absorbed and the mixture thickens (5-7 minutes).
-
Add sugar, stirring constantly. Cook until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens further.
-
If using food coloring, add pink food color and mix well until the desired color is achieved.
-
Continue to cook for 5-7 more minutes until the mixture pulls away from the sides of the pan.
-
Pour the mixture into the greased tray and spread evenly using a spatula.
-
Allow the barfi to cool for 30 minutes to 1 hour, then cut into square or diamond-shaped pieces.
Notes
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 4-5 days. If in a hot climate, refrigerate to prevent it from becoming too soft.
Reheating: Best enjoyed at room temperature, but can be softened by microwaving for 5-10 seconds.
Variations: Add chopped nuts, cardamom, or use coconut milk for a richer flavor.