Basic Pan de Coco

Basic Pan de Coco

Introduction

Pan de Coco is a beloved Filipino sweet bread filled with a rich, sweet coconut filling. Soft, slightly sweet, and wonderfully fragrant, this bread is perfect for breakfast, merienda, or an afternoon snack with coffee or tea. Making Pan de Coco at home may seem like a project, but with a little patience, you’ll be rewarded with fluffy, golden buns filled with luscious coconut goodness. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or yourself, this recipe brings a warm, tropical delight straight to your kitchen.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (240 g) bread flour
• ½ cup (120 ml) lukewarm water (110°F / 43°C)
• ¾–1 cup (180–240 ml) water
• ½ cup (50 g) milk powder
• ½ tbsp (6 g) baking powder
• 2½ tsp (7 g) instant yeast
• 2 tsp (8 g) sugar (for yeast activation)
• ½ cup (100 g) sugar
• 1½ tsp bread improver (optional)
• 1½ tsp fine salt
• ½ cup (115 g) lard or margarine/shortening substitute
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) vegetable oil
• 2 extra-large eggs
• Margarine for brushing
• Toasted sesame seeds for topping
• Extra flour for dusting

For the Filling:

• 1 cup (220 g) dark brown sugar
• 2½ cups (565 g) margarine
• 1½ cups (360 ml) water
• 1½ tbsp (22 ml) vanilla extract
• 2½ cups (200 g) desiccated coconut or fresh coconut meat

Directions