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Authentic Coconut Burfi Recipe: Easy Thengai Burfi for Festive Celebrations

by - November 01, 2020

A bowl of coconut burfi placed on a palm spathe, alongside a coconut scraper and a half coconut, capturing the essence of traditional Indian sweets.

Coconut Burfi (Thenga Burfi): A deliciously sweet treat made with fresh coconut, sugar, and cardamom, perfect for festive celebrations. Enjoy the rich, melt-in-mouth texture that's a hit during Diwali!

"Celebrate Kerala Piravi with Delicious Coconut Burfi (Thengai Burfi)"

The Love for Coconut in Kerala

    As a proud Malayali, I can confidently say that my heart belongs to Coconut Burfi. With the rich aroma and taste of freshly grated coconuts, this sweet treat holds a special place in my kitchen. It's no wonder that my children often exclaim, “Thengya (തേങ്ങ)!” when they taste anything coconut-flavoured. For Keralites, coconuts are more than just an ingredient; they’re a way of life!

A Festive Occasion

    Today, on November 1st, we celebrate Kerala Piravi, the birthday of God’s Own Country. In honour of this special day, I’m excited to share a recipe that features the one ingredient synonymous with our land – Coconut (Keram).

 

ദൈവത്തിന്റെ സ്വന്തം നാടിനും നാട്ടുകാര്ക്കും
കേരള പിറവി ആശംസകൾ!!!

🌴✨ Wishing everyone a joyous Kerala Piravi Day! ✨🌴

My Heartfelt Wishes to all on this special day as we celebrate the birth of our beloved Kerala.

 

    As we celebrate Kerala Piravi, I want to share a cherished recipe that embodies the spirit of our beautiful land—Coconut Burfi (Thengai Burfi). This sweet treat is a staple in Kerala households, often bringing back fond memories of my neighbour, Santhi Aunty, who perfected the art of making this delightful dessert. The Love for Coconut Burfi

    The first time I tasted Santhi Aunty's Coconut Burfi, I was hooked! Made with just three main ingredients—coconut, sugar, and a hint of cardamom—this traditional sweet is simplicity at its best. In my opinion, no Indian sweet is complete without the aromatic touch of cardamom, though my son may disagree, as he’s not a fan of its flavour!

The Sweet Story of Coconut Burfi: A Melt-in-the-Mouth Delight!

What’s in a Name?

    Did you know that the term "Barf" or "Barfi" means Snow? It’s no wonder these delightful sweets are named so, given their melt-in-the-mouth texture! Coconut Burfi (Thengai Burfi) is a popular Indian sweet that showcases the unique flavour of freshly grated coconut. Whether it’s made with milk, nuts, or fresh fruits, the versatility of burfis is simply remarkable. It seems that Indians have an incredible talent for transforming almost anything into a delectable Burfi, Halwa, Kheer, or Payasam!

Coconut Burfi: A Unique Texture

    While many burfis are known for their melt-in-the-mouth quality, Coconut Burfi offers a different experience. This sweet retains delightful bits of freshly grated coconut, providing a satisfying chew.

Why You’ll Love Coconut Burfi:

  • Quick and Easy: Perfect for beginners and requires minimal ingredients.
  • Foolproof Recipe: Even first-timers can master it without any fuss.
  • Simple Ingredients: Just three main ingredients—coconut, sugar, and a hint of milk. A touch of cardamom elevates the flavour beautifully!

Tip: Want to add a twist? Feel free to add rose essence for that floral aroma! While I chose not to include them in this recipe.  Some variations call for condensed milk and desiccated coconut for added richness.

The Perfect Diwali Sweet

    Coconut Burfi deserves a special spot on your Diwali sweet plate. It’s a popular choice for many households because it’s:

  • Easy to Prepare: Minimal ingredients and time needed.
  • Long-Lasting: It stays fresh for an extended period, making it a great make-ahead option for festive gatherings.

    As you prepare for Diwali, this Coconut Burfi recipe is a must-try. Whether you’re in a hurry or just looking to whip up a few quick delicacies, this recipe is a fantastic choice!

 

Click the link for a variety of Classic Indian Sweets perfect for Diwali Celebration!

    

 Quick Recipe Overview

 Cuisine - Indian

 Recipe Type - Sweet

 Difficulty - Easy

 Yields - 10–12 pieces

 Author - SM  

 

Total Cooking Time

 

Preparation Time - 15 -20 Minutes.

Cooking Time -  20 -30 Minutes.

 

 

If you're short on time, don’t worry! There are also instant versions of Indian Sweets and Savories you can whip up quickly for last-minute celebrations.

 


 
 

 "Crafting the Perfect Coconut Burfi: A Step-by-Step Guide for a

Deliciously Simple Thengai Burfi Recipe"


Close-up view of coconut burfi with a coconut scraper in the background, highlighting the texture and festive presentation of this popular Indian sweet.

Coconut Burfi (Thenga Burfi): Indian sweet made with fresh coconut, sugar, and cardamom, perfect for festive celebrations. Enjoy the rich, melt-in-mouth texture that's a hit during any occasion!

 

Delicious Coconut Burfi Recipe: A Festive Delight!

Indulge in the Sweetness of Tradition

    Coconut Burfi, or Thengai Burfi, is a beloved Indian sweet that brings together the rich taste of freshly grated coconut and a hint of aromatic cardamom. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for festivals like Diwali, family gatherings, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into the simple yet delicious recipe that promises to impress everyone!

Ingredients for Coconut Burfi:

For Coconut Burfi:

  • Grated Coconut: 2 cups (freshly grated is best)
  • Ghee: 1 tablespoon

For Sugar Syrup:

  • Sugar: 1 cup
  • Water: ½ cup (you can use ¼ cup water and ¼ cup milk for extra richness)
  • Cardamom Powder: ½ - ¾ teaspoon

For Greasing the Pan:

  • Ghee: 1 teaspoon

 

Method: How to Make Coconut Burfi

  • Heat the Ghee: Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of ghee in a heavy-bottomed or non-stick pan over a low flame. 
  • Sauté the Coconut: Add 2 cups of freshly grated coconut into the pan. Sauté it on a very low flame for a few minutes until it becomes slightly dry.

     

    Pro Tip: Avoid browning the coconut; the colour should remain unchanged.


  • Prepare the Sugar Syrup: In a separate pan, combine 1 cup of sugar with ½ cup of water and the cardamom powder. Stir to mix.

     

    Pro Tip: For a richer coconut burfi, consider using ¼ cup milk along with ¼ cup water for the sugar syrup!


  • Cook the Sugar Syrup: Cook the sugar mixture on a low flame for approximately 10–12 minutes, stirring continuously, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to thicken slightly.
  • Combine Coconut with Sugar Syrup: Add the sautéed grated coconut to the sugar syrup, cooking on a low flame for another 10–15 minutes, stirring continuously.

     

    Pro Tip: The mixture will begin to thicken and start to leave the sides of the pan, indicating that it’s ready to set!


  • Switch Off the Flame: Once the mixture thickens and moves easily with the spatula, switch off the flame.

     

    Pro Tip: Proper consistency is key; it should be thick enough to hold shape but not dry!


  • Grease the Tray: Grease a tray with 1 teaspoon of ghee where you’ll set the burfi.
  • Pour and Shape: Pour the coconut mixture into the greased tray, spreading it out evenly and levelling it.

 

Pro Tip: Immediately draw lines on top to form squares or diamond shapes for easy cutting later.


  • Cool and Set: Allow the burfi to cool and set for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Once set, gently flip the coconut burfi and cut through the lines you drew earlier.

 

Pro Tip:  The burfi can be stored properly for about 3-4 days at room temperature and up to 7-10 days in the refrigerator. Microwave for a few seconds before serving for that fresh taste!


  • Optional Flavouring: For a delightful twist, consider adding a few drops of rose essence for a fragrant coconut burfi. Add pink food colouring if desired for a visually appealing treat!


A tight close-up of coconut burfi, showcasing its soft, crumbly texture and light colour, making it an irresistible festive treat.

Coconut Burfi (Thenga Burfi): Classic Indian sweet made with fresh coconut, sugar, and cardamom. Enjoy the rich, melt-in-mouth texture.  Perfect for festive Celebrations!


Notes:

  • Using Fresh Coconut: This recipe uses freshly grated coconut for the best flavour. You can substitute ½ cup of fresh coconut with desiccated coconut if desired, but using fresh coconut adds a richer texture to the burfi.

  • Sautéing the Coconut: The initial step of sautéing the coconut ensures that it turns slightly dry without changing colour. This helps remove excess moisture and allows the burfi to set properly.

  • Adjusting Sugar Quantity: You can adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste preference. If you prefer a sweeter dessert, add a little more sugar; if you want it milder, reduce it slightly.

  • Continuous Stirring: It's crucial to stir continuously while cooking the coconut burfi to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. This step helps achieve the perfect consistency.

  • Choosing the Right Pan: Use a heavy-bottomed, well-seasoned kadai or a non-stick pan for the best results. This ensures that the burfi cooks evenly and doesn’t burn.


Wrap Up Your Festive Season with Homemade Coconut Burfi

    There’s nothing quite like the taste of homemade Coconut Burfi to add a touch of tradition to your festive celebrations. This easy, foolproof recipe makes it possible for anyone to whip up a delicious batch, even if you're a beginner in the kitchen. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy a delightful sweet treat that’s perfect for Diwali, or any special occasion.

    The beauty of Coconut Burfi lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can easily customise the recipe by adding flavours like rose essence or garnishing with chopped nuts for an extra crunch. Plus, it keeps well, making it an ideal choice for gifting or sharing with loved ones.

Make your festive menu even more exciting! Try pairing Coconut Burfi with other Indian sweets like:

    These recipes not only complement each other but also make for an irresistible festive spread. Click through to explore more and bring the essence of Indian sweets to your kitchen.

    So, get your apron on and start cooking this delicious Coconut Burfi. Enjoy the richness of tradition and the joy of sharing homemade treats. Don't forget to bookmark this recipe for future celebrations, and share it with friends who'd love to try their hand at making traditional Indian sweets.

    With this classic sweet ready in no time, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the celebrations. Happy cooking!

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