Cezerye (Turkish Carrot and Walnut Confection)

Instructions

1. Put the grated carrots, sugar and 120 ml of the water in a wide heavy pan over medium heat and cook uncovered about 30 minutes, stirring often, until the liquid has mostly evaporated.
2. Add the remaining 120 ml water and cook another 30 minutes, stirring constantly toward the end, until the carrots are soft and the mixture is a thick, sticky paste.
3. Mash the paste with the back of a spoon until fairly smooth, stir in the cinnamon and walnuts, and cook 5 minutes more.
4. Press the paste into a parchment-lined small tray, about 1/2 inch (1.5 cm) thick.
5. Chill at least 2 hours until firm.
6. Cut into squares or roll into small balls and coat each piece in the desiccated coconut.