Easy & Delicious Coconut Cookies Recipe – Soft, Chewy, and Irresistible!

Coconut cookies are a must-try treat if you’re a fan of sweet, chewy, and delightfully crunchy cookies. These cookies bring the tropical richness of coconut into a simple yet irresistible dessert that pairs perfectly with tea, coffee, or a glass of milk. Whether you prefer them soft and chewy or crisp and golden, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to bake the best coconut cookies.

Why You’ll Love Coconut Cookies

• Tropical Flavor: The natural sweetness and slight nuttiness of coconut make these cookies unique.
• Simple Ingredients: Most coconut cookie recipes require pantry staples like flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and shredded coconut.
• Versatile: They can be made soft, crispy, or gluten-free with simple modifications.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s for an afternoon snack, a holiday treat, or a bake sale, coconut cookies are always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make classic coconut cookies, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (240g)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (170g)
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar (110g)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cups shredded sweetened coconut (150g)

For variations, you can add:

• 1/2 cup chocolate chips for a chocolate-coconut twist
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts for extra crunch
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon for a spiced flavor
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract for a nutty aroma

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Set aside.

3. Cream Butter & Sugar

In a separate large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Proper creaming ensures a soft and tender cookie texture.

4. Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. If using almond extract, add it at this stage to enhance the coconut flavor.

5. Combine Everything

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies. Then, fold in the shredded coconut (and any optional add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts) until evenly distributed.

6. Shape & Bake

Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Flatten slightly with your fingers or the back of a spoon to help them bake evenly. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the centers are set.

7. Cool & Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows them to firm up and develop their best texture.

Tips for the Best Coconut Cookies

• Use fresh coconut for the best flavor. If using desiccated coconut, make sure it’s not too dry—rehydrate it slightly if needed.
• Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking if you want thicker cookies with a more pronounced chewiness.
• Adjust sugar levels depending on whether you’re using sweetened or unsweetened coconut.
• Store properly in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Use room temperature ingredients to ensure a smooth dough and even baking.
• Don’t overbake—the cookies will continue to set as they cool, so take them out when the edges turn golden.
• Make them extra special by drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for a decadent touch.

Coconut cookies are a delightful way to enjoy the rich, tropical flavors of coconut in a simple, homemade treat. Whether you keep them classic or experiment with variations, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. Give this recipe a try and let us know how your batch turns out!

Happy Baking