While India is falling in love with monk fruit, there’s one fruit that the country has had a love affair with for centuries, from the southern tip to the northern. Whether in summer, winter or the festive season, coconut is one of the most versatile ingredients used in abundance in almost every Indian household.

You might wonder, is a coconut really a nut? The truth is, it depends on the criteria you use. It could be classified as a nut, a fruit or a seed, but in the culinary world, it is usually seen as a fruit. They add a sweet, nutty, even tropical flavour to food.

Are coconuts actually healthy, though? The short answer? Yes. Coconuts are regarded as a source of healthy fat. The meat contains protein and fiber, as well as some essential minerals such as iron, manganese, copper and magnesium. But, the moment you add sugar in any form to all that goodness, are you really getting the best out of your coconut? It’s a little counter-productive, isn’t it? Thankfully, there’s a healthier, tastier option. With zero calories, zero net carbs and zero aftertaste, Lakanto Monkfruit Sweeteners are the perfect companion to bring the sweetness in your coconut desserts this festive season.

Coconut can be used in a making of a smorgasbord of dishes, especially desserts. Also, as any Indian knows, festive season every year marks the return of all the best desserts made with the tropical fruit.

So, what delicious desserts can you whip up with coconut and Lakanto this festive season?

Coconut Kheer

Fragrant basmati rice cooked with coconut milk and plant-based cream and infused with saffron, nutmeg and cardamom. It’s often garnished with raisins and assorted dried fruits.

Coconut Crepes

Also known as Patishapta, the crepes are a seasonal homemade Bengali sweet) prepared especially during winter. Soft crepes filled with melt in mouth coconut-sweet-mawa filling, these are so-very-addictive.

Coconut Barfi

A traditional Indian Sweet made with coconut, sweetener, milk, cardamoms and sometimes nuts.

Coconut Laddoo

With close to a dozen variations, these are a popular festive treat made traditionally with coconut and a sweetener, lightly scented with ground cardamom.

Coconut Modak

A sweet Indian dumpling popular in many Indian states and cultures. Check out how to make it with Lakanto on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/rni_gea4dgM

This is by no means an exhaustive list of the best sweets that coconut can be used to make, but it’s a good start. No matter what delights you’re about to experience this Festive season, Lakanto Monkfruit Sweeteners can help end hesitation so you can dive in and truly celebrate it with the best of festive sweets across the country.