Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft and Chewy Coconut Cookies are simple to make and offer a delightful coconut flavor that’s both rich and comforting. With just a few basic ingredients and a quick baking time, you can have a batch of cookies ready in under 30 minutes. The coconut gives these cookies a unique texture, while the light brown sugar adds a touch of caramel sweetness. Perfect for those who love a chewy, melt-in-your-mouth cookie, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients

½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
¾ cup light brown sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup sweetened shredded coconut (toasted, optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cream butter and sugar together; then add the egg and vanilla and stir to combine.
In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, salt, and ½ cup of shredded coconut.
Pour the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and mix with an electric mixer. If the dough seems too dry, add 1 tablespoon of milk.
Stir in the remaining coconut by hand.
Spray a large baking sheet with nonstick spray (or line with parchment paper). Use an ice cream scooper to scoop cookie dough onto the baking sheet.
Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are set.
Remove from the oven and wait 2-3 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 cookies
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Storage/Reheating

Once cooled, store your Soft and Chewy Coconut Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you’d like to keep them fresh for longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that freshly-baked feel. If you freeze them, let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.

FAQs

1. Can I use unsweetened shredded coconut instead of sweetened?

Yes, you can use unsweetened shredded coconut, but keep in mind that the cookies will be less sweet. You may want to increase the sugar slightly if you use unsweetened coconut.

2. Can I make these cookies without butter?

If you prefer a dairy-free version, you can substitute the unsalted butter with a non-dairy butter alternative or coconut oil for a richer coconut flavor.

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping and baking.

4. Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?

Absolutely! Chocolate chips pair wonderfully with coconut, so feel free to stir some into the dough for a delicious twist on this recipe.

5. Can I use toasted coconut?

Toasting the coconut before adding it to the dough adds a deeper, nuttier flavor to the cookies. It’s optional, but highly recommended for extra flavor.

6. Why is my cookie dough too dry?

If your cookie dough is too dry, add 1 tablespoon of milk at a time to moisten the dough until it’s easy to work with.

7. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may differ slightly from the traditional recipe.

8. How can I make my cookies extra chewy?

To ensure extra chewiness, make sure to not overbake the cookies. Bake them just until the edges are set, and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

9. Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough in scooped portions. Simply place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. You can bake them straight from the freezer—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

10. How do I know when the cookies are done?

The cookies are done when the edges are golden brown, and the center is still soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Conclusion

These Soft and Chewy Coconut Cookies are a perfect combination of sweet, chewy, and slightly crunchy textures, making them a must-try for any coconut lover. With easy-to-find ingredients and a short baking time, this recipe is perfect for satisfying your cookie cravings or impressing guests with minimal effort. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of tea, share them with friends, or simply indulge in a sweet treat on your own, these coconut cookies are sure to be a hit!