Qumbe east african coconut candy –Looking for a delightful treat that combines the richness of coconut with a touch of sweetness? You’re in the right place! Today, we’re diving into the world of Qumbe, a traditional East African coconut candy that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and bring a taste of the tropics to your kitchen. This simple yet delicious recipe will make it easy for you to enjoy a homemade version of this delightful snack.
Qumbe (East African Coconut Candy)
Qumbe is not just any candy; it’s a delectable combination of fresh coconut, sugar, and just the right amount of flavor. This treat is cherished in many East African cultures and is perfect for sharing with family or friends. Let’s jump into the ingredients and whip up this delightful candy!

Ingredients:
- 2 cups of grated fresh coconut
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1/4 cup of water
- 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon of cardamom powder (optional)
- 1/4 cup of desiccated coconut for rolling
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Add the grated fresh coconut to the saucepan. If you’d like to enhance the flavor, mix in the vanilla extract and cardamom powder at this stage.
- Cook the mixture on low to medium heat, continuously stirring until it thickens and begins to pull away from the sides of the saucepan. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
- Once the mixture has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool for about 10-15 minutes.
- While the mixture is still warm, scoop out small portions and roll them into balls. Then, roll the balls in desiccated coconut to give them a delightful finish.
- Place your Qumbe candies on a plate lined with parchment paper and allow them to cool completely before serving.
There you have it! A simple yet scrumptious recipe for Qumbe that you can easily make at home. These little bites of coconut heaven are perfect for any occasion or simply to enjoy as a sweet snack. So gather your ingredients and treat yourself and your loved ones to the joy of Qumbe!