Can I Substitute Shredded Coconut for Desiccated Coconut?

Coconut adds a wonderful and tropical flavor to many snacks and dishes. There are many types of coconut products you can use. Shredded coconut and desiccated coconut are two common products you will find on shelves in many stores.

Can you use shredded coconut in the place of desiccated coconut?

You can substitute shredded coconut for desiccated coconut.

They are very similar products and can be used interchangeably in many dishes and snacks. You can use shredded coconut if you can’t get a hold of desiccated coconut or are in a pinch and need an easy replacement quickly.

There are also other options you can use as a substitute for desiccated coconut if you don’t have shredded coconut either.

What is shredded coconut?

Shredded coconut is made by shredding fresh coconut meat into thin strips. It’s normally dried afterward. You can purchase sweetened shredded coconut as well as unsweetened.

What do you use it for?

There are many uses for shredded coconut. It’s often used in baked goods like cookies, cakes, muffins, and bread. It’s also a great topper for things like smoothies, yogurts, fruit, granola, cereal, ice cream, and so many other options. It can also be used as a crumb-breading for meats.

Shredded coconut is a great option because it’s vegan, gluten-free, and keto-friendly. 

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What is desiccated coconut?

Desiccated coconut is made by grinding up coconut meat into a fine powder-like consistency. By definition, desiccated means to have all moisture removed. In turn, desiccated coconut will have even less moisture than shredded coconut.

What do you use it for?

It’s used in a lot of similar ways as shredded coconut. You can use it in baked goods like bread, macaroons, and truffles. 

You can also stir the desiccated coconut into smoothies, cereals, and yogurts. 

Desiccated coconut is a popular addition to many Thai and Indian dishes as well. It’s a delicious addition to a stir-fry. 

Can you use shredded coconut as a replacement for desiccated coconut?

Since they are very similar products, you can usually substitute shredded coconut for desiccated coconut. Make sure to pay attention to if your recipe calls for sweetened or unsweetened desiccated coconut and replace it with the same type of shredded coconut.

Depending on the type of recipe you’re making or the way you want to use the shredded coconut, you can also try grinding up the shredded coconut. This will replicate the consistency of desiccated coconut if you don’t have any in your pantry.

Are there other replacements for desiccated coconut?

If you don’t have desiccated coconut or shredded coconut, there are other options you can use as an alternative.

  • You can make your own desiccated coconut by grinding fresh coconut in a food processor and then drying it in the oven.
  • You can use coconut milk powder which will add the coconut flavor with lower fat content.
  • Using coconut extract will provide the tropical flavor in a pinch.
  • If you’re looking for a topper for smoothies, granola, yogurt, or other great snacks, try dried fruits.
  • Ground nuts such as pistachios, pecans, and almonds can be used as a replacement as well.
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Conclusion

Shredded coconut is a great replacement for desiccated coconut. Grind it up to use in stir-fry and baked goods or use it as a topper for your cereal and smoothies!

No matter what you’re using it for, it’s bound to be a delicious addition to your foods. 

There are many different products you can use as a substitute for desiccated coconut, but shredded coconut is one of the best and most similar. 

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