Coconut tops and almond cube

It sounds like you’re interested in Coconut Tops and Almond Cubes, two delicious sweet treats! I’ll give you a recipe for both, so you can try making them at home.

Coconut Tops:

These are chewy coconut macaroons, often dipped in chocolate or enjoyed on their own.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups shredded coconut (unsweetened)
• 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 1 large egg white
• Pinch of salt
• 1/2 cup dark or milk chocolate chips (optional, for dipping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the Coconut Mixture:
   In a bowl, mix the shredded coconut, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using).

3. Whip the Egg White:
   In a separate bowl, beat the egg white with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form (you can use a hand mixer or stand mixer). This will help give the coconut tops structure and lightness.

4. Combine and Shape:
   Gently fold the whipped egg white into the coconut mixture until well combined. Using your hands or a spoon, scoop out small portions of the mixture and shape them into little mounds on the baking sheet.

5. Bake:
   Bake the coconut mounds in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they turn golden brown.

6. Optional Chocolate Dip:
   If you’d like, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler. Dip the bottoms of the baked coconut tops into the melted chocolate and set them back on the parchment paper to cool.

7. Let Cool:
   Let the coconut tops cool completely before serving.

Almond Cubes:

Almond cubes are typically a combination of almond and sweetened condensed milk, set into a firm, sweet square.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup almonds, chopped or slivered
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional for more almond flavor)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded coconut (optional for texture)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mixture:
   In a bowl, combine the chopped almonds, powdered sugar, and shredded coconut (if using).

2. Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk:
   Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and almond extract (if using) to form a thick dough-like mixture.

3. Press into a Pan:
   Line a small square or rectangular baking pan (about 8×8 inches) with parchment paper. Press the almond mixture into the pan evenly.

4. Chill:
   Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until the mixture is firm and set.

5. Cut into Cubes:
   Once chilled and firm, remove from the pan and cut into small cubes or squares.

6. Serve:
   Serve the almond cubes chilled, and enjoy!

These two treats are great for any occasion—whether you’re craving something sweet or looking for homemade gifts. Enjoy!