Bolivian Recipes: Cocadas / Coquitos with Condensed Milk

Cocadas are a traditional Bolivian dessert and are sold, among other places, at the Alasitas market, a traditional miniature market that starts every year on January 24 in the city of La Paz.

• 200 g coconut flakes 
• 1/2 can of condensed milk (approx. 200 g) 

• 1 baking tray with baking paper  
• 1 whole egg

• 1. Mix the coconut flakes with the condensed milk. Cocadas are a typical sweet pastry or coconut treat that is served in several Latin American countries. In Bolivia, they are traditionally baked during the Alasitas festival. 
• 2. Mix very well so that the coconut flakes and the condensed milk are combined. Cocadas or Coquitos can also be made with egg whites. However, with condensed milk, it is very easy and quick to prepare a dessert at home. 
• 3. Now add the whole egg 
• 4. Mix again to combine everything. 
• 5. Let it sit for a few minutes 
• 6. In the meantime, preheat the oven to 180 degrees. 
• 7. Shape the cocadas with a spoon.
  

• 8. We can also help ourselves with clean hands by moistening our fingers with water. The coconut cookies are also called coconut biscuits, and in some countries, color, dried fruits, and almonds are added.
• 9. Moisten your fingers a little to shape the tips of the coconut cookies. 
• Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown. 
• 11. Let cool before serving after baking. During the traditional Alasitas fair, the Cocadas are served in paper bags made by the vendors.