How to prepare Venezuelan coconut kisses in Spain?

The Venezuelan coconut kisses are one of those traditional sweets that transport us directly to our homeland. 

This simple, yet full-flavoured dessert is a favourite in the family picnics, school celebrations and get-togethers with friends in Venezuela. With their smooth texture and irresistible coconut scent, the coconut kisses are a sweet memory that many Venezuelans miss living abroad.

If you are in Spain and you've been wondering how you can recreate this recipe at home, you've come to the right place! 

Although finding some ingredients can be a challenge, with a little creativity and a few tips, it's entirely possible to prepare some coconut kisses as delicious as the ones we enjoyed in Venezuela. 

This article will guide you step-by-step through the recipe, help you to locate the products needed in Spain and give you some tips on how to adapt the recipe to your new environment.

What are Venezuelan coconut kisses?

The Venezuelan coconut kisses are a traditional dessert which stands out for its simplicity, sweetness and that characteristic tropical flavour so reminiscent of our land. 

These little delicacies, made to grated coconut and sugar baseThey are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a golden touch that makes them irresistible.

At Venezuela, the coconut kisses are a classic in bakeries, kiosks and even street vendors selling homemade sweets. They have become a tradition that accompanies afternoon coffee, family snacks or school celebrations. 

They are ideal because they do not require complicated ingredients or advanced techniques, making them perfect for home preparation.

If you have never tried the coconut kisses or if you haven't enjoyed them in a while, this recipe will help you recreate them in your kitchen, with ingredients that you can to be found in SpainGet ready for a journey straight to the heart of the Venezuelan cuisine!

How to prepare them in Spain?

Now that we've remembered this delicious sweet, it's time to get to work and make them at home! 

Don't worry if you are in Spain and you think it's difficult to find the ingredients, because here we explain everything you need and how to adapt with what you have at hand.

What are the necessary ingredients?

• Shredded coconut: Fresh coconut is ideal, but you can also buy dehydrated shredded coconut in supermarkets. Look for options without added sugar if you prefer a more authentic taste.
• Sugar: can be white or brown, depending on your preference.
• Eggs: one or two, depending on the quantity you are going to prepare.
• Vanilla essence: gives a delicious and characteristic touch.
• Cinnamon (optional)if you want to add a little extra flavouring.
• Condensed milk (optional): if you prefer creamier and sweeter kisses.

Step-by-step recipe

• Preheat the oven: set it at 180 °C while you prepare the mixture.
• Prepare the base mixture: In a bowl, mix 2 cups shredded coconut with 1 cup sugar. Add 1 egg and half a teaspoon of vanilla essence. If you want a creamier texture, add a splash of condensed milk.
• Shape the kissesTake small portions of the mixture and form small balls with your hands. If the dough is too dry, add a little more egg or condensed milk until it is manageable.
• Place them on a tray: use baking paper or lightly grease a baking tray to prevent sticking.
• Baking: Bake the kisses in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
• Let them cool: Remove the tray from the oven and allow them to cool completely before moving them. This helps them to keep their shape.

Tips for a perfect result

• Be careful with the baking timeCoconut kisses can brown very quickly, so keep a constant eye on them to make sure they don't burn.
• Ideal texture: if you prefer softer kisses, use fresh coconut instead of desiccated coconut.
• Add a personal touch: You can sprinkle them with icing sugar or even dip them in melted chocolate for a special twist.

See how easy it is? With these steps, you'll not only have some Venezuelan coconut kisses delicious, but also fill your home with that sweet aroma that will transport you to VenezuelaGo ahead and prepare them and surprise your friends and family!

Local alternatives in Spanish supermarkets

If you are unable to find specifically Venezuelan productsIt's OK. Here are some alternatives that you can get in supermarkets such as Mercadona, Carrefour or Lidl:

• Dehydrated grated coconut: is usually in the confectionery section.
• Condensed milk: brands such as La Lechera or Hacendado are perfect.
• Vanilla essence: most supermarkets have generic options that work well.
• Brown or white sugar: You can easily find it in any supermarket.

Where to buy Venezuelan products in Spain?

One of the biggest concerns when preparing traditional recipes outside our country is to find the right ingredients for the recipes. suitable ingredients. But don't worry, because in Spain there are many options to get Venezuelan products or their equivalents. 

Here are a few tips and places where you can find everything you need for your Venezuelan coconut kisses and other antojitos.

Physical shops in Spain

In several Spanish cities there are physical shops specialising in Latin products where you can get Venezuelan ingredients:

• Madrid: at the capital you have a wide variety of options. Places like Casa Nostra Latina or La Despensa Latina are ideal for freshly grated coconut, condensed milk and other Venezuelan products.
• Barcelona: shops such as El Rincón del Sabor Latino o Venezuelan Products Barcelona usually have ingredients specific to our gastronomy.
• Valencia: here you can visit Latino Market Valenciawhere you will also find many products of our land.
• Other cities: In smaller cities, you can look for fresh produce such as coconuts in Asian greengrocers or local markets.

Online shops for Venezuelan products

If you don't have a physical shop near you, don't worry! There are many online shops that ship Venezuelan products to all of Spain. Some reliable options are:

• Mándalo MarketThis online shop offers a wide variety of Venezuelan products, including shredded coconut, condensed milk and other essential ingredients for your recipes. They ship all over the world Spain and Europe. 
• Budare Market: specialising in Venezuelan productsThey offer fresh and authentic ingredients. Although their physical shop is located in OurenseYou can place orders through their website. 
• World FoodsVenezuelan products: this online shop has a section dedicated to Venezuelan products, where you can find everything from flour to traditional sweets. They ship all over the world Spain. 
• MarketzziVenezuelan products, including tequeños, cachitos and Venezuelan sweets as Cocosette. They ship all over the world Spain and EuropeThey also have a physical shop. 
• Caprichos LatinosThis online shop offers a selection of Venezuelan products, ranging from beverages to traditional snacks. They ship nationwide. 
• Amazon Spain: en Amazon you can find a variety of Venezuelan products, including ingredients necessary for your coconut kisses. The advantage is the speed of delivery and the reliability of the platform.

Venezuelan groups and communities in Spain

A great way to source products, and even recipes, is to connect with others Venezuelans in Spain. 

In social networks such as Facebook or WhatsAppthere are groups Venezuelan communities in different cities. They often share information about shops, product recommendations and even offer ingredient swaps. Some groups also sell sweets and other homemade products.

At Curiara we encourage you to try this recipe, so let's get to work! Don't let distance keep you away from those special moments. Prepare this delicious sweet, enjoy the coconut aroma that will fill your kitchen and revive the taste of home wherever you are. 

And remember, if you make this recipe, let us know about your experience or share it with other Venezuelans who are also far away. a taste of Venezuela is always within reach!