Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
- Cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer).
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix!
Step 5: Fold in the Coconut
- Gently fold in the shredded coconut.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls.
- Place on the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
Step 7: Bake
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden. Centers should be soft.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Notes
- Use softened butter for best results.
- Sweetened shredded coconut is recommended, but unsweetened can be used (adjust sugar accordingly).
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. A slice of bread helps keep them soft.
- Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking makes them extra chewy.
- Don’t overbake! Remove when edges are golden.
Variations
Chocolate-Dipped Coconut Chewies
- Dip cooled cookies in melted chocolate.
Lemon Coconut Chewies
- Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest and 1 tablespoon lemon juice to the dough.
Almond Coconut Chewies
- Stir in 1/4 cup chopped almonds and 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional).
Tropical Chewies
- Add 1/4 cup dried pineapple or mango and a dash of rum extract (optional).
Spiced Coconut Chewies
- Add 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon ginger.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Freeze Coconut Chewies?
Yes! Freeze the dough before baking or freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. Add a minute or two to baking time for frozen dough.
Can I Use Unsweetened Coconut?
Yes, but add an extra tablespoon of sugar.
How Should I Store Coconut Chewies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. A slice of bread helps keep them soft. Freeze for longer storage.
Can I Make These Cookies Gluten-Free?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend.
Enjoy your delicious Coconut Chewies!