Pan de Coco, much like many other Filipino breads, draws its influence from the Spanish colonial period. Its name literally translates to coconut bread, and that’s for a good reason—the bread is stuffed with a sweetened coconut filling.
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Pan de Coco, Nostalgia in Every Bite
I’ve been eager to bake Pan de Coco ever since starting the Panadera series. This bread holds a special place in my heart. Growing up, visits to my grandma’s house always included a trip to the sari-sari store across the narrow footpath, where we’d grab a handful of pan de coco.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use desiccated coconut?
Absolutely! You can substitute desiccated coconut without any issues. Just keep in mind that dry coconut absorbs more liquid than fresh, so you’ll want to double the milk and sugar to keep the balance right.
Can I skip using tangzhong?
Yes, you can skip it. Just add the tangzhong ingredients back into the dough mixture, and you’re good to go.
Do I have to use toppings?
I used pumpkin seeds and toasted sesame seeds as toppings, but they’re totally optional. I added them for a bit of extra texture, but feel free to skip them if you prefer.