Coconut Candy in Maui - A Sweet Hawaiian Treat

The Sweet Taste of Maui: Coconut Candy

The tropical island of Maui is known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and of course - coconuts! Coconuts grow abundantly across the island, and they are incorporated into many classic Hawaiian dishes and treats. One delightful coconut creation is Maui's coconut candy, a melt-in-your-mouth sweet treat made from coconut, sugar, and milk.

The History of Coconut Candy in Maui

Coconuts have long been an integral part of Hawaiian cuisine and culture. In Maui, the harvesting of coconuts and production of coconut-derived foods like coconut candy dates back centuries. Coconut palms were brought to the Hawaiian islands by early Polynesian settlers. Back then, nearly every part of the coconut was utilized - from the meat and milk to the fibrous husks.

Coconut candy as we know it today originated from confections that blended shredded coconut meat or creamy coconut milk with cane sugar. These candies were often shaped into small balls or logs and became popular snack and dessert items. The traditional recipes were passed down over generations and put Maui's abundant supply of coconuts to delicious use.

Where to Find Coconut Candy in Maui

Coconut candy can be found all over Maui, from ABC stores to local farms to the many food trucks and stands dotting the island. However, two places in particular are especially renowned for their coconut candy productions:

• Aunty Sandy's Candy Factory - Located in Wailuku, they offer over 50 flavors of Hawaiian candy, with coconut candy being one of their specialties.
• Coconut Glen's - This long-running family business in Hana makes all their candy with coconut from their own trees. Their macadamia coconut candy is a signature treat.

You can also taste freshly made coconut candy by taking a factory tour at either location. Watching the candy-making process will show you just how simple and natural these sweet coconut confections are.

The Coconut Candy Making Process

While recipes can vary slightly, most traditional coconut candy is crafted using just a few ingredients:

• Shredded coconut meat
• Coconut milk
• Cane sugar
• Butter or cream

The shredded coconut meat is combined with heated coconut milk and sugar, then boiled until it reaches the desired consistency. Butter or cream is also commonly added to enrich the candy. The mixture is stirred frequently to prevent burning.

Once the right texture is achieved, portions of the candy mixture are formed into balls or logs and left to cool and harden. Extra shredded coconut can also be pressed into the outside of the candy to form a crispy coconut coating.

It's this simple preparation that gives the candy its soft, chewy texture and sweet coconut flavor. Preservatives and artificial ingredients are never used in traditional recipes.

Variations of Coconut Candy

While the plain coconut candy is a classic, many Hawaiian candy companies have gotten creative with ingredients to make tempting flavor twists, such as:

• Macadamia coconut - Coconut candy studded with crunchy roasted macadamia nuts.
• Li hing mui coconut - Coconut candy seasoned with li hing mui, a sweet-sour-salty dried plum powder.
• Guava coconut - Coconut candy with pieces of tangy guava fruit mixed in.
• Pineapple coconut - Coconut candy blended with bits of sweet pineapple.
• Mango coconut - Coconut candy infused with tropical mango flavor.
• Kona coffee coconut - Coconut candy with locally-grown Kona coffee for a caffeinated kick.
• Toasted coconut - Coconut candy coated with toasted coconut flakes.

Part of the fun of sampling coconut candy in Maui is getting to try all the creative flavors. However, you can't go wrong with the classic plain coconut candy, which lets the natural sweetness of the coconut shine through.

Where to Buy Coconut Candy to Take Home

One of the best food souvenirs to bring back from Maui is coconut candy. The candies travel well and have a decent shelf life, allowing you to enjoy the Hawaiian flavors at home. Some of the best places to buy coconut candy to take home include:

• ABC stores - These convenience shops all around the island sell pre-packaged candies from various Hawaiian companies.
• Coconut Glen's - They sell custom coconut candy gift boxes perfect for gifts or personal treats.
• Wailuku Coffee Co. - Along with locally-roasted coffee, their stores carry an assortment of Hawaiian candies.
• Mahina Hawaii - This shop in Lahaina creates gift baskets with candies and other Hawaiian food items.
• Maui Swap Meet - Check the baked goods and candy vendors here for deals on bulk coconut candy.

Alternatively, you can ship boxes of candies from Hawaiian websites to have them delivered fresh to your door. The candies make for memorable edible souvenirs from your Maui trip.

Enjoying the Taste of the Islands

Maui's coconut candy encapsulates the flavors of the islands - sweet coconut combined with tropical fruits, nuts, and spices. Beyond the candy's great taste, it represents generations of Hawaiian culture and heritage. Next time you're visiting Maui, make sure to sample this iconic island treat!

FAQs

What are the main ingredients in traditional coconut candy?

The main ingredients are shredded coconut meat, coconut milk, cane sugar, and sometimes butter or cream.

Where can I buy coconut candy to take home from Maui?

You can buy pre-packaged coconut candy at ABC stores, Coconut Glen's, Wailuku Coffee Co., and souvenir gift shops. Shipping Hawaiian coconut candy from online retailers is also an option.

What are some popular flavors of coconut candy besides original?

Some flavors include macadamia nut, li hing mui, guava, pineapple, mango, Kona coffee, and toasted coconut.

How long does coconut candy last?

Coconut candy has a decent shelf life of a few weeks when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Refrigeration can extend the life further.

Is coconut candy gluten-free?

Yes, traditional coconut candy contains no gluten ingredients, so it is considered gluten-free.