How to Make Coconut Bacon
Make your own baked coconut bacon at home! It's super easy and totally irresistible. This coconut bacon recipe is gluten free and vegan.
Updated by Kathryne Taylor on September 5, 2024
My dear, sweet, coconut bacon skeptics, hear me out. This vegan “bacon” is amazing! It’s crispy, sweet, salty and tastes just like the real deal, so don’t knock it until you try it! I could go on about it, but I think Cookie’s coconut bacon desperation says it all.
Granted, my dog loves kale and ate half a pack of gum when I was at yoga last week, but I’ve honestly never seen her work so hard for crumbs that aren’t meat. (And look at those irresistible fuzzy ears! She kills me.)
I shared coconut bacon last year with my heirloom BLT salad recipe, but this stuff is so good that I decided it needed its own post. You can use it as an accent in any recipe that calls for crumbled bacon—salads, BLTs, you name it.
It’s incredibly easy to make (it’ll take you 15 minutes, max). You can freeze the extra for later, although it’s hard not to eat all of this bacon as it comes out the oven. I dare you to try it!
How to Make Coconut Bacon
Fake bacon that tastes like the real thing. Use it in salads, BLTs, or anywhere else that you would add bacon. This coconut bacon is vegan and gluten free, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari). Recipe yields 3 cups coconut bacon.
Ingredients
- 3 cups large, unsweetened coconut flakes (not regular shredded coconut!)
- 3 tablespoons reduced-sodium tamari (or other soy sauce)
- 2 ½ tablespoons liquid smoke (any flavor, choose your favorite)
- 1 ½ tablespoons maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper (optional).
- Measure the coconut flakes out onto the baking sheet. Drizzle the coconut flakes with tamari, liquid smoke and maple syrup. Mix well. Spread the flakes into an even layer on the parchment paper.
- Bake on the middle rack for 12 to 14 minutes, flipping halfway, until flakes are mostly dry and turning golden on the edges. (Keep an eye on the coconut as it can go from golden brown to deep burnt brown fairly quickly. For softer bacon, you’ll probably only need to bake for 12 minutes. For crispy bacon, aim for 14.) The coconut flakes will further crisp up as they cool.
- Let the coconut bacon cool, then use it immediately or transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Coconut bacon keeps well in the freezer for several months. No need to defrost!
Notes
Recipe originally seen on my heirloom BLT salad (looove that salad!).
Make it gluten free: This dish is gluten free as long as you use gluten-free tamari, which is a variety of soy sauce that is usually (but not always, check the label) gluten free. I always use tamari instead of soy sauce because I prefer the flavor of it!
Where to buy: Look for coconut flakes in the baking aisle or health food section at well-stocked grocery stores. Look for tamari next to the soy sauce in the Asian ingredients aisle. Look for liquid smoke near the barbecue sauce.
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice. See our full nutrition disclosure here.
Just tried it. really tastes like bacon. not thrilled with the hickory flavor from the liquid smoke so will try to find the pecan flavor for my next batch.
Glad it tastes like bacon to you! Hope you like the pecan flavor better.
If you want larger pieces of this you can get a bag of dry coconut slices from your local Indian grocery store. Then you will have thin strips of bacon :-)
I did not know that coconut slices exist! I’ll keep an eye out for them! Thanks, Ravi.
Wow! Coconut bacon really meets a lot of vegan flavor cravings. So glad I found your recipe and easy to follow photos. Great recipe and post!
Oh man, I’ve been buying coconut bacon and didn’t think to make it myself. Can’t wait to try this! I’m sure my dogs will be just as underfoot. (Cookie is adorable).
I can’t look at your dog without smile:) It’s absolutely adorable!!!!
She makes me smile all day long! Thanks, Oxana. :)
Kate – I just made my first batch of coconut bacon, and it is SO addictive! Awesome, awesome recipe. My mom (also a vegetarian) always buys those fake bacon strips and the ingredient list just kills me…definitely going to try to move her over to this alternative :)
I so want to try this, but i can’t find the coconut flakes. I unfortunately live in a more rural area, and no one carries them. Is there any way to make this using fresh coconut, shaved?
Thanks!
Monika
Prince Edward County, Ontario, Canada
UPDATE: I just made this and it turned out great! I couldn’t find the coconut flakes (I live in a rural area), so I just used fresh coconut. I made two batches as an experiment. For the first batch, I shaved the fresh coconut with a veggie peeler into strips and then dehydrated the coconut strips in a dehydrator. For the second batch, I left the coconut strips raw. I marinated both in the marinade and spices and baked as per instructions. Both batches came out great. The first batch (with the dehydrated coconut) came out crispy, as I imagine it would if one used the bought coconut flakes. The second batch, using fresh coconut, came out great as well, but had a softer texture, more like bacon. While both were equally yummy, my husband preferred the batch with fresh coconut, as the texture for him was closer to bacon. As a side note, some of the strips of coconut were thicker, as I had to cut some by hand. These thicker pieces were actually tastier than the ones where I used a veggie peeler. So for next time, I plan on using fresh coconut, and cut the strips by hand, so they are a tad thicker than if using a peeler. Just wanted to post this for those people who are having a hard time finding the coconut flakes. Plus, one fresh coconut makes about 3 cups of product, and only costs a little over a dollar!
Thanks for reporting back, Monika! Your fresh coconut versions sound amazing. Thank you for sharing your results!!!
Hi Kate (And cookie!)
Is there an alternative to liquid smoke? I’ve actually never even heard of this…
But this “bacon” sounds absolutely delicious. I can’t wait to try it! X
Hey Sisley, Bragg’s amino acids might work! You might be surprised to find liquid smoke in your grocery store, though. It’s usually by the barbecue sauce.
Smoked paprika!
OK, my mind is officially blown! I just made this as a Christmas gift for my paleo brother (I’m vegan so it’s fun to make fake bacon for him) AND IT IS SOOOO GOOD – I might have to make another batch for myself. Thank you!!!!
Also, Cookie is absolutely adorable! She looks a little like my crazy Catahoula rescue pup. :)
Awesome! Hope your brother likes the coconut bacon, too. Now I want to make some for my brother who hunts to see his reaction. :) I used to wonder if Cookie is part catahoula, but she’s actually part Australian coolie!
Hey, I just made these, followed the recipe exactly, and after 5 minutes they were burnt to a crisp… My oven thermometer also said it was 330F so I’m baffled! Has this happened to anyone else?
Hmm, Shannon, I’m sorry that happened to you! No, that hasn’t happened to me. Were you using large flakes of coconut instead of tiny coconut pieces?
Made this today and loved it. I need to perfect this somehow because when I took it out at 8 minutes to flip it was starting to burn! Glad I caught it.
Thanks for a tasty addition to my salads and sandwiches!!
I’m glad you caught the bacon before it was too late! Thanks, Lindsay!
ah, Bacon is my downfall… coconut might follow closely behind. I’ve contemplated buying a bag of coconut bacon from whole foods, but this sounds so much more rewarding. I have a question that could throw you, would you have a suggestion for a soy free alternative?
Hey Sherry, I think you could try Bragg’s liquid aminos instead.
Hi :) I just found your site as I was looking for a recipe for coconut bacon after a friend recommended it, and it looks great :) I have what might be a really stupid question….. I bought 2 bags of coconut flakes to try this out – but got already-toasted ones… Will they completely burn instantly, or do you think it will work? :( I can’t believe I didn’t realise – mind was elsewhere!
Hey Claire! I hate it when that happens. I don’t think they will burn instantly since you’re adding liquid. I would just keep an eye on the coconut while it’s in the oven!
I’m simply desperate to try this it looks amazing. Would it work with fresh coconut cut on a mandolin? I live in Japan and it’s a nightmare finding ingredients. Even buying online is a nightmare so I don’t think dried coconut flakes are an option… Please help!
Hey Natalie, I haven’t tried making this with fresh coconut. I believe another commenter had success with fresh coconut, though. You might scan the previous comments for her feedback.
This is epic! Sorry to ask a stupid question, but to use after freezing, do you just allow to defrost at room temperature or do you need to re-heat?
That’s not a stupid question. You can eat it right out of the freezer!
Love your blog and your dog, you’re cute too. This recipe is very, very nice. I make one with thin sliced Tempeh and coconut fat. Haven’t made it in a while, it was gobbled up quickly.
Thanks, Christina!
Wow. I just made a batch of this and I’m pretty amazed at how much it tastes like bacon, especially the crispy rather than chewy pieces. Thanks for sharing!
Right?! Thanks, Dave!
Just made my first batch of this…and all I can say is, it is AMAZING!
This is the perfect substitute for all of my bacon cravings. I have been buying a coconut bacon product at the store, but this is much better! Thank you Kate for this delicious alternative!
Awesome! Thank you, Stephanie!
Can you keep this stored in the pantry or the fridge for any amount of time, or do leftovers need to be frozen right away?
Yes, it’ll do just fine in the pantry/refrigerator for a few days (longer in the fridge), but the best way to preserve the flavor and texture is by storing it in the freezer. It doesn’t require any defrosting, so you can just grab it and use it!
I made this today following the ingredient list and instructions precisely including the use of parchment paper. It turned out great – total cooking time about 11 minutes. We made delicious BLTs – a food I would never have eaten with ‘real’ bacon. Thank-you.
Thank you, Emily! Glad to hear it!
I cannot remember bacon, 50 years since I gave all that up!
I hate liquid smoke so is it fairly decent without, I do have someone who gave it up recently ( about a year or so…pining!). He hates liquid smoke too you see?
And… Staying strictly on the subject….. I have fallen completely in love with that beautiful dog!
OMG, thank you for this recipe. I just had my first “B”LT in over 15 months and it was so delicious.
Yay!
This was delicious! Thank you!!
Yay, thanks Jessica!
I just made this and it is great!
Yay! Thanks, Meredith!
can’t wait to try this! do you think these will hold up in recipes calling for cooked bacon (e.g., a quiche or cookies)? if so, this could be the equivalent of the holy grail!
Hi Vicki! Great question. I *think* it will hold up pretty well!
I had a BLT at a vegan restaurant earlier this week and came looking for a coconut bacon recipe! I’m so happy I found yours! Do you think that coconut aminos would have the same effect for the taste that soy sauce does? (I’m allergic to soy)
Thank you!
Moira
Hi Moira! I bet so! Please let me know if you give it a shot.
I am really impressed with this.. I have been trying to eat more vegan and would like to become a full time vegan and it has been difficult due to my love for dairy products as well as being married to a man who eats nothing but meat. I find that coconut in all forms is the most excellent replacement for dairy however I would of never thought it could replace meat. Especially bacon! Where would I be able to find liquid smoke?
Thanks, Marlena! Liquid Smoke is actually pretty readily available at grocery stores. Look for it near the barbecue sauce.
This turned out so well! I never comment on blogs, but I was just really really happy with this. I’ve eaten about half the pan as is, but I look forward to putting this on salads, sandwiches, & more! Thank you!
Thank you so much, Jada!
Thank you for sharing this recipe! Is there a specific brand of liquid smoke that you use? I bought one from a small chain grocery store, but it has additives like the caramel coloring and molasses. I’m still going to try it but I thought maybe you had as suggestion of a brand that was more natural?
Also, slightly unrelated – the rug in the photos with your pup is so nice. Would you mind sharing where its from? It’s so pretty!
Hi Anni! I used Colgin’s Liquid Smoke. It does have molasses, which is natural and good for you. I wish it didn’t have caramel coloring in it, but it does. Thank you for the rug compliments! It’s a family hand-me-down, originally purchased on eBay.
I love this recipe :) Thank you!
Yay, thanks Julia!
Does it taste at all like coconut or have the texture of shredded coconut? My husband really hates coconut. Interesting recipe!
Hi Kathi! I caught a light hint of coconut in a few bites. It doesn’t have the texture of shredded coconut since you’re using larger coconut flakes.
Hi.
I’ve just tried your recipe and it did not worked. I’m mistified! I’m fairly good in the kitchen.
After 5 minutes, the flakes were already pretty brown and those on the edges had started to turn black. The oven was at 325 fahrenheit as indicated and i put the exact same quantity of ingredients as you said. The flakes seem to be the same size as those on the picture.
Physically, they look relatively the same as yours but the taste isn’t really there. It tastes burntand much more coconuty than bacony. I really don’t know where it went wrong!
Thanks and sorry for my english :) !
Hi Emile, I’m sad your coconut bacon didn’t turn out well. I am not sure how your coconut got so toasted after 5 minutes. Maybe our coconut flakes are made differently, somehow? Are you sure your oven doesn’t run hot? Maybe 300 degrees Fahrenheit would work better for you.
Oddly, I don’t have the bacon fever my vice is coffee, but this looks interesting to try. If it’s good enough for cookie, it must be worth it.
Before I try this recipe, I wanted to know if there’s any distinct coconut undertone to this. I really dislike coconut but would be willing to try this bacon substitute if the sauce and liquid smoke completely mask the fruit’s flavor.
I love coconut but honestly- coconut bacon? really? REALLY!
OMGS so yummy! And so easy to make.
I did not have enough tamari so I used some braggs. Yummy!
The only thing i would advise to others who try this recipe is to use parchment and watch the time. At 10 minutes the ‘bacon’ off the side of parchment was starting to burn. One more minute and perfect crispy cruelty free yumminess! Mahalo nui for this great recipe!
Wow, this stuff is tasty! I was never a huge fan of bacon, so I haven’t really missed having it as a vegetarian. However, this stuff is addictive! Savory, sweet, salty, and just plain yummy. I’ve been snacking on it for a few days now, and can’t wait to try it in a “BLT”.
Wow, Kate! This “bacon” is amazing! Bacon has always been a weakness for me, and is one of the few things I really missed after becoming vegetarian. I’ve previously tried making three different kinds of veggie bacon — one using eggplant, one using tofu, and one making making your own seitan. They were less than spectacular, to be kind. They were also a lot of trouble to make. Your recipe is quick, easy, and absolutely delicious! Thank you so much for the recipe and pictures. I’m looking forward to topping a salad with it, if I don’t eat it all first. Cookie is adorable!
Sorry, forgot to rate it.
I can’t wait to try this! I just want to add to watch the ingredients in the gum you purchase. Half a pack just sent sent my 100 lb lab mix to the er vet over the weekend :/ I think they said it was the xylotol(?) In it? Anyway a dollar pack of gum left me with a $3000 vet bill
Thank you so much for sharing this! I’ve been craving bacon since becoming a vegan. On my way to the store now!
Do you think that I could use lightly toasted unsweetened coconut flakes to make this?
What are the ingredients in liquid smoke? I’m assuming that it’s healthy, but I’ve never tried it before.
Looking forward to making the coconut bacon!
Hi Jane, I used Wright’s All Natural liquid smoke. Ingredients are: water, natural Hickory smoke concentrate.
I purchased it at my local Safeway grocery store in the BBQ aisle. I hope that helps you out.
I was a little skeptical so only made a half batch. Not next time! It was great. One does have to watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn.
Omg love your website and your dog is soooooo cute. He still looks like a puppy lol. Thanks for sharing
Hi Kate,
I LOVE your site and thank you for the delicious recipes and fun pics. :) I made the coconut bacon and have to say it really is delicious! That says a lot coming from a person who thought I could not give up bacon ever. This is my new, healthy alternative. I can’t promise I won’t ever eat it again but health over taste these days. Since I’m the only meat eater in the family it’s always a happy day to find an alternative that my family will enjoy as well as me. Especially when like you we DO NOT do meat alternatives since they are so processed.
My Baconut experience: I followed the recipe but took my “bacon” out of the oven in 10 minutes and it continued to crisp up wonderfully from the residual heat. I don’t know if my oven is off but it was a quick cook like you warned. I followed your recipe verbatim using hickory smoke. I honestly love it as is but may use a little less smoke next time as my husband and daughter felt it was too much for them (they’ve never had meat…ever) and I think this was their first time having something with liquid smoke. I’ve shared your recipe/site with my family and hopefully they will become fans as well.
Thank you again for sharing your craft and your adorable pup. Like so many others, keep the pictures coming.
Does this have to be stored in the freezer? Can it be left out or would it need to be refrigerated?
I made this before and it was amazing but I kept it on the counter in a mason jar for about a week and it seemed fine! About to make another batch right now. Let me know your thoughts on storage :) my freezer is tiny.
It should be fine at room temp for a couple of weeks! I think you’d know if it went bad.
This is so RAD…I went to Amazon and got the smoke liquid…THANK you for this turn on…I can’t wait to make a batch..and experiment…I so appreciate your creative and well-detailed suggestions for ingredients for food choices…My CSA starts up Tuesday…until mid-October…and I just can’t wait to experiment with all the beautiful produce I will receive…Way to go, Kate…AND *LOVE* your pooch…Give ’em a hug for me…Zan
Great recipe. Even the cat thought it was bacon1
Hi Kate, just a quick note to tell you how much I love your site!! The recipes are amazing, your photos are beautiful and I love the way you write. I must admit that my favourite part though is Cookie, I loved the photo of her with the broccoli stem so much, I printed it out and put it on the wall in my office! (Along side photos of my own fur babies too) Keep up the amazing work xx
For those on a budget or who want to make less. The $.99 store has organic coconut smiles that work well also.