Coconut Sugar Cookies Recipe

If you’re craving a cookie that’s delightfully chewy, subtly sweet, and bursting with tropical vibes, these Coconut Sugar Cookies are about to become your new go-to. The unique richness of coconut sugar paired with real shredded coconut gives each bite a warm caramel-like flavor and a perfect texture that dances between soft and slightly crisp. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon treat or prepping for a festive gathering, these cookies are irresistibly charming and simple enough to whip up any day of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Coconut Sugar Cookies lies in their straightforward ingredients, each playing a vital role in crafting their delightful texture and flavor. From the creamy butter to the naturally sweet coconut sugar, every component is essential for achieving that perfect balance.

• Unsalted butter (1 cup / 226g): Softened butter brings rich creaminess and helps create those tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookies.
• Coconut sugar (¾ cup / 150g): This natural sweetener adds a subtle caramel flavor and beautiful golden color.
• Large egg (1): Acts as a binder, adding structure and moisture to the dough.
• Pure vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
• All-purpose flour (2¼ cups / 280g): The sturdy base that creates the cookie’s soft yet sturdy structure.
• Baking soda (½ tsp): Helps the cookies rise just right, giving them a light texture.
• Salt (¼ tsp): Balances sweetness and deepens flavor.
• Unsweetened shredded coconut (1 cup / 80g, divided): Offers that signature chew and a tropical zing, part of it mixed into the dough and part used to coat the cookies.
• Optional coconut milk (1–2 tbsp): Adds a touch of moisture if your dough feels dry, keeping cookies soft.

How to Make Coconut Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Cream Butter and Coconut Sugar

Begin by beating the softened unsalted butter and coconut sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is key to incorporating air, giving your cookies a tender crumb with a delicate rise.

Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and well combined. These ingredients add moisture and deepen the cookie’s rich flavor profile.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Adding these dry ingredients gradually to the wet mixture ensures a smooth dough without overmixing, which keeps the cookies soft.

Step 4: Stir in Shredded Coconut

Fold in three-quarters of a cup of shredded coconut to the dough, introducing bursts of chewy texture and enhancing the coconut flavor. If your dough feels a bit too stiff, gently stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons of coconut milk to loosen it just right.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover your dough and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This resting period helps flavors meld and controls spreading in the oven, but you can also refrigerate it for up to 2 days if you want to prepare ahead.

Step 6: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheets

When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to keep the cookies from sticking and to ensure even cooking.

Step 7: Shape and Coat the Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough, then roll each one in the remaining ¼ cup of shredded coconut to coat them fully. This coating adds a lovely toasted coconut crunch and makes these cookies visually irresistible.

Step 8: Arrange and Flatten

Place the cookies on the baking sheets about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Gently flatten each cookie with your palm or a glass to help them bake evenly and achieve that classic sugar cookie shape.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are golden but the centers remain soft. This oven time gives you cookies with a delightful contrast between a slightly crisp edge and a tender center.

Step 10: Cool Completely

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes first, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step prevents breakage and lets the texture set perfectly.

How to Serve Coconut Sugar Cookies

Garnishes

To elevate your Coconut Sugar Cookies, consider sprinkling a bit of toasted shredded coconut or a light drizzle of melted dark chocolate on top. A pinch of flaky sea salt can balance the sweetness beautifully if you’re feeling adventurous.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of hot tea, fresh coffee, or even a chilled glass of coconut milk for an all-around tropical experience that complements their flavor and texture.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your cookies on a rustic wooden board garnished with fresh tropical fruits like mango slices or pineapple chunks. For a party, stack them in a clear jar layered with coconut flakes and tied with twine for a charming gift idea.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Coconut Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This will preserve their softness and prevent them from drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze the dough or the baked cookies. For dough, shape into balls, freeze on a baking tray, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking. Baked cookies freeze well too—store them in a sealed container with parchment paper between layers.

Reheating

Warm your cookies in a low oven (about 300°F) for 5 minutes to refresh their soft texture, or microwave briefly for a few seconds—just be careful not to overheat and dry them out.

FAQs

Can I substitute regular sugar for coconut sugar?

Yes, but coconut sugar gives these cookies their signature caramel-like flavor and color, so using regular sugar will make them sweeter and less complex in taste.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling is highly recommended as it helps control spreading and deepens the flavors, but if you’re short on time, you can bake immediately; your cookies may be slightly thinner.

Can I use sweetened shredded coconut?

Using unsweetened shredded coconut is best to keep the sweetness balanced and avoid overly sweet cookies, but if you prefer sweeter bites, feel free to experiment.

What if my dough is too crumbly?

Adding a tablespoon or two of coconut milk will add moisture and help bind the dough better. Mix gently until it comes together.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free, but you can try substituting with a gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version, keeping in mind texture changes.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly warm and comforting about baking and sharing a batch of Coconut Sugar Cookies. Their simple ingredients come together to create a treat that feels both nostalgic and a little exotic. Give this recipe a try—you might just find these cookies becoming a beloved favorite in your home, perfect for everyday moments or special celebrations.

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