Bala Baiana is a Brazilian sweet treat made from sweetened condensed milk, coconut, sugar, and caramel.

The first time I tasted Bala Baiana was with my friend Sarah at a local store. We were browsing through the sweets section when we stumbled upon these enticing candies. Intrigued by their unique flavor and appearance, we decided to give them a try. With just one bite, we were hooked – the chewy texture and sweet taste left us craving more.

After enjoying the Bala Baiana, my friend Sarah shared the recipe with me on Instagram. She knew I loved experimenting in the kitchen, so she thought I’d enjoy making them at home. Excited by the prospect of recreating these delicious treats, I wasted no time in gathering the ingredients and getting started. Following Sarah’s instructions, I mixed, shaped, and coated the candies, eagerly anticipating the final result.

To my delight, the homemade Bala Baiana was just as delicious as the ones we had tried at the store. The process was simple, and the outcome was delightful. Now, whenever I crave these sweet treats, I can easily whip up a batch in my kitchen. Sharing this recipe with you today brings back fond memories of that first taste and the joy of creating something delicious from scratch.

What is Bala Baiana?

Bala Baiana is a Brazilian sweet treat made from sweetened condensed milk, coconut, sugar, and caramel. It is popular for its chewy texture and rich caramel flavor. The name “Bala Baiana” translates to “Bahian candy” in English, referring to its origin in the state of Bahia, Brazil.

How To Make Bala Baiana

Ingredients:

• 1 can of sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tablespoon of margarine or butter
• 100 grams of shredded coconut
• 2 cups of sugar
• 1 cup of water
• 2 tablespoons of white vinegar

Instructions:

Step1:

Begin by preparing the mixture. In a saucepan, combine the margarine, sweetened condensed milk, and shredded coconut. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to pull away from the sides of the pan. Once ready, spread it onto a plate and let it cool in the refrigerator.

Step2:

Once the mixture is cooled, grease your hands with a little margarine and shape it into small balls.

Step3:

Now, make the caramel. In a medium saucepan, mix the sugar, water, and vinegar. Stir well and bring to a boil over medium heat. Let it simmer until it thickens. Avoid stirring but keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Step4:

When the color changes to a light caramel shade, perform a test. Drop a bit of caramel into a glass of cold water. If it makes a “cracking” sound, it’s ready. Alternatively, test by squeezing a small amount between your fingers. If it forms a firm ball without melting, it’s done.

Step5:

Work quickly. Dip each ball into the caramel using a fork, coating it evenly. Let the excess caramel drip off and then place the coated balls onto a greased tray. Repeat until all balls are coated.

Allow the candies to cool and set completely before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Dessert Platter Delight: Arrange Bala Baiana on a dessert platter along with other sweet treats like chocolates, cookies, and fruit slices for a diverse and delightful dessert experience.

Coffee or Tea Pairing: Serve these sweet delights with a cup of hot coffee or tea. The combination of the chewy Bala Baiana and the warm beverage creates a cozy and comforting treat.

Party Favors: Include these candies as part of your party favors. Place them in small, decorative bags or boxes for guests to take home and enjoy as a sweet reminder of the celebration.

Ice Cream Topping: Sprinkle-chopped Bala Baiana over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a unique and delicious topping. The chewiness of the candy adds a delightful contrast to the creamy texture of the ice cream.

Gift Baskets: Create homemade gift baskets by combining Bala Baiana with other sweets, chocolates, and perhaps a personalized note. It makes for a thoughtful and tasty gift for friends and family.

Holiday Treats: Incorporate Bala Baiana into your holiday treats. Whether it’s Christmas, Easter, or another festive occasion, these candies can be a sweet addition to your holiday-themed desserts.

How to Store Bala Baiana

To store Bala Baiana, place the candies in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. Store them at room temperature in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Properly stored, Bala Baiana can last for several weeks, maintaining its flavor and texture. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator as this can cause them to become too hard or sticky. Enjoy them whenever you crave a sweet treat!

Conclusion

Bala Baiana is a delightful sweet treat that is easy to make and enjoyable to share with friends and family. Its combination of creamy condensed milk, coconut, and caramel creates a rich and indulgent flavor that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a dessert spread, Bala Baiana brings a taste of Brazil to any occasion. So next time you’re craving something sweet, why not whip up a batch of these delicious candies and treat yourself to a little taste of paradise?

FAQ

Can I use desiccated coconut instead of shredded coconut in Bala Baiana?

• Yes, you can substitute desiccated coconut for shredded coconut in this recipe. However, keep in mind that desiccated coconut might have a finer texture, so the resulting candies could have a slightly different consistency.

How long does it take for the caramel to reach the right consistency?

• The time it takes for the caramel to thicken and reach the desired consistency can vary, but it usually takes around 15-20 minutes. It’s important to monitor it closely, perform the water test, and be cautious not to let it burn.

Can I store Bala Baiana at room temperature?

• It’s recommended to store Bala Baiana in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain their shape and prevents the caramel from becoming overly sticky.

Can I use brown sugar in the caramel instead of white sugar?

• While white sugar is traditionally used for caramel, you can experiment with brown sugar for a slightly different flavor profile. Just be aware that it may affect the color and taste of the caramel.

How long do Bala Baiana candies stay fresh?

• When stored properly in the refrigerator, Bala Baiana candies can stay fresh for up to a week. However, for the best taste and texture, it’s recommended to consume them within a few days of making.